A significant milestone reached.

On Monday 15th of December Te Whakaaetanga Trust formally signed the Terms of Negotiations (ToN) with the Crown, marking yet another historic moment for Ngā Hapū o Te Whakaaetanga — Ngāti Kuta Ko Patukeha Ko Ngāti Torehina ki Matakā me Ngāti Manu me ngā Hapū Ririki o Te Uri Karaka, o Te Uri o Raewera. This milestone confirms that the Trust is now officially at the negotiating table, advancing the kaupapa under the guiding principle of Hapū Rangatiratanga.

This step forward represents the culmination of years of whakaaro, kōrero, research, planning, and commitment by whānau, hapū, and tūpuna across generations. It is both a moment of celebration and reflection, a recognition of the resilience, unity, and persistence that has carried this kaupapa to this point.

“This milestone belongs to all of us,” said Herb Rihari, (Te Whakaaetanga Trust Chair]. “It reflects the determination and vision of our hapū, our kaumātua, and our tūpuna who dreamed of a future of prosperity and whanaungatanga. Signing the Terms of Negotiations is not the destination, it’s the beginning of a new chapter in our collective journey toward justice, restoration, and unity.”

The signing of the Terms of Negotiations confirms that:

The Crown formally recognises Te Whakaaetanga Trust as the authorised body to negotiate on behalf of participating hapū; and

The kaupapa now moves from preparation into formal settlement negotiations.

This does not signal an end, but rather the start of a new phase, one that will continue to centre hapū voices, uphold mana motuhake, and ensure that the integrity of the process is guided by our mātāpono and tikanga.

Throughout this process, Te Whakaaetanga Trust has remained clear that hapū are the source of authority — the Trust is the waka that carries out the technical and legal responsibilities of this journey, not the navigator.

“Our role is to serve, and uphold hapūtanga,” said Herb Rihari

“The direction and strength come from our hapū. Te Whakaaetanga Trust exists to do the mahi on their behalf, grounded in transparency, accountability, and whanaungatanga.”

As negotiations progress, Te Whakaaetanga Trust and Ngā Hapū Te Whakaaetanga will continue to:

Keep whānau informed through regular pānui and online updates Create opportunities for hapū engagement and feedback

Ensure the process remains inclusive, transparent, and reflective of collective aspirations

The Trust extends heartfelt thanks to all whānau and hapū who have contributed to this kaupapa — through hui, research, wānanga, and support over many years.

“We acknowledge those who are no longer with us, the ones who carried the flame through the hardest times. Their legacy guides us. This is only the beginning.”

About Te Whakaaetanga Trust

Te Whakaaetanga Trust was established to progress Treaty settlement negotiations on behalf of participating hapū within Ngāpuhi. The Trust operates under the principle of Hapū Rangatiratanga, ensuring that hapū retain the mana, direction, and ownership of the settlement process.

Through this next phase of negotiations, Te Whakaaetanga Trust reaffirms its commitment to working collaboratively with all hapū of Ngāpuhi to achieve durable, mana-enhancing outcomes for future generations.

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