Rt Hon Winston Peters

New Zealand First Leader
Member of Parliament for Northland
11 September 2015

Nga Puhi Faces Big Push to Sort Representation

“A concerted effort is required in the interests of the country to get Nga Puhi representation sorted for its Treaty of Waitangi settlement negotiations,” says New Zealand First Leader and Member of Parliament for Northland Rt Hon Winston Peters.

“While the tribunal was severely critical of the process of mandate to decide representation, it believes a remedy is possible.

“The advice of the tribunal cannot be ignored and just invites illegal disruptions like the one this week at Kaitaia Airport, something Minister for Treaty of Waitangi Negotiations Chris Finlayson must note.

“If unresolved there is a danger that the Nga Puhi claim could be split into two, or more, and settlement delayed again.

“The tribunal recognises there is broad support for the Nga Puhi settlement and recommends the Crown stop negotiations with the Tuhoronuku Independent Mandated Authority so Nga Puhi can address the issues.

“There will need to be comprehensive discussions and agreement now before the claim can once again move forward,” says Mr Peters.

ENDS

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