Te Aupouri iwi became the first far north iwi to sign a Treaty of Waitangi settlement today, 26 years after the claim was lodged.
The Te Aupouri Deed of Settlement was signed at Potahi Marae in Te Kao, 46km southwest of Cape Reinga.
The Crown was represented by Treaty of Waitangi Negotiations Minister Christopher Finlayson and Maori Affairs Minister Pita Sharples.
The settlement, which provides $21.4 million in compensation from the Crown, was supported by 95.61 per cent of Te Aupouri people who participated in the settlement ratification process.
"This is a significant milestone to right the wrongs of the past in one of the most deprived areas of New Zealand," Mr Finlayson said.
"This settlement will provide Te Aupouri and the people of Northland with a strong forward-looking foundation for economic and social development."
Te Aupouri is one of five iwi based in the Northland region, which encompasses Ninety Mile Beach, and has about 9300 members.
The settlement includes an apology from the Crown.
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