Te Arawa Partnership working party member Arapeta Tahana said he was confident the group would effectively engage and represent Te Arawa in key matters that affected Te Arawa and Maori within the district.
"This group have a wealth of experience in governance, leadership, Maori and community development, not to mention their professional fields. What is most impressive however is that they are well connected and actively involved in the development of Te Arawa and Maori in the district. We believe that both council and Te Arawa should be pleased with the people who have been elected."
He said the announcement of the board marked the beginning of a new journey for the council and Te Arawa to work together.
The election process had also demonstrated Te Arawa's commitment to the process with 2839 votes received, which represented a 25 per cent voter turn out which is double the percentage of Maori who voted in the last council elections (12 per cent).
"We believe this is a sign the partnership is already having a positive impact in terms of engaging more Maori in the activities of local government. It is also an improvement in democratic process for electing Te Arawa people to represent our views with council, the previous Te Arawa Standing Committee elections typically attracted between 50-150 voters, so the election process for this board has provided a more democratic and inclusive platform for Te Arawa to consider its representatives."
Mr Tahana said they remained focussed on the work ahead. The working party is planning the inauguration of the board and signing of a Memorandum of Understanding that will guide the partnership.
A hui-a-iwi will be held on December 18 (exactly one year from the day Te Arawa presented their proposed model to the council) at Te Papaiouru Marae.
"The working party is looking forward to this history making event and the opportunity to formally pass on the mantle of this kaupapa to this very capable board."
