Tue, 27 Aug 2002
Te Manawa Signs Agreement With Tangata Whenua
The relationship between Te Manawa and Tangata Whenua entered a new phase recently when both parties signed an agreement
outlining a formal process for any consultation between the museum and local iwi.
The agreement, known as the Te Rangimarie Document, provides a format for Te Manawa and Tangata Whenua within the
museum's catchment district to work together. A unique feature of the agreement is the continuance of the relationship
begun in the 1860s by Te Peeti Te Awe Awe and Hoani Meihana, between Rangitane and non-Maori in Manawatu.
Paul O'Brien, Chairperson of the Te Manawa Museums Trust, says, "The relationship between the museum and Tangata Whenua
has always been strong - the museum is the custodian of important taonga belonging to Rangitane and other local iwi -
this new agreement formalises that relationship and provides guidelines for all future consultation."
The signing of the document was the culmination of a consultation project facilitated by Grant Huwyler and funded by Te
Papa's National Services unit.
ENDS
For more information contact Te Manawa Director Julie Catchpole on 06 355 5000.