23 December 2003 Media Release

TE ARAWA ACHIEVES MANDATING PHASE

On 12 July 2003, Te Arawa began its mandating process seeking hapu and iwi agreement to enter into negotiations with the Crown and elect mandated representatives.

This process was initiated at a number of hui undertaken throughout Te Arawa rohe and in main centres of Aotearoa. From this, 68 Hapu/Iwi representatives were mandated and are formally referred to as Ngai Kaihautu o Te Arawa. This structure appointed a 15 member Council who share the major responsibility of leading and governing the overall negotiations process with the Crown. Rawiri Te Whare will lead this group.

Ngai Kaihautu o Te Arawa submitted their Deed of Mandate to the Crown last week. While there are some matters to address with certain groups, it is understood the Office of Treaty Settlements will work closely with all to forward the approval of Deed of Mandate.

Crown Forestry Rental Trust has formed good working relationships with Te Arawa representatives with further plans to ensure that agreed milestones are achieved.