New Zealand Maori Council Media Statement

Maori Freshwater and Geothermal Claims Crystal Clear

“Maori interests in national freshwater and geothermal resources will be crystal clear when Maori and specialist experts present their evidence to the Waitangi Tribunal hearing,” say New Zealand Maori Council co-chairs Sir Edward Taihakurei Durie and Maanu Paul.

The National Freshwater and Geothermal Resources claim brought by the Council will be heard by the Waitangi Tribunal at Waiwhetu Marae in Lower Hutt starting at 9am on Monday, 9 July 2012.

“The claim sets out what interests Maori had and continue to have in springs, rivers, lakes, aquifers, waterways and geothermal resources,” said Sir Edward.

“The Council became concerned when Government announced its intention to sell off some of its assets without full consideration of the impact on Maori interests in water resources,” added Mr Paul. “The NZMC has a statutory responsibility to advise Government on behalf of all Maori.”

Maori from throughout country will present their evidence to the Tribunal on Monday. An impressive team of local and international experts will be giving their evidence on Tuesday and Wednesday.

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