The Rangitāiki River Forum is a co-governance partnership that consists of representatives of the iwi of the Rangitāiki River (presently, Ngāti Manawa, Ngāti Whare, Ngāti Awa and Ngāti Tūwharetoa (BOP)), as well as delegates from the Whakatāne District Council and the Bay of Plenty Regional Council. Provision is also made for other iwi with recognised interests in the Rangitāiki catchment to join the Forum at a future point.

The purpose of the Rangitāiki River Forum is to protect and enhance the environmental, cultural, and spiritual health and wellbeing of the Rangitāiki River and its resources for the benefit of present and future generations.