What we have Accomplished so Far

The idea itself has been discussed around the country and has been a very effective focus of examining our position in today's world.

Three of us, Joe Malcolm (Ngati Pikiao), Tamati Kruger, (Tuhoe) and myself (Ngati Pahipoto and Ngati Tuhourangi) have already met and talked with people at Whakarewarewa, Te Wainui Marae (near Ohiwa) Te Teko, and Taneatua.

A good deal of support was obtained. Specifically, the Ringatu ki Rangitaiki group gave their support to the kaupapa and became the first group to actually place a rahui on its members only (and not on any football teams) and in a Christian service. My own hapu Ngati Pahipoto, section of Ngati Awa and Matatua gave full support to the kaupapa. Individuals and groups within the Arawa territory gave their support as did many of the chiefs.

We attempted to get canoe-wide support in Te Arawa waka through the paramount chiefs Pokiha Hemana and Ta Hepi Te Heuheu. This bid failed with Ngati Tuwharetoa not supporting the take, because of this we cannot use the name of Te Arawa.

Due to these various moves, the protest now becomes focused on the individual and on groups smaller than the iwi. It is more important thay you exercise your personal judgement, satisfy your own conscience and put a rahui on yourself that is binding on no one else.

We want to assure all Maori groups that we are acting as an independent group of concerned Maori. We are not acting for the Deputy Prime Minister but we agree with his stance. We are not affiliated in any way with organisations such as Hart. We do not received funds or any other kind of help from any organisation.

Me aroha mai koutou ki tenei take a tatou, tenei take whatapakari i a tatou. Nga manaki tanga a te Runga Rawa ki a tatou katoa.