A world-first relationship agreement between the Whanganui District Council and Ngā Hapū o Whanganui is currently open for public consultation.
The agreement, Te Tomokanga ki Te Matapihi, will be considered by councillors at a meeting on February 13, with public drop-in information sessions being held today at Rotokawau Virginia Lake and Castlecliff Community Hub.
The draft agreement outlines the council’s responsibilities to the hapū post-settlement, following a 2018 commitment by the council to walk alongside Whanganui hapū and iwi in support of their Treaty land settlement negotiations.
Included in the draft are options for transferring or co-managing significant lands and lakes owned by the council within the settlement area, including Queen’s Park, Lake Wiritoa, and Kai Iwi Beach.
Mayor Andrew Tripe says the settlement process has moved faster than expected, allowing for public engagement ahead of the decision.
Iwi leader Ken Mair says the agreement sets a foundation for collaboration to benefit all, encouraging everyone to get involved.
The consultation period ends on Sunday.
