"The journey to this moment has been long and not without loss, so while the CNI Iwi Collective looks forward to a prosperous future, we must acknowledge those who are no longer with us yet were instrumental in helping to achieve our aspirations," Mr Te Pou said.
"Our deepest respect and gratitude to Bill Bird, Henare Pryor, Dixon Chapman, Rawiri Te Whare, Stephen Asher, Robert Taylor and Butch Powhare along with the countless others who have passed on."
Mr Te Pou said the process of working together over the last six years has made the CNI Iwi Collective stronger and more unified.
"We hope it will lead to a deep and lasting partnership which continues to bring benefits to all our members.
"Nothing like this had been done before. It was a ground-breaking settlement in 2008, with unique structures and ambitious plans put in place. Our framework has allowed us to create a robust foundation on which to grow."
"In particular, the mana whenua process to determine which Iwi belongs to which areas of land was unprecedented."
Key Outcomes
- Of the 23 blocks vested in the company, the mana whenua of 4 of the blocks has already been agreed to between the Iwi;
- Ten blocks are still to be negotiated by Iwi to determine how to recognise mana whenua over these blocks;
- Nine blocks (the Kaingaroa forest, and approximately half the settlement lands) were referred to an adjudication panel by unanimous agreement of the eight CNI Iwi.
Moana Jackson, Wayne Ngata and Tahu Potiki were asked by the eight Iwi to adjudicate over the nine land blocks and all three agreed to work with the Iwi on this unique kaupapa, from December 2013 to June 2014.
"The Iwi have all had immense respect for the Panel," Mr Te Pou said.
"All Iwi members know that the process has been fair. All Iwi have had the opportunity to put their korero on the table and be heard, and now the adjudicators have made their decision."
The final allocation agreement for the Central North Island forests land is effective from 1 July 2044.
Meanwhile the company will continue to manage the land and receive and distribute the income from the land to the eight Iwi according to their agreed proportions until 1 July 2044.
"Since 2008, when the settlement was agreed to, we have all faced challenges - not only the company directors but also our Iwi members. Those challenges have not beaten us, and we have all become stronger and more determined to safeguard these Taonga. Ultimately, it's been about understanding how effective collaboration can lead to successful partnerships."
"Having witnessed this process, I'm inspired by what our Iwi can achieve when they are committed to working together," Mr Te Pou said.