Ngāti Kahungunu position on hapū and iwi interests in water

Monday, 16 July 2012, 11:25 am
Press Release: Ngati Kahungunu Iwi Inc

Media Release – 16 July 2012

Ngāti Kahungunu position on hapū and iwi interests in water

“Government needs to put its foot on the brakes and not the accelerator, over water rights!”

Ngāti Kahungunu Iwi Incorporated are disappointed that the critical issue of water, and the rights to use water, has been used by the Government as an issue to drive a wedge between hapū and iwi and also between Māori and pakeha.

Ngāti Kahungunu Chairperson Ngahiwi Tomoana says “Ngāti Kahungunu support the right of hapū and iwi to exercise their rangatiratanga, mana and kaitiakitanga over water”.

“Hapū and iwi have a right to engage in a meaningful dialogue with the Crown. Whether they engage through the Waitangi Tribunal or whether they engage directly through the Land and Water Forum”.

“Ngāti Kahungunu has heard first hand Maanu Paul’s concerns on behalf of the New Zealand Māori Council, although the New Zealand Māori Council do not speak for Ngāti Kahungunu but we support their claim.”

“Ngāti Kahungunu through its’ Chair has also been engaged with its Iwi Chair Forum in discussions with Government Ministers over Māori rights to water”.

“There’s a red light flashing in front of the Government’s plans to partially privatise the state owned power companies. They need to put the brakes on and engage with hapū and iwi to determine a way of recognising Māori rights and interests in water before proceeding. These rights will benefit all New Zealanders not just Māori and therefore we have a responsibility to act on behalf of all New Zealanders”.

© Scoop Media