Plan to change Maori act aired at hui

Te Horipo Karaitiana, CEO, Federation of Maori Authotrities. Photo / Duncan Brown

The Federation of Maori Authorities is encouraging its Rotorua members and all Maori land owners to attend an upcoming hui to ensure they are informed about proposed changes to Te Ture Whenua Maori Act.

The Government has committed to repealing Te Ture Whenua Maori Act 1993 following acceptance of Te Ture Whenua Maori 1993 Review Panel recommendations.

In the next three weeks, Te Puni Kokiri officials and a Maori technical working party will hold 19 hui across the region.

The Rotorua meeting will be held on Thursday, from 6pm to 8pm at the Distinction Hotel.

Federation chief executive Te Horipo Karaitiana said it was important changes to the legislation provided the best possible structure to support the optimisation of Maori land.

"There is huge potential in Maori land and we look forward to working with whoever leads the next Government to help land owners realise that potential.

"We believe there are some critical questions that need addressing, such as why the Crown is rushing the process and why there is no policy document available for Maori land owners to consider prior to these hui.

"Some of the proposals currently being talked about could result in significant costs, particularly for smaller entities," Mr Karaitiana said.

The federation would provide regular updates to its members through its website www.federation.maori.nz.