Muaūpoko Treaty Claims

Muaūpoko Tribal Authority supports the progression of historical Treaty claims on behalf of the iwi. This work seeks to acknowledge the impacts of Crown actions, preserve our history and provide a pathway towards redress for future generations. The first Muaūpoko Treaty claim (WAI 52) was registered with the Waitangi Tribunal in December 1988. Since then, more than 20 claims relating to Muaūpoko have been lodged. Muaūpoko claims have been heard as part of the Te Whanganui-a-Tara Waitangi Tribunal Inquiry and may also be considered within the Porirua ki Manawatū Inquiry District.

The Settlement Process

There are two pathways through the Treaty settlement process.

1. Waitangi Tribunal Process

Claims are heard by the Waitangi Tribunal before progressing to negotiations with the Crown.

2. Direct Negotiations

Where appropriate, the Crown may enter directly into negotiations with a mandated representative group. This can reduce the time required to reach a settlement, while still allowing claimants who wish to present their stories through the Waitangi Tribunal to do so.

Representing Muaūpoko

The Crown’s preference is to negotiate with a single mandated representative entity that represents all of Muaūpoko and all related Muaūpoko WAI claims. Muaūpoko Tribal Authority has worked to ensure the interests of the iwi are represented throughout this process while keeping whānau informed as significant milestones are reached.

Settlement Governance

Muaūpoko Tribal Authority will not receive or hold any Treaty settlement assets. Should a Treaty settlement be negotiated, a new Post-Settlement Governance Entity (Trust) would be established to receive and manage settlement assets on behalf of Muaūpoko.

Before any settlement can proceed, registered members of Muaūpoko would have the opportunity to vote on:

  • the proposed settlement package; and
  • the establishment of the new governance entity.

Learn More

For more information about the Treaty settlement process, visit:
Office of Treaty Settlements (OTS)
Waitangi Tribunal (WT)
Crown Forestry Rental Trust (CFRT)