22817 (2025). Debbie Ngarewa-Packer to the Minister for Māori Development

22817 (2025). Debbie Ngarewa-Packer to the Minister for Māori Development: Did the Minister consult with iwi, hapu or claimants before announcing the Independent Technical Advisory Group Review of the Waitangi Tribunal, if so, who?

Hon Tama Potaka: No formal consultation with iwi, hapū, or claimants occurred prior to the announcement of the Independent Technical Advisory Group (ITAG) or the commencement of the Review. The Government’s intent to review the Waitangi Tribunal legislation was publicly signalled in the Coalition Agreement between the New Zealand National Party and the New Zealand First Party, released on 24 November 2023, which commits to “Amend the Waitangi Tribunal legislation to refocus the scope, purpose, and nature of its inquiries back to the original intent of the legislation.” Since that time, I have continued to discuss this matter, and many others within my Māori Development portfolio, with a range of leaders from Iwi, Hapū and Māori organisations in various contexts. The Review process now underway includes opportunities for targeted and broader engagement, led by the Independent Technical Advisory Group (ITAG).