Pioneer Treaty settlement efforts acknowledged

The mammoth efforts behind the first Waitangi Tribunal claims have been celebrated 25 years to the exact date and place.

Thursday August 21 marked 25 years to the day since the Waitangi Tribunal began the country’s first evidence hearing, with Ngāti Rārua’s claims at the Wesley Centre.

Then chair of the Ngāti Rārua Iwi Trust, Molly Luke, said the hearings were a significant day as part of a long and complex process undertaken by many.

“Our office was established in 1995, and we researched over 160 years of treaty breaches, partially funded by the Crown Foresty Rental Trust - it was such intense and important work.

“We have lost so many kaumatua since then who shared their experiences and knowledge, because their legacy of tireless mahi to share our history and our losses helped uphold our mana.”

The starting a four-year process to hear claims from Ngā Iwi o Te Tauihu and a further three years to release a report upholding the claims before signing a Deed of Settlement with the Crown in 2013.

Board member Anaru Luke reflected on his memories of having older family members tell him to be alert and listening in meetings by his aunty Molly.

“The whakapapa of today’s celebration ranges back to 1992, when I was a young one at the time being told to come to this important hui which set up the Settlement Trust.

“Now having my youngest son here today shows how generational the settlements are and shows the importance of this which he can carry on.”

Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Rārua Pouwhakahaere Shane Graham said the future focus of Ngāti Rārua is grounded in the past.

“The Ohaki of Te Tana Pukekohatu told descendants ‘Kia atawhaitia i te tangata i muri i a ahau, kia pai te noho’ or ‘Be kind to all peoples, live well’.

“We continue to develop our economic, cultural, environmental and social pou, and build partnerships as we prepare for the many challenges ahead.

“This is for the benefit of not only Ngāti Rārua of today, but Ngāti Rārua of tomorrow.”