25 Jun 2010

Strength of claim cited by Muriwhenua

9:03 am on 25 June 2010

A Far North claim negotiator says Muriwhenua iwi have one of the strongest cases in the country to customary ownership of the foreshore and seabed.

Haami Piripi from Te Rarawa says the actions of elders in the 1950s to have Te Oneroa a Tohe or 90 Mile Beach classified as Maori land have provided a solid base for today's negotiators.

He told Waatea News that Far North iwi have never given up the struggle and the outcome could be better for everyone.

Mr Piripi said Far North negotiatiors have been using some of the models already established by Ngati Porou and Te Whanau a Apanui to advance their case.