Treaty Negotiations Minister Chris Finlayson says the death of Sir Archie Taiaroa will not set back the prospects for an agreement on the Whanganui River.
Sir Archie led Treaty of Waitangi negotiations for Whanganui iwi, was a member of the Treaty of Waitangi Fisheries Commission and served in both local and regional government.
Mr Finlayson says he had developed a good working relationship with Sir Archie, but he's convinced the young leadership of the iwi will achieve a good settlement for their people.
Mr Finlayson says he's committed to seeing that happen, but says he can't say how long it will take.
The Whanganui iwi leader died last week after suffering a stroke. Some 800 people attended his funeral in Taumarunui on Saturday.
