March 22, 2021
From landless iwi to housing developer Paoa fate
It’s a new day for Tāmaki and Hauraki iwi Ngāti Pāoa, with not only a $23 million settlement now in the bag but the previous office holders and staff also taking their leave.
Outgoing chief executive Haydn Solomon says Saturday’s deed signing at Wharekawa Marae in Kaiaua was a statement of reconciliation with the crown, with other iwi, and with the tribe itself, which was fractured by the 10-year settlement process.
He says after being rendered almost landless, the tribe is now coming into a substantial estate, which will include the Waiheke farm handed over in a previous settlement, and 10 cultural reserves including Point England Reserve.
An earlier plan for a housing development at Point England was replaced after the change in Government with the opportunity to buy and lease back school properties, but Mr Solomon says housing, marae development and employment are still the top priorities.
"In terms of the opportunities for iwi in general, they are starting to take a big step forward and a major role in terms of the housing sector in New Zealand. It is really important we begin to align ourselves not just with our whanaunga but with other iwi across the country in terms of commercial opportunities," Mr Solomon says.
There is still work to do as the settlement legislation moves through parliament this year.
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