Maniapoto mandate voting results confirmed

Media Statement 11 November 2016

For immediate use

The Maniapoto Māori Trust Board (MMTB) is pleased to announce the result for the Maniapoto Mandating Process. This has been confirmed, with 72% in favour of the MMTB entering into negotiations with Crown, for a comprehensive settlement of all Maniapoto Historical Treaty of Waitangi Claims on behalf of Te Iwi o Maniapoto.

The support and confidence that this result shows is a testament to our Iwi wanting to move forward. Kei a koutou e te Iwi, ngā mihi kau ana ki a koutou mō ōu koutou tautoko mō te anga whakamua.

MMTB Chairman, Tiwha Bell notes that this is just the first step in the mandating phase of the process.

“From here, we will be engaging with submitters on the Mandate Strategy. It is important that we continue to meet with the Iwi throughout this journey as we move forward. We have heard the concerns raised (both at hui and in submissions) and one of our priorities is to continue those kōrero and look at how we will work together through this process. ” The next step also requires submissions that have been put forward to be considered, the completion of the deed of mandate for Ministers to consider, followed by another update to Iwi.

“We are committed to working together with all of Maniapoto me ōna hapū maha. Kotahitanga is key in order to get the best possible outcome. Our tūpuna pushed for unity across the iwi and we hope to fulfil this desire. I personally would like to thank those kaumātua that supported us during the mandate hui, Bob Koroheke, Rore Stafford and John Kaati. “ states Mr Bell.

ends

© Scoop Media