FOMA begins survey on Te Ture Whenua Māori reform

MEDIA STATEMENT

8 August 2014

The Federation of Māori Authorities (FOMA) has today launched an online survey for its members to seek their views on the proposed changes to Te Ture Whenua Māori Act 1993, and to gain further understanding of what resources are needed to improve Māori land productivity.

Chief executive Te Horipo Karaitiana said the survey was an important opportunity to hear first-hand from the people on the ground.

“FOMA wants to make sure that the Government is getting a clear picture of what is happening with Māori land and to hear from the trusts and incorporations who will be impacted by changes to Te Ture Whenua Māori (‘TTWM’).

“There is huge opportunity in the Māori agribusiness sector but we need to ensure that new legislation provides a structure that allows for the optimisation of Māori land,” said Mr Karaitiana.

“FOMA will support the reform of TTWM, so long as it leads to better outcomes for our members and the whole Māori agribusiness sector.”

FOMA has been encouraged by the number Māori land owners who have attended the six hui so far. The Government roadshow is being led by Te Puni Kokiri and will travel around the country over the next two weeks.

“It’s good to see that Māori land owners are taking a real interest in these hui, as they will all be impacted one way or another by the changes,” said Mr Karaitiana.

“Our survey will help bring the voice of Māori land entities into this discussion.”

FOMA will provide updates to its members through its website www.federation.maori.nz and will discuss the proposed changes at its National Conference in September.

ENDS

© Scoop Media