The descendents of Whakatōhea chief Mokomoko witnessed the first reading of a bill that seeks to restore the “character, mana, and reputation” of their ancestor. Chief Mokomoko was tried and executed for his alleged role in the murder of Reverend Carl Volkner in Ōpōtiki in 1866. The Government then sent troops into Ōpōtiki where 70,000 hectares of land was seized. Subsequent generations of the Mokomoko whānau have carried the stigma of bringing land confiscation or raupatu to the region.

In 1992 a pardon overturned the conviction although Māori Affairs Minister Pita Sharples says the pardon did not specifically restore his character, mana and reputation.

Mokomoko whānau member Rita Wordsworth said whānau were in Wellington for the first reading of the Mokomoko (Restoration of Character, Mana, and Reputation) Bill.

"This is not just our claim, but it is an acknowledgement of everyone that went through the same thing. It's great to see our MPs working together on a common kaupapa. There were no objections from any of the parties present in the House. It looks very positive they will be able to deal with it quickly."

Dr Sharples hopes the bill will lift the shame and stigma felt by the Mokomoko whānau.

"Seeking and receiving justice for these horrible events has not been easy for Te whānau a Mokomoko. This is something some may not understand - how history still lives with us and is in our actions, our minds, our ambitions, and our aspirations,” said Dr Sharples.