Maori Party congratulates Patricia Grace

The Māori Party welcomes the Environment Court decision to support Patricia Grace's bid to protect the last remaining tracts of ancestral whenua from being taken for the development of the Kapiti Expressway. The Environment Court decision follows on from the Māori Land Court's decision and supports the whānau position that the land is culturally and historically important.

"Patricia Grace, her whānau and supporters are shining examples of kaitiakitanga in action," says Co-leader of the Māori Party, Tariana Turia.

"It is well-known that Wi Parata Te Kākākura, Patricia's ancestor, had provided land for the local church, the railroad and the Waikanae township as well as making significant contributions to the development of this country. It has been harrowing to have the Transport Authority attempt to seize her land under the auspices of the Public Works act with little to no consultation. This is an amazing win for the Graces, Te Ati Awa, Toa Rangatira, Ngāti Raukawa and the entire country."

"Aggressive government policies have meant that this whānau has only a fragment of lands left by Wi Parata Te Kākākura. While Governments are redressing the immoral and unlawful taking of Māori lands that occurred last century by the Treaty Settlements process - they still continue to take our whenua today. This wasn't right or just when it occurred last century and it is absolutely unacceptable that it is still occurring today," says Māori Party candidate for Te Tai Hauāuru, Chris Mckenzie.

" We urge other whānau, hapū and iwi around the country to stand up to Government authorities using the Public Works Act and other means to take land that is in Maori title. Let's ensure that the pain and heartache that the Grace family have endured is not repeated."

ENDS

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