It is no coincidence that the remnants of the tribal estate of Te Patu Harakeke continue to be sold off.
That is the allegation and reason behind a land occupation by descendants at Poupouwhenua this weekend.
Jared Pitman says, “We are angry that nearly all Patu Harakeke ancestral lands are gone. Currently we have five acres left for our people.”
Patu Harakeke has an extensive range of treaty claims yet to be settled with the Ruakaka Race Course being one example.
It forms part of a vast amount of lands taken under the public works act for electricity production then subsequently sold well under market rate by the council to then become a race course.
Now Refining NZ has recently come up with a new proposal to dredge the Whangarei Harbour to enable fully laden oil tankers to enter and berth.
“That matter doesn't only affect Patu Harakeke but is a major issue for all tribes on the harbour.”
“So we're planning to continue these spot occupations to ensure the Crown and the community fully understand their continued wrongdoing.” Says Jared Pitman.