TREATY OF WAITANGI
The settlement of Treaty of Waitangi claims is important for social justice and the future management of resources and protection of the environment.

Political Parties should commit to:
 

  1. Ensure that in the settlement of Treaty claims that: 
      1. the rights and interests of the environment are  protected and conservation and environmental protection is achieved and 
      2. the Government adequately consults with the people of New Zealand. 
  2. Resolve Treaty of Waitangi grievances by using productive Crown resources (eg SOE land and other resources) in the settlement of Treaty claims. These resources should not be disposed of to other interests if they may be required for a settlement. Conservation land should only be used in special circumstances (eg urupa and notable pa sites). Settlement instruments such as topuni, deeds of recognition and naming which were used in the Tainui and Ngai Tahu settlements could be used.
  3. To recognise the importance to Maori of some native plant and animal materials by: 
    1. promoting the conservation and restoration of native species of particular significance to Maori, such as eel, pingao, flax and totara. 
    2. and to allow for customary use subject to: 
      1. No taking of live wildlife protected under the Wildlife Act or Marine Mammals Protection Act or in contravention of other conservation legislation;
      2. No felling of live trees on conservation land; 
      3. That any harvest is sustainable and has minimal environmental impact; 
      4. Establishment of banks of cultural materials (eg feathers and wood) for use when required.
  4. The proposed vesting of Mt Hikurangi in the Ngati Porou should be reviewed with adequate opportunities for public consultation and ensuring access to Mt Hikurangi as proposed in the original agreement.
  5. Support the establishment of taiapure and mataitai areas to conserve the marine environment. (See also marine section).

For further information contact: All Groups.

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