Omaka hui results in greater support for Te Ope Mana a Tai

Hui organiser John Mitchell says comments from the Prime Minister that the Omaka hui was non-representative are incorrect.

“Its an old tactic. When you don’t like the message you try to destroy the messenger. Iwi leaders from around the country including the paramount chief of Tuwharetoa and other national figures travelled far and wide to attend this important hui. There was a rare show of unity.”

All the participants rejected the Government’s proposal on the foreshore and seabed and supported the principles for engagement that have been developed by Te Ope Mana a Tai.

Iwi from Muriwhenua, Hauraki, Taranaki, Rongomawahine, Ngai Tamanuhiri, Ngati Raukawa, Muaupoko, Waikato, Whanganui, Ngati Kahungunu and Mataatua all agreed to become active members of Te Ope Mana a Tai.

With an expanded membership, Te Ope Mana a Tai has the potential to have a significant influence on shaping Government policies and legislation that impact on the coastal marine environment. It will continue to seek a broader base of support from hapu and Iwi over the next few months.

John Mitchell says the Government could have avoided the potential for a huge range of grievances if it had bothered to work with Iwi in the first place.

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