Maori Party congratulates Tuwharetoa chief on Prestigious International Appointment
Tariana Turia, Co-leader, Maori Party
18 July 2006

"We are extremely proud to learn that Tuwharetoa paramount chief, Ariki Tumu te Heuheu, has been appointed chairperson of the United Nations' World Heritage Committee" said Tariana Turia, Co-leader of the Maori Party.

"We congratulate Tumu, and indeed Tuwharetoa, and wish him well in his important work, in creating innovative solutions to enduring environmental issues".

"This is an outstanding achievement for Tuwharetoa and the nation as a whole" said Mrs Turia. "Tumu has been well known to the World Heritage Committee since the recognition of Tongariro National Park on the World Heritage list in 1993".

"It is a great honour for tangata whenua that the main UNESCO entity in charge of the conservation and preservation of natural and cultural sites, has recognised the considerable skills and indigenous expertise that Tumu brings to this area".

ENDS

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