Several speakers from Ngāpuhi have told a hui on the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) that they are worried the deal could nullify New Zealand's sovereignty.
About 30 protesters lined the roadside outside's today's hui in Whangarei. Photo: RNZ / Shannon Haunui-Thompson
The government has been holding a series of hui on the TPP throughout the country, and Treaty Negotiations Minister Chris Finlayson was challenged at today's event in Whangarei.
Catherine Murupaenga-Ikenn Photo: RNZ / Tiana Barns
About 70 people attended the event, and 30 protesters lined the roadside outside the venue.
The iwi speakers also expressed their concern about the Crown's ability to resolve outstanding treaty issues under the TPP.
Catherine Murupaenga-Ikenn said the government had ignored not only Ngāpuhi but all New Zealanders.
"The Trans Pacific Partnership is just another of innumerable examples where successive governments have gone off and done things which have profoundly affected, not just Maori peoples' rights and responsibilities, but all citizens as well."
Former Labour Party MP Shane Jones, who chaired the meeting, said their concerns were genuine.
Mr Finlayson said at the meeting the TPP would not impinge on New Zealand's sovereignty.
Whaea, from the Poroti area, challenges Mr Jones, who chaired the hui. Photo: RNZ / Shannon Haunui-Thompson