Crown signs $20m deal with Ngai Takato

The collective redress that would be shared with other Te Hiku iwi includes a co-governance arrangement over the protection and management of Ninety Mile Beach. Photo / Dean Purcell.

The Crown has signed a deed of settlement worth more than $20 million for all outstanding historical Treaty claims with Ngai Takoto at Te Ahu Centre in Kaitaia.

Ngai Takoto were left virtually landless by the historical actions of the Crown, Treaty of Waitangi Negotiations Minister Christopher Finlayson said.

"Finally, the people of Ngai Takoto can look forward to a brighter future - 27 years since the Muriwhenua claims were lodged in the area.''

The settlement would provide Ngai Takoto with a strong foundation for economic and social development and would help to transform the social circumstances of their people, Mr Finlayson said.

Ngai Takoto would receive commercial redress of $21.04 million, and the return of culturally significant sites such as on Wharemaru/East Beach.

The collective redress that would be shared with other Te Hiku iwi included a co-governance arrangement with Northland Regional Council and the Far North District Council over Te Oneroa-a-Tohe / Ninety Mile Beach to protect and manage the beach.

Te Hiku iwi would be involved in decisions for the protection and development of public conservation lands remaining in Crown ownership through the Korowai for Enhanced Conservation.

Also included was an Accord that set out how the Crown and iwi would work together to transform the social development and wellbeing of Te Hiku whanau, hapu, iwi and wider community.

The deed of settlement will be given effect through legislation.