Crown signs settlement with Ngati Rarua

Minister for Treaty of Waitangi Negotiations Christopher Finlayson. Photo / Mark Mitchell

The Crown has signed a multi-million dollar Treaty of Waitangi settlement for historical claims with upper South Island iwi Ngati Rarua in Blenheim today.

Treaty of Waitangi Negotiations Minister Christopher Finlayson said the actions of the Crown left Ngati Rarua without sufficient and suitable lands for their needs, which had serious consequences that were felt today.

"Today we take a significant step towards addressing the wrongs in the past and building a strong economic future for the Ngati Rarua in the region.''

The iwi will receive financial redress of $11.76 million and have the opportunity to purchase Wairau and Motueka Crown forestry land near Nelson.

The Deed of Settlement also recognised the strong association Ngati Rarua has with Wairau Bar and Lagoons, Kaka Point and Te Tai Tapu.

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The deed was ratified by the Ngati Rarua community with support from over 99 per cent of those who voted, and will be implemented through legislation.