27096 (2025). Debbie Ngarewa-Packer to the Minister for Māori Development

27096 (2025). Debbie Ngarewa-Packer to the Minister for Māori Development: Further to WPQ 22817 (2025) What specific steps, if any, will the Minister take to ensure that iwi, hapū, and Māori communities are meaningfully consulted and engaged throughout the Independent Technical Advisory Group (ITAG) review process of the Waitangi Tribunal legislation?

Hon Tama Potaka: Further to WPQ 22817 (2025), the Independent Technical Advisory Group (ITAG) has been appointed to lead the Review of the Treaty of Waitangi Act 1975. The Group is responsible for determining its own engagement approach, including how it engages with Iwi, Hapū, and Māori communities. While Ministers do not direct the Group’s engagement strategy, the Terms of Reference note the importance of hearing from a range of perspectives, including Māori views on the current operation and future of the Waitangi Tribunal. Members of the Group have been selected for their relevant expertise, including experience in the relations between Iwi and Māori and the Crown and understanding of tikanga Māori.