Bay of Plenty iwi claims under way

Two Bay of Plenty iwi have taken the first official step towards a land settlement with the Crown after signing terms of negotiation documents.

Treaty Negotiations Minister Margaret Wilson signed documents on behalf of the Crown with Ngati Manawa at the Rangitahi Marae in Murupara and with Ngati Whare at the Murumurunga Marae in Te Whaiti.

Te Runanga o Ngati Whare trustee James Carlson said the claims covered land around Te Whaiti as well as large sections of the Kaingaroa Forest.

Te Runanga o Ngati Manawa chairman Bill Bird would not give details of his iwi's claims. Both iwi aim to reach an agreement within two years.