Ko tō Mana Motuhake tō Tūhoetanga

Ko tō Tūhoetanga tō Mana Motuhake

Ka kore tēnei, ēhara noa tatau

The Key Principles underpinning negotiations with the Crown centre on the belief that Self-government is the basic principle of democracy and that Tūhoe has the democratic right to self-government. 

Tūhoe were not signatories of the Treaty of Waitangi, and have always maintained a right to uphold uniquely Tūhoe values, culture, language and identity within Tūhoe homelands.

While encounters between Tūhoe and the Crown have rendered a history of disgrace and dysfunctional relationships, clearly there are no gains to be had for either party. 

Tūhoe combined with resources (Quantum) and the return of Te Urewera requires the political authority and arrangements to serve the needs of Tūhoe families and communities in all aspects of our daily lives. 

The Crown and Tūhoe must renew and confirm our fundamental constitutional relationship, recognising Tūhoe people both as Tūhoe citizens and New Zealanders by consent. 

These acts are the deeds which will restore the honour of the Crown and return to Tūhoe responsibility for its own Health, Education, Housing, Planning, Justice and other infrastructural needs.