Are Ariki members agree to resolve traditional title disputes outside of court

The 51st Are Ariki (House of Ariki) Assembly closed yesterday with the attendance of Ui Ariki, Ui Mataiapo, Ui Rangatira, Putokotoko/Kauono and Aronga Mana and the Minister of House of Ariki, George (Maggie) Angene at the National Auditorium.

Several issues were raised during the weeklong meeting including concerns over the ongoing court cases in regards to disputes over traditional titles and expensive costs of land court application fees.

Kaumaiti Nui (president) Tou Ariki said the outcome of the discussions at the assembly in regards to the “Taonga Maori” traditional titles being heard in court was unanimous in that these cases should not be decided on in a court room.

Plans are for a special committee made up of some members of the Are Ariki, Aronga Mana, Koutu Nui, legal advisors and a technical support group to discuss and to define the rule for the election processes of Ariki and other Taonga Maori such as the Mataiapo, Kavana, Rangatira and its legislation.

The financial budget of the Are Ariki will also be moved to the Ministry of Culture from Parliament House.