Ngati Whatua o Orakei celebrated the 21st anniversary of the return of Bastion Point on Wednesday.
Hapu chair Grant Hawke says it was one of the first pieces of land returned to Maori as the result of a Waitangi Tribunal recommendation.
He told Waatea News the battle for the coastal site in Auckland inspired other Maori and also helped Pakeha see New Zealand history in a different light.
Mr Hawke said the challenge for Ngati Whatua now is to achieve a comprehensive Tamaki Makaurau settlement, working alongside other iwi in the region.
