MEDIA RELEASE
4 Sep 2009
For Immediate Distribution

Government misses opportunity to develop a true bicultural partnership

There were no surprises for Hauraki in today’s release of the select committee report on the new Auckland Council.

Hauraki Maori Trust Board Chairman, Toko Renata Te Taniwha said
“ It’s a pity the government hasn’t cottoned on to the idea that having Maori at the decision making table will lead to improved outcomes for Maori, Auckland and New Zealand.”

“We are disappointed that the Government has missed the opportunity to lead the way in developing a true bicultural partnership.”

“Under Te Tiriti, Maori could argue for equal representation at all levels of governance in Aotearoa, not just 2 or 3 seats on a 20-25 seat Auckland council. The Select Committee and the Government are offering us nothing in Auckland but continued marginalisation as ‘just another minority’ on our own land.

“Maori generously gave most of the land that is now known as Auckland so that Pakeha could settle here. Our blood, sweat and tears lie in the soil, alongside Pakeha blood, sweat and tears.
“We should also be sitting alongside Pakeha at the council table.”

The Chairman expressed disappointment that Hauraki Maori Trust Board concerns over proposed southern boundary changes have been ignored. He said “Areas in which Hauraki have significant interest are being given to the Waikato rather than Hauraki. This adds to the feeling that genuine Maori concerns are being misheard.”

Hauraki will now take time to look over the full implications of the select committee report.

ENDS

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