23 June 2015

Ngati Ranginui Look to the Future Post Rena Incident

After three years of intense engagement Ngati Ranginui Iwi Society Inc last week signed an agreement with the owner of the MV Rena. The agreement signals the Iwi decision to acknowledge the Rena incident and its impact on Tauranga Moana but heralds a significant decision to move on in light of the latest evidence from the reef.

The Ngati Ranginui Board has reviewed all options and agreed that not pursing action through the upcoming hearing is the best option in a difficult situation. Ngati Ranginui Chairman Tawharangi Nuku says: “The decision has been a tough one but the important focus is now for the iwi to prepare ourselves to deal with other environmental and resource management issues in the future”.

“We are aware of the immense difficulties associated with further work on the reef, and the iwi do not wish to put any lives at risk, nor do we wish to put at further risk the environment which could occur if any additional removal works were undertaken.”

“Ngati Ranginui respects the rights of other iwi to make their own decisions and do what is right for them. However, we believe it is time to forgive, to learn from this incident and to move on with our relationship with the owner,” says Mr Nuku.

Nr Nuku acknowledges the significant personal and professional strain that the negotiations have placed on both iwi and key individuals in the process, and thanks all those involved for their leadership and commitment to ensuring a long term outcome that takes into account all aspects of this complex situation.

“I wish to acknowledge the owner’s representative, Mr Konstantinos Zacharatos, and his team and reflect that the meeting we held last week was an opportunity for both parties to reflect on the past years and to secure a constructive pathway forward.”

ENDS

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