11 September 2012

HBRC welcomes Ngai Tuhoe settlement

Hawke’s Bay Regional Council Chairman Fenton Wilson has welcomed news that Te Kotahi a Tuhoe has accepted the Crown’s offer to settle the historical claims of Ngai Tuhoe.

The announcement was made by Treaty of Waitangi Negotiations Minister, Christopher Finlayson and Ngai Tuhoe Chief Negotiator Tamati Kruger. The parties will now work together to develop a Deed of Settlement by the end of 2012.

Fenton Wilson says the settlement is a pragmatic result, which bodes well for the future of the far north of Hawke’s Bay.

“There has been a really sensible approach to the issues which has produced a viable outcome that will stand the test of time,” says Chairman Wilson.

Part of the settlement will include establishing a new legal identity through legislation for the land in the current Te Urewera National Park. It will be governed by the Crown and Ngai Tuhoe nominees acting on its behalf.

Fenton Wilson says this creates an opportunity to focus on access to the area.

“It also ensures the continuation of the ongoing recreational and spiritual relationship with Te Urewera, one of the truly beautiful parts of New Zealand, and the gateway from the north to the Hawke’s Bay region.”

ENDS

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