The Crown has moved a step forward in settling the historical treaty grievances of two iwi from Rotorua and the Bay of Plenty.
At a ceremony at Parliament on Thursday, Treaty Negotiations Minister Chris Finlayson signed agreements in principle with representatives from Ngati Rangiwewehi and Tapuika.
The agreements include financial redress of $6 million, a Crown apology for the grievances and the vesting of recreational and scenic reserves to each iwi.
Mr Finlayson said the iwis' negotiators have consistently demonstrated their vision for their respective iwis' land and resources.
The agreement includes agreed historical accounts and Crown acknowledgement of land and waterways significant to Ngati Rangiwewehi and Tapuika.
