19 October 2011 Media Statement

Port Nicholson Block Settlement Trust welcome consideration to relocate Te Tiriti o Waitangi

Professor Sir Ngatata Love, Chairman of the Port Nicholson Block Settlement Trust representing Taranaki Whānui ki Te Upoko o Te Ika has welcomed the concept of relocating Te Tiriti o Waitangi to a more accessible space within the refurbished National Library. He said “The idea and intent behind the relocation of Te Tiriti o Waitangi is commendable and a move that will surely be welcomed by all”.

“The proposed relocation to the refurbished National Library building in a purpose-built centre will provide increased access to and awareness of Te Tiriti. It will also give Te Tiriti o Waitangi more mana and a higher profile.

“The current location and display of this important founding document of Aotearoa/New Zealand is not well known and can only be accessed weekdays from 9am-5pm. A lot of people I know believe that the original document is held either in the far north or at Te Papa – so opening it to the wider public and letting people know where it is, is also important”, Sir Ngatata concluded.

ends