default-output-block.skip-main
Regional | Crown

Celebrations unfold over final reading of Tūhoe Settlements and Te Urewera Bill

There was a huge gathering in Tāneatua this morning to watch and celebrate the third reading and passing of the Tūhoe Settlement and Te Urewera Bill.

According to Te Hau Tutua, “This is a day for all Tūhoe who have fought to see the completion of the settlement, now let's stand together with the Crown.”

The tribe has over 32,000 members, 80% of that population lives outside of the Tūhoe boundaries.

However many still are unsure how things may progress from here, but can only imagine new opportunities.

Hans Tiakiwai says, “From here on, the tribe will be monitoring its progress and how it will work with other tribes, how it will sit with the Crown.

For me, that's the new pathway that the tribe will walk.”

Tūhoe has strived for independence for years and today's signing brings them one step closer to making that a reality.

Next week, Police Commissioner Mike Bush will visit the homes of Tūhoe families to personally apologise for mistakes Police made during the Urewera Raids.