Iwi yearn for Apec benefits

By Richard Knight

Maori issues reporter


ROTORUA - Maori have made it clear they want to share in the spinoff from next month's Apec leaders' summit in Auckland.

The chairman of the Arawa Maori Trust Board in Rotorua, Arapeta Tahana, told senior Apec officials in the city yesterday that Maori have expectations from the conference.

"When they meet and talk about the Pacific, we want them to also make sure Maori are part of the equation," he said.

"Maori have not necessarily benefited in all things since the coming of the European."

The Apec officials are meeting in Rotorua to lay the groundwork for the summit.

Tight security, including a large police presence, surrounded yesterday's welcoming ceremony and this will be maintained for the two-day meeting.

The chair of the Apec Maori Issues Taskforce, Paora Ammunson, said Maori had already gained from the Apec countdown. "Maori businesses have met officials from the Apec countries and are in the process of establishing long-term networks.

"The short-term benefits for Maori has been the opportunity to host conferences like the one in Rotorua, and to show the countries the brand marketing available to them."

Apec senior official Maarten Wevers said the summit would give New Zealand the opportunity to showcase itself to the world.

"This is one of the most important occasions ever to be held in this country.

"The significance of the conference has positive implications."

Mr Ammunson said the Government had made a commitment to Maori and the role they had in Apec.

"There has been a specific strategy put together.

"The Crown sees Maori businesses as a key area to target.

"We have travelled the country explaining to Maori what Apec could mean to them and what benefits they could receive."