30 April 2008 Media Statement

CNI proposal set to benefit the region

“The agreement between the Crown and the Central North Island Iwi Collective on using the Crown forest lands to settle historical Treaty claims will bring many benefits to the region. Minister of Maori Affairs, Parekura Horomia said today.

“Iwi in the Collective will receive a major boost to their assets and opportunities for economic development. The package will provide income for the iwi that make up the Collective and jobs for their people. The ability of the iwi in the Collective to protect and promote their culture and values within their rohe and among their people will increase significantly.

“They will also become the owners of 10% of the forest land in the country and significant participants in a major New Zealand industry.

“And the return of such a large amount of land is an event of enormous cultural significance for Maori in the region.

“I would like to congratulate all of the members of the collective, big and small. You have developed a unique partnership that has allowed you to succeed. I believe that you will bring the same spirit of co-operation to the management of your land in the future.”

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