April 22, 2014
Committee dismisses Tuhoe deal critics
Critics of the Te Urewera-Tuhoe Bill have been told their fears are groundless.
A number of groups made submissions about the bill enacting Ngai Tuhoe’s historic claim settlement, which they argued would deny them their chance to have their own settlements, or involved their traditional land being given to Tuhoe.
Ohiwa Harbour hapu Te Upokorehe, which says it has been included as part of Tuhoe despite coming off a different waka, says it will be made a ghost in its own land.
But parliament’s Maori affairs committee reported the bill back substantially unchanged.
It says Te Upokorehe members who are affiliated to Tuhoe will benefit from the settlement, and still be able to pursue claims as part of Te Upokorehe.
Similarly Wairoa Waikaremoana Maori Trust Board, which represents Ngati Kahungunu interests, will continue to own 28 percent of the lake bed.
Ngati Kahungunu will also be able to seek representation on Te Urewera Board as part of its own settlement.
Similarly, Te Urewera Board is required to provide appropriately for other iwi and hapu who have interests in Te Urewera, such as Ngati Ruapani.
Copyright © 2014, UMA Broadcasting Ltd