Media Release April 8 2009

Te Runanga o Ngati Whatua says further discussions with all Maori representative organisations in the Tamaki Makaurau (Auckland) region are critical before a clear picture can emerge for the future governance of the region.

Runanga Chair, Naida Glavish, says the axing of the proposed Maori seats for the new Auckland Super City at face value does not look good, but she says there are much wider issues regarding Maori representation in the region.

“Local government representation is just one small part of ensuring a true partnership and voice for mana whenua in the region. We must develop robust structures for partnership that enable meaningful input to all decision making across the region with both central and local government.”

She says Ngati Whatua already has agreements in place with the existing councils in the Auckland region and the progress made to date with representation should not be lost sight of.

Te Runanga o Ngati Whatua represents the tribal area for more than 30 Ngati Whatua marae from Auckland City through the Kaipara, Otamatea Whangarei and Dargaville districts.

The Runanga recently signed a Deed of Mandate with the Crown to proceed with negotiations to settle a Ngati Whatua iwi treaty claim across the rohe.

Naida Glavish says significant involvement for Ngati Whatua and other iwi in managing the physical resources and social needs of the Auckland region is going to be critical for the region to thrive economically.

“The era of token toothless consultation for Maori is over. Through the local government restructure and treaty claim process, we must ensure inclusion that has weight; democratically, legally and publicly to uplift the mana of Maori to contribute with dignity to the future of the region.”

ENDS

© Scoop Media