Te Rūnanga-Ā-Iwi O Ngāpuhi, Fit for Purpose

The Board of Trustees for Te Rūnanga-Ā-Iwi O Ngāpuhi (the Rūnanga) are resolute they are fit for purpose to lead Ngāpuhi. The Board has seen growth in its assets from $53M in 2016 to $56M in 2017. This is without a Te Tiriti o Waitangi Land Claims Settlement.

Said Rūnanga Chairman, Raniera Tau, “at our June 2018 meeting, the board welcomed a delegation from the same group. They were offered an opportunity to share their concerns before the board.

The Board acknowledge that peaceful protest is a vital part of a democratic society. However, there is a balance needed between the right to protest and the right to go about ones’ lawful business without disruption to one’s place of work.

We are aware that some want a change of leadership. There is a democratic, open and transparent process to enable that, as outlined in the our Trust Deed. Anyone of Ngāpuhi descent may put their names forward for consideration.

On the issue of Hapū Rangatiratanga, it is not the business of the Board to determine ones rangatiratanga. That is entirely in the hands of individual hapū and how they exercise or recognise this phenomenon.

On the topic of settlement and future entities, the Rūnanga has made it widely known that we will be offering a PSGE option. Ngāpuhi will be consulted, and ultimately make the final decision to ratify or otherwise. To not offer an option to Ngāpuhi is an abdication and failure to fulfill our responsibilities.

The decision to host the board meeting at an alternative venue is based on the business at hand. It is an unhelpful assumption that the meeting is being held elsewhere for any other reason, but understandable nevertheless."

Said Rūnanga CEO, Lorraine Toki, “there is growing momentum, activity and optimism throughout Ngāpuhi as Ngāpuhi engage in discussions with the government. We have an exciting opportunity to make positive changes for all Ngāpuhi, including hapū, urban, tai tamariki and kaumātua kuia. The Rūnanga is as committed today to the growth and development of Ngāpuhi, as it was when first established in 1989.”

Ends.

© Scoop Media