A Far North iwi leader says he's lost faith in the way the Government provides compensation to tribes through the granting of mining permits.
Haami Piripi is heading a technical working group set up by the Iwi Chairs Forum which is investigating the impact of mining in Te Tai Tokerau.
It will also analyse the possible risks and benefits before it decides whether to support the Government's mineral exploration regime.
Mr Piripi, who is the chair of Te Runanga o Te Rarawa, says it's important the research is objective so it can show what benefits there really are.
And he disagrees with the way the Government distributes royalties after granting a permit.
He says he's lost faith in the Government's formula, where it takes its slice and iwi wait for royalties to trickle down to them.
Mr Piripi says the group is looking at new paradigms including talking to mining companies about working together.
