By Adam Ray
Two far north iwi have signed Treaty settlements worth tens of millions of dollars as part of a wider deal, giving Maori a role in managing the famed Ninety Mile Beach.
Treaty Negotiations Minister Chris Finlayson inked a deal with Te Rarawa today, after yesterday signing an agreement with Ngai Takoto.
It comes from a claim first submitted nearly 30 years ago.
Te Rarawa might be a proud far north iwi, but many of its people live in poverty. So today was a chance to settle its Treaty grievance and look forward.
“For over 170 years there have been many opportunities for many people and not so many for us,” says Te Rarawa chairman Haami Piripi.
The iwi will receive $33 million – money it plans to put to good use.
“[It will be used] to reduce the incidence of social deprivation and to provide economic potential to our communities,” says Mr Piripi.
And with the redress came words of regret from the Government.
“The Crown unreservedly apologises to Te Rarawa for not fulfilling our obligations under Te Tiriti,” says Mr Finlayson.
Yesterday, Ngai Takoto also had good reason to give Mr Finlayson a fierce welcome. The iwi lost all of its land in the mid-1800s.
“We have recovered from having nothing to having a substantial amount of return,” says the iwi spokesman.
That return includes land and $21 million. Younger iwi members will be a priority, with seven education scholarships announced. In the past, such resources were unavailable.
The settlement also includes changes to place names. Ninety Mile Beach will now also be called Te Oneroa A Tohe. Far north iwi will join local councils to manage the beach.
For many, the next step will be to settle arguments over customary title.
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