Aquaculture settlement good for all

Aquaculture settlement good for all

Media Statement

7 October 2008

Te Ohu Kaimoana, the Maori Fisheries Trust, said today it was both pleasing and a relief that the Crown had reached an aquaculture settlement with Maori.

Te Ohu Kaimoana Chairman, Archie Taiaroa, said he was pleased to see iwi working together to get a good result from all the effort they have put in over many years.

The Agreement in Principle is for a one-off cash payment of $97 million in full and final settlement of the current Crown obligations for "pre-commencement space" or aquaculture space that was approved between 21 September 1992 and 31 December 2004 under the previous marine farming regime.

This agreement in principle covers the vast majority of New Zealand's aquaculture development areas including the Marlborough Sounds, Tasman Bay, and Hauraki Gulf along with the rest of the South Island.

The agreement was reached between Fisheries Minister Jim Anderton, Treaty Negotiations Minister Michael Cullen, Maori Affairs Minister Parekura Horomia and leaders representing the iwi of Hauraki, Ngati Apa ki Te Ra To, Ngati Koata, Ngati Kuia, Ngati Rarua, Ngai Tahu, Ngati Tama, Ngati Toa, Rangitane and Te Ati Awa (Te Tau Ihu).

Te Ohu Kaimoana CEO, Peter Douglas, said aquaculture was an import component in both fisheries and commerce for Maori for the future.

"Instead of frustrating everyone; this settlement provides opportunity and encouragement," Mr Douglas said.

ENDS

© Scoop Media