"This report covers seven claims in Muriwhenua, the country's most northerly district ... Its southern end is fixed by a line from Whangape Harbour in the west to north of Whangaroa in the east, following the Maungataniwha Range. Since Maori hapu or tribes were not generally defined by land boundaries in the manner of states, and were mobile, this boundary is chosen for reasons of geography only. ... claims for the principal hapu aggregations of Ngati Kuri, Te Aupouri, and Ngai Takoto ... Te Rarawa ... Ngati Kuri ... ."-- P. xix.

This compilation of myths, legends, and oral histories from the far north of New Zealand is the story of the people who make up the tribes of Muriwhenua. The author provides whakapapa (genealogy and history) as well as a variety of lively and dramatic stories for each tribe. All have been discussed and agreed on with local kaumatua (elders) and expertly translated by Merimeri Penfold, a kaumatua of the University of Auckland who is widely respected for her knowledge and feel for the Maori language. Photographs of the Muriwhenua landscape enhance the text.

The Waitangi Tribunal sits at the heart of the Treaty settlement process, with a unique remit to investigate claims and recommend settlements. But although the claims process has been hugely controversial, little has been written about the Tribunal itself. These essays, by leading academics, lawyers and researchers, successfully fill that gap, examining the Tribunal’s role in reshaping Māori identity and society, the Tribunal’s future mission, and its contribution to ideas of justice and reparation. This perceptive analysis of a key institution is vital reading for anyone seeking to understand Treaty settlements. Contributors: Paul Hamer Geoff Melvin Grant Phillipson Richard Boast Tom Bennion Stephanie Milroy Jacinta Ruru Deborah Edmunds John Dawson Richard Price Debra Fletcher Evan Te Ahu Poata-Smith Donna Hall Andrew Sharp