CROWN RECOGNITION OF OUR DEED OF MANDATE

Te Whakaaetanga Trust is humbled to announce that the Crown has now formally recognised our Deed of Mandate to negotiate a Treaty settlement on behalf of our affiliated hapū and whānau.

This recognition marks a significant step forward in our collective journey. We acknowledge and thank the many whānau, hapū, kaumātua, rangatahi and uri who have shaped this kaupapa over many years, in support, in questioning, in wānanga and in mahi.

We also acknowledge that not all views are the same. Some have expressed full support, others concern, and many have asked important questions. All perspectives are respected. Dialogue continues, and we are committed to open, transparent, and inclusive engagement going forward.

What this means:

• We can now formally enter Treaty settlement negotiations with the Crown
• It strengthens our collective voice to advocate for real redress and future opportunities
• It does not end kōrero – it begins a new phase where hapū voices remain central

What happens next:

• Hui will be held to kōrero kānohi ki te kānohi
• Regular updates will be provided online and through pānui
• We invite all with whakapapa, whenua or wairua connection to stay involved

We carry this responsibility with humility and aroha, knowing it is for those to come.

“Ehara tēnei i te mahi māmā, engari he mahi nui mō ngā uri whakatupu. Mā tātou katoa tēnei e kawe – mā te rangimārie, mā te kotahitanga, mā te aroha hoki.”

Ngā manaakitanga,

Te Whakaaetanga Trust

Downloads:

• Full panui from Te Whakaaetanga Trust (PDF)
• Ministers’ Letter of Endorsement (PDF)
• Final Deed of Mandate – July 2025 (PDF)

Further updates will be available here and on our Facebook page.