Another Treaty agreement signed

Another iwi has signed an agreement in principle to settle their historical treaty claim - this time the central North Island based Ngati Manawa.

Treaty Negotiations Minister Michael Cullen said Ngati Manawa claims of financial redress were being dealt with as part of the central North Island forestry settlement.

The agreement covers other areas of the claim including:

* the return of land with special cultural significance;

* $2.5 million for special projects such a tourism development;

* requirements to consult on developments in areas of special association;

* agreement to work towards a settlement for management of the Rangitaiki River similar to that done with Tainui over the Waikato River; and

* the right to purchase Crown land.

The claims of Ngati Manawa relate primarily to the consequences of their loyalty to the Crown during the land wars, the native land laws and the Crown's purchase of land.

Dr Cullen said the iwi had been negotiating since 2004 and while the settlement had been delayed due to the central North Island forestry settlement, the outcome was a better deal for Ngati Manawa.

It was hoped that settlement and associated legislation could be completed in 2009.

- NZPA