August 07, 2017
Scene set for Maori Arts Institute return
Maori Development Minister Te Ururoa Flavell has signed an agreement committing the crown to hand over the New Zealand Maori Arts and Craft Institute to Rotorua iwi and hapu.
Mr Flavell says the deal will strengthen the relationship between the Crown and Wahiao Tuhourangi and Ngati Whakaue, who have been instrumental in the operation and success of Te Puia and the institute in training carvers, weavers and sculptors.
The institute is undergoing a $22 million redevelopment.
Legislation will be introduced to vest the institute in a limited partnership whose beneficiaries are Wahiao Tuhourangi o Whakarewarewa, three hapu of Ngati Whakaue as well as the beneficiaries of the Pukeroa Oruawhata Trust.
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