A South Island kaumatua says the most important thing is to focus on developing the next generation to lead the iwi.
Ngai Tahu rangatahi (youth) from all over New Zealand travelled to Southland during the weekend to take part in the first Manawa Hou - a four day hikoi around local marae and culturally significant sites.
The hikoi coincided with the anniversary of the tribe signing its Treaty settlement with the Crown in 1998.
Sir Tipene O'Regan says his tribe is thriving financially and the next stage is to prepare their rangatahi to carry the iwi forward.
Mr O'Regan says Ngai Tahu has grown its asset base and the important thing is to grow its human capital to match it.
Young people, aged 15 to 17, will be mentored by adult members of the iwi to increase their awareness of their tribal identity.
