Agreements in principle have been signed between the Government and two Auckland based iwi - Ngati Whatua o Kaipara and Ngati Manuhiri.
The $22 million agreement with Ngati Whatua o Kaipara covers five marae. Waatea News reports it includes an offer to transfer Woodhill Forest and a 10 acre block at Helensville to the iwi.
The $9 million agreement in principle with Ngati Manuhiri covers an area between Mangawhai and Whangaparoa and includes an offer to transfer South Mangawhai Forest, subject to covenants.
Treaty of Waitangi Negotiations Minister Chris Finlayson says the Crown wishes to recognise the significance of Little Barrier Island to the iwi.
Waatea News reports the Crown compulsorily acquired the island in 1895.
Meanwhile, Ngati Whatua o Kaipara says it still has to negotiate its claim to the Kaipara harbour.
