March 12, 2020
Ahuriri settlement back on track
Seven small Napier hapū are on track to receiving redress for the loss of their lands with parliament yesterday giving the Ahuriri Hapū Claims Settlement Bill it's first reading.
A deed of settlement was signed nearly four years ago but progress was delayed because one hapū, Ngāti Pārau, objected to the way trustees were elected to the negotiating body, Mana Ahuriri Trust.
The trust has agreed to hold fresh elections before the bill is enacted.
Treaty of Waitangi Negotiations Minister Andrew Little says the settlement lays the foundation for a stronger economic and cultural future for the generations of Ahuriri hapū to come.
The settlement includes a Crown apology, $19.5 million in financial and commercial redress including the right to buy shares in the Kaweka and Gwavas crown forest land.
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