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Source: ONE News
A Deed of Settlement for all outstanding historical Treaty claims has been signed with Raukawa at Aotearoa Marae near Te Awamutu today.
Treaty Negotiations Minister Chris Finlayson said the Crown failed to protect Raukawa from becoming landless and contributed to the economic, social and cultural impoverishment of Raukawa.
"The lack of land and resources undermined the ability of the iwi to participate in new economic opportunities in its rohe," Finlayson said.
"Today's settlement rights the wrongs of the past and allows Raukawa to build a stronger future."
The Raukawa Deed of Settlement includes commercial redress of $50 million, including the value of the 2008 Central North Island Forestry Settlement. it returns culturally significant sites along the Waikato River and other areas as well as strengthening the commercial relationship between Raukawa and Mighty River Power.
"This settlement is further progress towards concluding all settlements in New Zealand," Finlayson said.
The settlement was ratified by the Raukawa community with support of over 94.42% of those who voted and will now be implemented through legislation.