Section 7aa Submission

3 July 2024


Committee Secretariat

Social Service & Community Select Committee Parliament Buildings

Wellington


Oranga Tamariki (Repeal of Sec4on 7AA) Amendment Bill


Kōrero whakataki

  • Te Korowai o Ngāruahine Trust (‘Te Korowai’) is the Post Settlement Governance Entity (‘PSGE’) for Ngāruahine Iwi. Te Korowai has responsibility of managing and growing the Ngāruahine treaty settlement assets – for the benefit of Ngāruahine uri, whānau, hapū and Iwi. Te Korowai also has the responsibility to ensure an enduring settlement and that Te Tiriti rights of Ngāruahine are upheld by government.
  • Te Korowai does not have any political affiliations and we will work alongside any government to progress the interests of Ngāruahine. Equally, we have the responsibility of challenging any statutory reforms and policies that conflict with the interests of Ngāruahine.
  • This submission outlines the general view of Te Korowai as informed by our purpose, strategies, plans and policies – which can be found at can be found on our website www.ngaruahine.iwi.nz.
  • Te Korowai strongly oppose the Oranga Tamariki (Repeal of section 7AA) Amendment Bill.


E hoki ki te Ūkaipō


  • Our priority is the well-being of our Ngāruahine tamariki, whānau, hapū and Iwi. We encourage the reconnection of our uri and whānau to their Hapū and Iwi.
  • We are concerned by the lack of consultation undertaken with Iwi Māori, and the lack of evidence base for this amendment. We are concerned about the removal of key accountability provisions for tamariki Māori. The current disparities for Māori will widen with the repeal of s7AA.
  • We support the Waitangi Tribunal's findings in their urgent inquiry report (Wai 3350):
  1. The repeal of s7AA is a clear breach of Te Tiriti article 2 guarantee to Māori of Tino rangatiratanga over kāinga
  2. The repeal breaches the principle of partnership and active protection
  3. The repeal of s7AA is rushed and we are prejudiced by this
  4. There has been a failure to fully analyse the downstream effects of the repeal
  5. There is a significant risk of actual harm to vulnerable tamariki


There is no conflict between Te Tiriti and the well-being and best interests of our Tamariki.


Hei whakakapi


  • We are deeply concerned by the disproportionate targeting of Māori in statutory reform programme under the 100-day plan, and the toxic vitriol and anti-Māori sentiment that it encourages.
  • We recommend that the repeal of s 7AA should not proceed.


Pai Mārire

Emma Gardiner Pouwhakarae

Te Korowai o Ngāruahine Trust

October 29, 2025
Kaiwhakahaere Pūmanawa Tangata - Human Resources Manager Permanent, 37.5 hours per week Located in Hāwera, Taranaki Mō te tūranga | The role Te Korowai o Ngāruahine Trust is seeking a dynamic and experienced Kaiwhakahaere Pūmanawa Tangata - Human Resources Manager to provide both strategic and operational leadership across all aspects of HR. This pivotal role ensures our HR practices uphold the values of The Trust, meet legislative requirements, and are future-focused and fit for purpose. You’ll review and strengthen HR frameworks, contracts, structures, and policies, ensuring alignment with our kaupapa Māori approach to leadership and wellbeing. You’ll also identify operational gaps and implement practical solutions that enhance capability, integrity, and organisational resilience. Key Responsibilities: Lead the design and delivery of people, culture, and capability strategies aligned with organisational goals. Provide strategic advice to senior leaders and the Board on all people-related matters, workforce planning, and organisational design. Oversee compliance with relevant employment legislation. Conduct regular reviews of HR policies and procedures, developing new frameworks where needed. Collaborate with management to plan for future workforce needs and strengthen capability across all levels. Foster a positive organisational culture grounded in manaakitanga, whanaungatanga, and kotahitanga. Lead initiatives that promote staff wellbeing, development, and engagement. He kōrero mōu | About you The successful candidate will offer: Minimum of 5+ years’ experience in senior HR or organisational leadership roles. Proven experience reviewing and improving HR systems, policies, and structures. Sound understanding of New Zealand employment legislation and HR best practice. Strong communication, problem-solving, and influencing skills. Deep respect for and understanding of tikanga Māori and te reo Māori (or a commitment to grow in this area). Strategic thinking with a collaborative and hands-on approach. Values-driven leadership with a focus on manaakitanga, whanaungatanga, and kotahitanga. He Angitūtanga | The opportunity Make a meaningful impact in a values-driven, kaupapa Māori organisation. Be part of a team making a real difference for Māori and the wider community Lead and shape the future of HR for the organisation Enjoy a supportive, flexible work environment with opportunities for growth Participate in significant kaupapa and events, and access to te reo Māori learning Hybrid working options will be considered Ngā Mātāpono | Values At Te Korowai o Ngāruahine Trust, our values are the foundation of everything we do: Mahi ka tika | Transparency Mahi pono | Trustworthiness Manaakitanga | Sharing and caring Māhakitanga | Respect and humility Ngākaunui | Sound judgement Hari me te koa | Fun and celebration Tono mai | Apply If this sounds like you, I’d love to kōrero! Contact Maria Lyons on 021 403 855 or to apply, email your CV and a cover letter outlining your relevant experience to maria.lyons@nicherecruitment.co.nz Or apply via Seek Kaiwhakahaere Pūmanawa Tangata - Human Resources Manager Job in Hawera, Taranaki - SEEK We will be reviewing applications as we receive them. Closing date for applications is 9am, Monday, 3 November To be eligible to apply, candidates must currently hold the right to work and reside in New Zealand.