Nelson Tenths – historic resolution agreement signed today

Tēnā koutou e te whānau,

Today we have signed an historic resolution agreement with the Crown that resolves the outstanding Nelson Tenths litigation.

The agreement results in approximately 7,583 acres of land across Nelson, Tasman and Golden Bay being restored to Te Here-ā-Nuku Trust, and $420 million paid in compensation. It ends more than 16 years of litigation and 180 years of fighting for justice by our whānau.

Today sees the achievement of the key outcomes that we have sought for many years through the Courts:

1. For the Crown to restore its mana by resolving the matter with us directly rather than continuing in lengthy appeal court processes.
2. For the Crown to honour its legal duties by returning the trust land it holds which has been determined by the Courts to be part of the Nelson Tenths Reserves Trust.
3. For compensation to be paid in recognition of the trust land that is unable to be returned. 

It is a milestone day for our whānau and region.

We acknowledge the courage and perseverance of kaumātua Rore Stafford who has represented the customary owners as plaintiff in the case for so many years.  We thank the whānau who have offered their support and trust through this long-running kaupapa.  We recognise the Attorney-General who has worked with us to resolve this issue in a positive and pragmatic way.  

Full announcement

You can read the full announcement at www.tehereanuku.nz

What happens next?

While this is an important milestone, the transfer of trust land has not yet taken place. Over the coming months we will be developing legislation to enact the transfer and we expect this to take place through to mid-2026.

We can now look to the future and make concrete plans for the wellbeing and advancement of our whānau as a collective and our region.

Meantime we welcome you to join us online on Friday 19 December at 10am to celebrate and reflect together on this milestone and provide an opportunity to answer any questions you may have.  Link to be provided.  

Thank you for the trust and support you have shown for many years. There will be further updates to come.

Te Here-ā-Nuku Trustees
info@makingthetenthswhole.co.nz