This presentation outlines two Indigenous based management approaches for freshwater eels (tuna) in Waikato, New Zealand. Waikato-Tainui are the Indigenous Maaori tribe (iwi) from the Waikato region of New Zealand and freshwater eels are a significant taonga (treasured) species. Firstly, Waikato-Tainui were empowered through the Waikato-Tainui Waikato Raupatu River Settlement Act (2010) to create Fisheries Regulations and Bylaws in their tribal area of interest - the first set of Waikato-Tainui bylaws developed to protect eels will be presented; the second approach involves practical on the ground restoration projects including the creation of habitats (eg. Tuna ponds) and other initiatives - some examples of Indigenous restoration initiatives will also be presented.