December 21, 2016
Mahuta to lead Maniapoto claim talks
King country iwi Ngati Maniapoto has named Hauraki Waikato MP Nanaia Mahuta to lead negotiations on settlement of its historic treaty claims.
She will be joined by former Te Ohu Kaimoana chief executive Peter Douglas and Ngati Manuhiri Settlement Trust chief executive Mook Hohneck.
Trust board chair Tiwha Bell says it’s a strong team which represents the broadest cross section of Maniapoto.
He says the negotiators have strong commercial, governance and negotiation experience and are well versed in Maniapoto history and tikanga.
Ms Mahuta says she had discussed her desire to be involved in the settlement of Maniapoto’s claims with Labour Party leadership, and to avoid any real or perceived conflict of interest she has stepped down as Labour’s spokesperson for Treaty of Waitangi Negotiations.
The team will meet with the crown negotiator before Christmas and negotiations proper will begin in the New Year.
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