Mana whenua are celebrating news a resolution to the Ihumātao dispute is near, with the flag of the Kiingitanga removed from the site today.
People have gathered at Ihumātao to welcome Kiingi Tūheitia. Photo: RNZ / Eden Fusituá
Details of a resolution are yet to be confirmed but in a statement this morning, representatives said a positive resolution was expected before Waitangi Day.
The government has acknowledged the significance of the decision to lower the flag at the historic site.
See how the events unfolded in photos:
The open gates at Ihumātao yesterday morning. Photo: RNZ / Eden Fusituá
Fletcher Building takes down fences at Ihumātao yesterday. Photo: RNZ / Simon Rogers
Protectors' signage at Ihumātao Photo: RNZ / Eden Fusituá
People arrive at Ihumātao today ahead of Kiingi Tūheitia. Photo: RNZ / Eden Fusituá
SOUL leader Pania Newton Photo: RNZ / Eden Fusituá
The Kiingitanga flag flying at Ihumātao. Photo: RNZ / Eden Fusituá
A karanga welcomes the Kiingitanga party to the land:
Kiingi Tūheitia at Ihumātao Photo: RNZ / Dan Cook
Pania Newton and Kiingi Tūheitia at Ihumātao. Photo: RNZ / Eden Fusituá
Pania Newton embraces the King at Ihumātao. Photo: RNZ / Eden Fusituá
Kiingi Tūheitia with Kiingitanga spokesperson Rukumoana Schaafhausen at Ihumātao after the Kiingitanga flag was removed. Photo: RNZ / Dan Cook
Pania Newton, Qiane Matata-Sipu and other members of SOUL after the Kiingitanga flag was lowered at Ihumātao. Photo: RNZ / Eden Fusituá