"We are really pleased that the iwi has been able to collaborate to make this a success. Bringing together six Tuwharetoa entities and eight hapi to enable this to happen is something we are really proud of.
"We also acknowledge the support of CNI Iwi Holdings and we look forward to working with the Corrections Department going forward," Mr Tahau said.
Hautu-Rangipo Whenua Limited included a TST subsidiary, two large forestry Trusts, three Tuwharetoa farming entities, and a collective entity representing eight hapu. The purchase is part of the Deferred Settlement Process, which was agreed with the Crown in the 2008 Central North Island (CNI) Treaty Settlement.
Some of the land on the Tongariro/Rangipo Prison site will continue to be used by Ministry of Corrections to help rehabilitate prisoners. This includes about 700ha for a training farm for prisoners to hone their farming skills, giving them real work opportunities on release.
"This deal has been in negotiation since 2008 and all the parties involved should be proud of their contribution to this outcome," Mr Lotu-Iiga said.
"This land has both cultural and commercial significance to Tuwharetoa. It re-joins the Lake Taupo Forest land to the north and Lake Rotoaira Forest land to the south."
The land includes several wahi tapu and two rivers which are important to Ngati Tuwharetoa.
"The sale provides the iwi involved with the resources to assist their economic, social and cultural development. It also has benefits for Corrections and the prisoners who will gain valuable work skills and experience," Mr Lotu-Iiga said.
Corrections and the iwi partnership signed the sale and purchase agreement on 17 April this year.
"I am honoured to take part in such a significant milestone for the people of Ng?ti T?wharetoa and all New Zealanders," Mr Lotu-Iiga said.
