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Leaving in peace and of their own volition.
This was the decision of the group
which occupied Maheatai lands in Taipa.
This is a far cry from what was said yesterday,
that they would remain on the land.
According to the landowner Todd Male, this is good news
because it puts the community of Taipa at ease
along with the local police.
The waters of Taipa are calm,
much like the decision of the protesters of Ngati Kahu.
The office of the Minister of Treaty Negotiations Chris Finlayson says
they are not aware of anything to do with putting land at Taipa
into the Agreement of Principle with Ngati Kahu,
but that their negotiations are continuing
towards the deed of settlement.
Yesterday, Ngati Kahu tribal authority chairperson Makere Mutu
visited the protesters at Maheatai in Taipa.
However, Te Karere was unable confirm with Makere Mutu
whether or she will be lobbying that these requests be included
in their Agreement in Principle.
The owner of the land Todd Male said he's relieved
they are leaving the property.
But the tribe says that if their requests aren't met,
they will continue to protest.
They are expected to meet with the Ngati Kahu tribal authority tomorrow
and hold a whanau day on Sunday before they are expected
to leave on Monday. Irena Smith, Te Karere.