Rena removal sparks Waitangi Tribunal hearing

The Waitangi Tribunal will undertake an urgent hearing to inquire into allegations that the Crown's conduct in relation to the removal of MV Rena from Otaiti (Astrolabe) reef have been in breach of the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi.

The proceedings would start with a mihi-whakatau, at the Trinity Wharf Hotel and Conference Centre, Tauranga, at 8.30am on Monday June, 30, and finish on Tuesday July 1.

Wednesday 2 July was set aside as a reserve day should more hearing time be needed.

The inquiry will be presided over by Judge Sarah Reeves and the Tribunal panel will consist of Professor Sir Tamati Reedy, the Honourable Sir Douglas Kidd, and Mr Ronald Crosby.

The claims were brought by the M?t?t? Rohe Moana Trust and the Mataatua District M?ori Council (Wai 2391), and the Ng?i Te Hap? Incorporated Society (Wai 2393).

Interested parties include: The Bay of Plenty Regional Council, Ng?i Te Rangi (Wai 540), Ng?ti Whakahemo (Wai 1471), Te Wh?nau a Tauwhao (Wai 807), Ng?ti Whakaue ki Maketu (Wai 1791), the Ng?ti Makino Heritage Trust, and the Ng? Potiki a Tamapahore Trust.