Members of Rangitaane iwi are talking with the Manawatu-Whanganui Regional Council on how they can help manage and clean up the Manawatu River.
Maori party co-leader Tariana Turia says the council needs to work with the iwi now and not wait for a Treaty settlement.
Tribal negotiator Danielle Harris says the iwi is already discussing water quality issues with the council.
Waatea News reports the negotiations with the Office of Treaty Settlements also include questions of river management.
