This group has been active since 2009 and focuses on exploring giving effect to The Treaty of Waitangi in regards to Iwi relationships and local government.
The focus area is from Rangitikei River to the Ngāti Toarangatira maunga, known as Whitireia. The tākiwa, is populated by Rangitane, Muaūpoko, Ngāti Raukawa ki Te Tonga, Te Ati Awa, Ngāti Toa Rangatira, their associated hapū and iwi and approximately 30,000 Māori residents whose whakapapa is to Iwi from other regions.
This same area has eight local government bodies to work with: two regional councils and six district councils. The collection of iwi in the region, have many and varied concerns to address with the local and regional bodies and they are looking to improve environmental management issues.
A core working group chaired by Whatarangi Winiata with Pātaka Moore, Jessica Kereama-Stevenson, Ani Parata, Te Kerehi Wi Warena and Kara Kearney are supported by Ani Mikaere, Te Kenehi Taylor, Huhana Smith, Hone Davis, Alma Winiata and Daphne Luke.
The group will be making a number of presentations at the upcoming Our People, Our Future, Our Way Summit being held at Te Wānanga o Raukawa on 15 November, and are planning a national hui next year