November 16, 2004

Iwi Work Together To Provide Services For Maori

Two Tauranga Iwi are working together to provide health, disability, social, educational and other related services for Maori.

Ngati Ranginui Iwi Society and Ngaiterangi Iwi Society will sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) this Wednesday, November 17, to officialise their partnership.

Brian Dickson CEO of Ngaiterangi says the official document recognises the growing collaboration between the two Iwi in these changing times.

"An inter Iwi collaborative approach will enhance the wellbeing of our people. It's what both Iwi have been working toward for many years so it makes sense to join our efforts, resources and skills to work for the one cause, whilst at the same time each Iwi will maintain its own rangatiratanga."

Through the MOU, the Iwi will also enter into joint venture contracting relationships with Government and other private funding agencies.

Ngati Ranginui CEO Barbara Anderson says the two Iwi have already worked together in the past and it made sense to formalise the arrangement.

"The relationship between our Iwi aims to deliver the most appropriate programmes to see the best outcome for people within the rohe (area)."

The official MOU signing will take place at 10am on Wednesday at the Mount Maunganui Surf Club. Visitors are welcome. A powhiri will begin the proceedings, followed by a brief explanation of the MOU contents before the signing of the official document.

ENDS

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