July 03, 2020
Ngāti Paoa ratification vote confirmed
The crown says it is ready to move forward with a settlement for Ngāti Paoa.
In a letter to the various factions fighting for control of the iwi, Treaty Negotiations Minister Andrew Little and Māori Development Minister Nanaia Mahuta say the results of the ratification process conducted earlier this year show sufficient support from iwi members.
Almost half the 900 voters registered with the Ngāti Paoa Iwi Trust voted, with clear support for the deed of settlement, an alternate offer for land at Point England, and for the transfer of the Waiheke Station farm to trust.
Voters were split on a change in negotiators.
Many supporters of the rival Ngāti Paoa Trust Board boycotted the vote.
The ministers say further progress depends on completion of the election for all positions on the Iwi Trust, which is due to be completed by October 1.
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