I have enjoyed my year as Associate Minister of Māori Affairs.

Next month I expect to receive the report on the review of the Te Ture Whenua Māori Act 1993 from the panel chaired by Matanuku Mahuika. The Government will consider their report and respond in the early part of 2013.

I wish the outgoing Chief Executive of Te Puni Kōkiri, Leith Comer, all the best as he leaves the Ministry to move on to other things.

I thank all Te Puni Kōkiri employees for your work throughout the 2012 year, and I trust you have had a safe and happy Christmas break.

Hon Christopher Finlayson
Associate Minister of Māori Affairs