Important Facts of the News
- The Crown has signed an agreement in principle with Mōkai Pātea to settle their historical Treaty of Waitangi claims.
- Mōkai Pātea first lodged their claims over 30 years ago.
- The proposed redress package is valued at NZD 55 million.
- Twenty culturally significant sites will be returned to Mōkai Pātea.
- The settlement framework will support long-term economic and social development.
- Mōkai Pātea represents four iwi: Ngāi Te Ohuake, Ngāti Hauiti, Ngāti Tamakōpiri, and Ngāti Whitikaupeka.
- The Crown acknowledged that the hapū and iwi are virtually landless, with much of their land locked and inaccessible.
- The Mōkai Pātea area of interest extends from Mount Ruapehu’s southeastern slopes to the Ruahine Ranges and Marton.
- Negotiations for a full deed of settlement will follow soon.
- The agreement was signed under the supervision of Treaty of Waitangi Negotiations Minister Paul Goldsmith.
Major Step in New Zealand’s Treaty Settlement Process
New Zealand has reached a pivotal stage in addressing historical injustices, with the Crown signing an agreement in principle with Mōkai Pātea to resolve their longstanding Treaty of Waitangi claims. The agreement marks a crucial step toward reconciliation and recognition for the iwi and hapū, who first filed their claims more than three decades ago.
Redress Package and Future Settlement Path
The settlement package, valued at NZD 55 million, is designed to create a sustainable base for Mōkai Pātea’s economic and social growth. Along with financial compensation, the Crown will return 20 sites of deep cultural significance to the confederation. The agreement outlines the foundation for a comprehensive final settlement, the finer details of which are expected to be negotiated in the coming months.
Crown’s Acknowledgement of Historical Impacts
The government has acknowledged the long-lasting effects of past actions that left the Mōkai Pātea iwi and hapū largely without land. Many of the few remaining parcels are reportedly landlocked and inaccessible. The Crown recognised that the community’s sacrifices have contributed to the nation’s development and expressed a commitment to address the resulting grievances through fair redress.
About Mōkai Pātea and Its Region
Mōkai Pātea represents a confederation of four iwi: Ngāi Te Ohuake, Ngāti Hauiti, Ngāti Tamakōpiri, and Ngāti Whitikaupeka. Their traditional lands span from the southeastern slopes of Mount Ruapehu to the Ruahine Ranges and the township of Marton. The settlement seeks not only to restore lands and resources but also to strengthen the cultural and economic resilience of these communities.
Next Steps in the Settlement Journey
Following this agreement in principle, both parties will move towards drafting and finalising a comprehensive deed of settlement. Once completed, it will formalise the commitments and ensure that Mōkai Pātea can begin rebuilding its land base, economy, and social infrastructure on a lasting foundation.