14 June 2018

Ministerial Inquiry of Whakatōhea Māori Trust Board to proceed

In response to a request by Ngāti Ira hapu representatives Amber Rakuraku and Robyn Hata-Gage for a Ministerial Inquiry and 2017 Election Review of the Whakatōhea Māori Trust Board, the Minister of Maori Development, Honourable Nanaia Mahuta, has confirmed the appointment of Michael Heron QC to carry out an investigation into the affairs of the Board.

The initial request was lodged with the Minister’s Office in December 2017 supported by fellow Trust Board represenatitives Tracy Hillier (Ngai Tamahaua) Gaylene Kohunui (Te Upokorehe) and Maora Edwards (Te Upokorehe).

We look forward to working collaboratively with Michael Heron QC, all Board members and the executive team in order to address and resolve the concerns raised with Minister Mahuta.

Inquiries should be directed to respective hapu representatives appointed to the Whakatōhea Māori Trust Board.

ends