Minister for Māori Development, Tama Potaka says the government has reaffirmed its commitment to restoring the health of the Waikato River with Te Arawa.
“My thanks to the Te Arawa River Iwi Trust for bringing their important kōrero to a ministerial forum at Parliament today,” said Mr Potaka.
“Our kōrero focused on restoring and protecting the health and wellbeing of the Waikato River, which is the key priority for the Iwi accord,” Minister Potaka said.
“This long-standing commitment is an opportunity for us and Trust leaders to review the progress being made on existing kaupapa, address matters of shared concern, and identify new opportunities for collaboration.
“One of the exciting kaupapa is through the Trust’s education strategy, He Ripo Areare. This strategy has led to an education programme starting this term delivering mātauranga science to years 10 and 11.
“I am looking forward to working with my Ministerial colleagues and officials to expand on the topics discussed at the form, and to identify how we can collaboratively contribute meaningfully to the aspirations of the Te Arawa River Iwi Trust.”
The Minister said the government was committed to delivering on Treaty commitments to Iwi and hapū.
“Sustaining strong partnerships with Iwi and hapū is essential to the prosperity of all New Zealanders,” he said.
