Te Atiawa's Treaty negotiator in Taranaki says there's a chance its $88 million settlement with the Crown could be completed by the middle of the year.
Three iwi, Nga Ruahine, Taranaki and Te Atiawa signed provisional agreements just before Christmas with the Minister for Treaty of Waitangi Negotiations, Chris Finlayson.
They relate to past grievances including the impact of the New Zealand Wars and the invasion by Government troops in 1881 of the small community of Parihaka.
Peter Moeahu from Te Atiawa says the minister has indicated he is keen to have deeds of settlements sorted out quickly, and possibly by June.
He says that's an ambitious timeline but if it's possible the tribes will be delighted.
Mr Moeahu says once Te Atiawa has signed its deed with the Crown it will begin implementing a 25 year development plan, to be called the cycle of growth strategy.
He says the focus will be on social, cultural and commercial development by the iwi.
