Whenua Māori information sessions to begin

All whenua Māori landowners, whānau, and interested parties are invited to attend the first in a series of community hui on how to preserve and manage whenua Māori, which start this Saturday and roll into 2025.

The hui will be held at marae across the Far North and include an overview of rates relief options, the council’s remissions and postponement policies, as well as other resources.  One-on-one discussions will also be offered at the end of the presentation when staff will provide tailored advice and answer specific questions.  Representatives from Te Kooti Whenua Māori / Māori Land Court will join the council-run sessions to share further resources and support options for Māori landowners.

Details of the first two hui are:

• Waipuna Marae, Panguru — 2131 West Coast Rd, Saturday 23 November
• Ōtiria Marae, Moerewa — 7 Kingi Rd, Monday 16 December

All sessions will begin with a pōwhiri at 10am sharp.

More hui are scheduled for 2025, when it is anticipated that staff from Te Puni Kōkiri / Ministry for Māori Development will also attend.

Charlie Billington, Group Manager of Corporate Services says the information sessions will include details on the Rating of Whenua Māori Amendment Act, which permits councils to reduce or remit rates on Māori land under certain circumstances.

“The hui are an opportunity to connect with whenua Māori owners and whānau by offering support and practical advice tailored to their unique challenges.”