July 07, 2015
Waahi tapu give iwi place on landscape
The return of significant customary sites will give Taranaki iwi a presence back on the landscape under the terms of a settlement initialled in New Plymouth today.
The $70 million deal includes 29 sites of cultural significance, including joint ownership of Nga Motu/ Sugar Loaf Islands with Te Atiawa, and a two-year deferred right of selection over 29 commercial properties.
Taranki Iwi Trust chair Toka Tu Moana Kevin Walden says there is not much crown land in the rohe, which runs around the western side of the mountain from New Plymouth to Opunake.
That makes getting back reserves from the Department of Conservation so important.
"In terms of the historical sites, Te Koru Pa is quite a historic pa. How the battles between Te Atiawa and Taranaki iwi in the past. Theres also Tataraimaka Pa, Tapunikau Reserve. So we've got a number of our reserves that are going to be returned back. What we are wanting to do is to reinstate our mana back onto the landscape and we are wanting the title of those lands back under Taranaki iwi," says Tokatumoana Walden.
He says Taranaki has a good relationship with the Department of Conservation Te Papa Atawhai which should continue.
Registered iwi members have until August 7 to vote on the settlement.
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