Ngapuhi leader points to ‘history-defining period’

Ngapuhi hapu are galvanising themselves for an important period early next year with several key issues confronting them, says Rudy Taylor, a spokesman for Te Kotahitanga o nga Hapu o Ngapuhi.

As a cohesive grouping of Ngapuhi hapu, Te Kotahitanga o nga Hapu o Ngapuhi has come together to ensure that hapu interests are protected and upheld through this history-defining period, he says.

"What looks like a fresh approach is actually an old approach which has now been reborn," says Mr Taylor, referring to the whakaminenga o nga hapu o Niu Tireni – the assembly of chiefs which signed the declaration of independence in 1835.

"Why re-invent the paddle all over again when we already have a proven model?"

Key issues in order of priority include the Waitangi Tribunal’s early hearing in March, 170 years since the signing of Te Tiriti o Waitangi on February 6, which will include another huge gathering of waka and the proposed settlement of Ngapuhi’s Treaty of Waitangi claims.

Ngapuhi must concentrate fully on the hearing to ensure that a clear, coherent and compelling case is put forward to the tribunal, says Mr Taylor.

The other focus for the hapu assembly, which is secondary to the early hearing, is the settlement of treaty claims to ensure that any negotiations with the Crown are hapu-led.

Pita Tipene of Ngati Hine, another spokesman for the assembly, says hapu are now fired up, have a unity of purpose not seen in recent times and are organising themselves to ensure that any treaty settlement will uphold their self-determination.

"The power of collectivism has emerged and a relationship of mutual trust has been developed," he says.

This means a lot of work with clear communication is needed among the hapu which would see the level of organisation needed to bring about the outcomes that everyone sought.

The assembly will also approach Ngapuhi Runanga to ascertain what support it can provide to help the hapu assembly settle the claims with the Crown.

A meeting with the runanga is planned before the end of the month to gauge its support.

A further hui has been called at Te Kotahitanga Marae, Kaikohe, today at 10am to develop organisational details of the hapu assembly and to ensure that all hapu of Ngapuhi are involved in finding a way forward.

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