Twelve Hauraki iwi, including Ngati Porou ki Hauraki and Ngati Pukenga, have signed a framework agreement to negotiate a settlement of their Treaty claims.
Hauraki Collective chair Paul Majurey says there was a marked feeling of kotahitanga or unity at the hui at Wharekawa marae at Kaiaua on the shores of Tikapa Moana on Friday.
Waatea News reports that contrasted with tensions that developed during the mandating process.
Mr Majurey says the confederation is keen to increase the settlement value from the $53 million proposed last year.
He says the aim is to have agreements in principle by next April, working towards deeds of settlement a year later.
