STATEMENT FROM THE CHAIRMAN OF TŪHORONUKU INDEPENDENT MANDATED AUTHORITY, HONE SADLER

9 October 2015

The importance of unity within the Tūhoronuku Independent Mandated Authority is paramount.

While the last three months have not been easy for us, I believe that all trustees are committed to the same fundamental goals of unity for Ngāpuhi and a fair and durable settlement of our historical claims under Te Tiriti o Waitangi. Furthermore, by openly and robustly addressing matters, I believe Kara George and I will be able to maintain and grow the support of our fellow trustees to ensure we work in a cohesive manner.

Obviously, the unauthorised release of information is not helpful and is a matter that we will deal with in due course.

It was necessary to utilise alternative funding to support this process to this point. From here, Tūhoronuku IMA has resolved not to utilise further Rūnanga funding but to work within the confirmed funding from the Crown. However, we now expect the Crown and the Crown Forestry Rentals Trust to be pro-active, consistent and align their funding strategies to prevent funding vacuums that impact on our cash flows, as has happened over the past year.

That our iwi authority has been generous of spirit during difficult times is an understatement. In fact, except for a few, Ngāpuhi have been very patient with this process and we will continue in an open and transparent manner as we have always done.

ENDS

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