September 08, 2015
Ngati Kahu protest neighbours’ settlement
A group from Ngati Kahu is attempting to occupy Kaitaia Airport.
Spokesperson Wikatana Popata says it’s a protest against a bill settling the claims of the other far north iwi.
Parliament will hold an extended sitting tomorrow morning to pass the bill, which covers Ngati Kuri, Ngai Takoto, Te Aupouri and Te Rarawa.
Mr Popata says the airport land was stolen in the 1940s from Ngai Takoto and Ngati Kahu.
"The crown claimed to us and Ngai Takoto if Ngati Kahu doesn't sign in full and final they'll give all the land up to Rangianiwaniwa to Ngai Takoto. Which is just the same old crown tactics to divide us and rule us," Mr Popata says.
Ngai Takoto chair Rangitane Marsden says the action is mischief making by Ngati Kahu Runanga chair Margaret Mutu, who has refused to settle and tried to block the settlements of the other Muriwhenua iwi.
He says Ngai Takoto accepted the Rangianiwaniwa land on behalf of its original owners, and it is holding Ngati Kahu’s half share in trust until its claim is settled.
Mr Marsden says it’s important for the region that the airport continues to operate.
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