Hon Parekura Horomia
Minister for Maori Affairs

30 September 2008 Media Statement

Pahauwera Agreement: positive and dynamic phase for Crown-Māori relationships

“Today we achieved a major milestone towards settling the grievances of the past and establishing a lasting framework to manage the interests of Ngāti Pahauwera in the public foreshore and seabed, lands and rivers” Minister of Maori Affairs, Parekura Horomia said today.

The Ngâti Pahauwera Agreement in Principle is the first ever Agreement in Principle to deal with both historical Treaty claims and foreshore and seabed recognition.

Ngâti Pahauwera is a confederation of hapû centred on the Môhaka River in the northern Hawkes Bay.

Attorney-General and Minister in Charge of Treaty of Waitangi Negotiations Hon Dr Michael Cullen signed the Agreement in Principle on behalf of the Crown with representatives of Ngāti Pahauwera this afternoon.

“The Agreement in Principle signed today will provide a platform upon which the Crown and Ngāti Pahauwera can build a positive relationship.”

“Combining both the historical treaty claims and foreshore and seabed claims is an innovative and exciting new approach accelerating the process for providing redress to iwi Maori.”

“I would like to congratulate Ngati Pahauwera, and would like to recognise the hard work all those involved. I wish them well in progressing this journey further,” Mr Horomia said.

ENDS

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