The first Deed of Settlement within the Tairāwhiti and Hawke’s Bay Districts was signed by Ngāti Pāhauwera in December last year. The settlement will see Ngāti Pāhauwera receive cash, ownership of assets including a Forest, Farms, DoC lands and landlords of a Forest products plant. The next stage is the passing of legislation and asset transfer processes. Around 300 people witnessed the event, including the Minister of Treaty Settlements the Hon Chris Finlayson, Ikaroa-Rāwhiti MP Parekura Horomia, Te Puni Kōkiri, Office of Treaty Settlements and Department of Conservation officials and staff.