AUCKLAND CITY COUNCIL

MEDIA RELEASE

9 June 2006

Embargoed until 4.15pm, 9 June 2006

Council supports Treaty settlement

In a unanimous decision, Auckland City councillors last night adopted the recommendations of the Treaty Settlements Working Party on the Ngati Whatua o Orakei’s treaty settlement.

Mayor of Auckland city Dick Hubbard said, although the council is not a partner to the treaty settlement process, Auckland City was very involved in the negotiations, particularly relating to the joint management of the reserves.

“I believe the council’s decision to support the negotiated recommendations will lead to a positive future together,” said Mr Hubbard.

The council has agreed to jointly manage Maungawhau/Mt Eden, Maungakiekie/One Tree Hill and the Purewa Stewardship area with Ngati Whatua o Orakei.

“The joint management system will continue to build our strong relationship with Ngati Whatua o Orakei,” said Mr Hubbard.

“The settlement will guarantee continued public access to these sites. These iconic landmarks which are dear to all Aucklanders will remain a place to be shared and enjoyed by us all,” said Mr Hubbard.

When the Treaty Settlements Working Party report was submitted to council on 18 May 2006, Ngati Whatua o Orakei and the Office of Treaty Settlements were still discussing possible redress over Puketapapa/Mt Roskill. The council will therefore need to consider the details around Puketapapa/Mt Roskill in parallel with the next steps of the process. This has begun with the ‘Agreement in Principle’ process which will work through the details of the settlement including the drafting of a Deed of Settlement.

The Deed of Settlement will be presented to Ngati Whatua o Orakei’s hapu for ratification. If ratified, settlement legislation will be drafted and put before parliament.

ENDS

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