The new chairman of Te Ohu Kaimoana says the job ahead of the Maori fisheries trust is to position Maori at the front of the industry, and to get iwi to work together.
Ngati Kahungunu leader Ngahiwi Tomoana has taken over from Sir Archie Taiaroa of Whanganui, and Sonny Tau from Ngapuhi becomes deputy chair.
Mr Tomoana told Waatea News that while iwi collectively own up to 40% of fisheries assets they are still acting like fringe players.
He says 95% of fisheries settlement assets have been allocated and the process should be complete by the middle of next year.
Cook Strait iwi Ngati Toa have this week become the 50th iwi of 57 to receive settlement assets.
