9 September 2008 Media Statement

Five New Appointees To The Tribunals Membership

The respective 3-year appointments of Dr Richard Hill, Dr Aroha Harris, Basil Morrison, Tania Simpson and Professor William Te Rangiua (Pou) Temara to the Waitangi Tribunal are very welcome, says Minister of Māori Affairs. Parekura Horomia.

All five appointees are new additions to the Tribunal’s membership.

“They will prove to be great additions the Tribunal’s already impressive skill base,” says Parekura Horomia. “Collectively, these appointees bring a wide range of valuable knowledge and experience in areas critical to the Tribunal’s operation.”

Historians Dr Richard Hill of the Stout Centre and Dr Aroha Harris of the University of Auckland bring invaluable research expertise to the Tribunal, which will support its inquiries into historical claims. In addition to his current position as Professor in New Zealand studies, Dr Hill has also been Director of the Stout Centre’s prominent Treaty of Waitangi Research Unit for the past decade. Furthermore, Dr Harris will also bring her extensive and valuable public policy experience to the Tribunal.

Appointees Basil Morrison and Tania Simpson bring extensive expertise in the areas of environmental management and planning, areas which will no doubt remain crucial to the operation of the Tribunal. Furthermore, Basil Morrison brings over 35 years experience in local government and community organisations, and has extensive public policy expertise. In addition, Tania Simpson also brings substantial public policy experience.

The Tribunal will also gain invaluable kaumātua and tikanga Māori support from Professor William Te Rangiua (Pou) Temara. Pou Temara is Professor in Te Reo and Tikanga at Waikato University, and is a recognised exponent of the art of whaikōrero (oratory) and mau rākau (Māori weapons handling). Furthermore, Professor Temara has experience in Tribunal matters, having delivered briefs of evidence on behalf of claimants in the past. His excellence in these areas will prove critical in sustaining the Tribunal’s relationship with claimant groups.

“I offer my sincere congratulations to each of the members on their respective appointments. I have utmost confidence that they will prove invaluable to the operation of the Tribunal” Mr Horomia says.

ends

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