Iwi chairs from throught New Zealand are discussing issues relating to freshwater, mining and housing at their annual meeting which began in Tauranga today.
More than 50 Maori leaders and advisers are attending the forum hosted by three Tauranga Moana iwi - Ngai Te Rangi, Ngati Ranginui and Ngati Pukenga.
The forum started with a tour of a Maori kiwifruit coolstore and a reception.
Tomorrow there would be presentations by Ngati Tuwharetoa chief Taa Tumu Te Heuheu on freshwater and Te Rarawa chief Haami Piripi on the oil and the mining industry.
Host Charlie Tawhiao, of Ngai Te Rangi, said the state of the economy would be a major talking point as many iwi interests were tied to it.
Cultural, environmental and social issues such as housing and Whanau Ora would also be discussed. The forum ends on Thursday.
