23 December 2003 Media Release

NGATI MANAWA AND NGATI WHARE MAKE PROGRESSIVE STEPS TO ENTER INTO DIRECT NEGOTIATIONS

With their Deeds of Mandate signed in November, both Ngati Manawa and Ngati Whare are now able to concentrate fully on preparing themselves for direct negotiations.  Ngati Manawa and Ngati Whare met with the Office of Treaty Settlements to hold preliminary discussions before they agree on the Terms of Negotiation.

It is expected that Office of Treaty Settlements officials will go on a site visit early 2004.