Media release – for immediate release – 17 April 2012
Minister Backs Counterfeit Claimants

The Minister of Treaty Negotiations is continuing to support Tanenuiarangi Manawatu Incorporated (TMI) in the settlement of a Rangitane claim – despite being continually advised they do not have a robust or enduring mandate to do so.

TMI in Palmerston North has received millions of dollars from the Crown on behalf of Rangitane, despite not being entitled to it.

Members of Ko te Pou Marangatahi o Rangitane ki Manawatu say, "Rangitane whakapapa is being re-written and distorted, as TMI has inserted a hapu (Ngāti Tauira) that rightfully belongs to another Iwi (Ngāti Apa) into our whakapapa, claiming they are Rangitane. Members from Ngāti Apa also support our position”.

Adrian Rurawhe, former Chair for Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Apa says ”We are very annoyed that TMI continue to include our hapu in their negotiations.” Mr. Rurawhe goes on to say, “I encourage those who are of Ngāti Tauira descent at TMI, to return home to Parewānui, and to leave the people of Rangitane to negotiate their own Settlement.”

The Honourable Minister Tariana Turia, Māori party MP for Te Tai Hauāuru called a hui in January this year in order to listen to the concerns of ngā uri o Rangitane ki Manawatu (the descendants of Rangitane from the Manawatu).

Tribal members told the MP they had a number of outstanding significant issues with the Crown and Tanenuiarangi Manawatu Incorporated (TMI’s) proposed settlement deal on their behalf.

Turia also of Ngāti Apa descent has concerns with TMI’s claim on behalf of Rangitane and has discussed this with Minister Chris Finlayson. However, the Minister still wishes to initial the settlement deed with TMI.

“Māori and pākeha voters already disgruntled by treaty settlements will not take kindly to the government giving money away to imposters,” members of Ko te Pou Marangatahi o Rangitane ki Manawatu say.

ENDS

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