The Hokianga Hapu and Whanau Collective has scored a victory from a fractured claims funder.
Despite ongoing division within the Crown Forestry Rental Trust, it has agreed to provide about $175,000 for a leg of the Northland hearing, Te Paparahi o Te Raki. The money will pay for technical witnesses and hearing venues.
Hokianga Hapu and Whanau chair Rudy Taylor says the decision is a green light to move on their claims.
Infighting at the Crown Forestry Rental Trust delayed its process but everything is now back on track, he says.
A powhiri will be held on 6 April before a week-long hearing.