Despite claims by ACT leader David Seymour the Treaty or Waitangi is not a partnership, Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu’s new kaiwhakahaere Justin Tipa says that’s exactly what the South Island iwi thought it was entering into when rangatira signed Te Tiriti at Akaroa, Ōtākou and Ruapuke Island.
He says Waitangi Day is an opportunity to reflect on this partnership and reaffirm the reality of iwi rakatirataka and its recognition in Te Tiriti.
This year the iwi’s annual Waitangi Day commemoration will be held at Te Rau Aroha Marae in Motupōhue -Bluff.
Te Rūnaka o Awarua trustee Dean Whaanga says Kai Tahu tangata whenua are preparing to welcome members of parliament, local government, the local community and whānau from around the takiwā.
