A Bay of Plenty sub-tribe is confident an expanding Port of Tauranga will uphold its promises to care for the harbour.
Conservation Minister Nick Smith has given the go-ahead for shipping channels to be widened and deepened for bigger vessels with larger loads.
Conditions of the consent require restoration of the pipi beds, creation of an artificial reef and careful placement of the dredged sand.
The Ngati Ruahine hapu says it is neither for nor against dredging - it just wants the kaimoana and environment to be protected.
Deputy chair Irene Ruka said she has nothing but praise for the port.
She said the chief executive and the staff of the Port of Tauranga have integrity and they're transparent.
Ms Ruka said they have acted in the best interests of their shareholders - while her trust board has looked after the interests of its people.
She said the port has appointed a cultural advisor to regularly talk to her hapu about the effects of dredging.