May 26, 2015
Consultation hui on Maori land law announced
Hon Te Ururoa Flavell
Minita Whanaketanga Maori
Minister for Maori Development
PRESS RELEASE:
Consultation hui on Maori land law announced
Changes that make it easier for Maori land owners to use and develop their whenua will be the focus of discussions at 23 regional consultation hui announced today by Maori Development Minister, Hon Te Ururoa Flavell.
Consultation has taken place throughout the review and proposed reform of Te Ture Whenua Maori. Maori landowners are now being asked to give feedback on the draft Te Ture Whenua Maori Bill to ensure it is workable and reflects their aspirations.
“The reform of Te Ture Whenua Maori is a landmark for Aotearoa New Zealand. It is essential that iwi, hapu and whanau Maori are informed and engaged in this reform,” says Mr Flavell.
“It is the culmination of 40 years of advocacy by Maori for greater tino rangatiratanga over their whenua; whilst ensuring that land is safeguarded and retained as a taonga tuku iho for future generations.”
The review of Te Ture Whenua Maori Act 1993 is part of a Maori land reform programme which also includes offering practical support for Maori land owners. A new $12.8 million Te Ture Whenua Maori Network was announced in the Budget last week. This network will support targeted initiatives to improve the productivity of Maori land over the next four years.
The consultation hui begin next week; Maori land owners can make oral and written submission on the Bill by 3 July 2015.
For a copy of the draft Te Ture Whenua Maori Bill and more details on the consultation hui, go online to www.tpk.govt.nz/te-ture-whenua
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