Local government and iwi in Hawke's Bay have made an agreement to make changes to the Ruataniwha Dam proposal - in order to improve the river health and quality.
The regional council and its investment arm along with three local tribal entities including Ngati Kahungunu have made a pact to change plans relating to the Tukituki River catchment.
Ngati Kahungunu had opposed the Ruataniwha water storage scheme because the council refused in-depth consultation.
The changes should help protect the marae near the river, as well as take in to account the interest of tribal people, who have ties to the waterway.
Fenton Wilson, the chair of the Hawke's Bay Regional Council and it's investment arm, says the news will help to maintain open dialogue between iwi and the council.
Ngati Kahungunu Runanga chair, Ngahiwi Tomoana, is supportive saying the iwi always prefers negotiations as a opposed to litigation.