Press Release
Special General Meeting 2026 | FAQ
Special General Meeting 2026 | FAQ

Understanding the Why?

Have members seen these before?

Yes. The 2019 Trust Act changes were first presented to members at the 2024 AGM and again at the 2025 AGM, along with the MFA 2024 changes. Information has also been available online since.

Are these new changes?

No. The proposed amendments have not changed since they were presented to members at the 2024 AGM and 2025 AGM.

Why are these changes being proposed?

The proposed amendments are intended to reflect best practice and align the Trust Deed and Nāti Growth Constitution with current legislative requirements, including the Trusts Act 2019 and Māori Fisheries Act provisions.

Will there be a wider trust deed review?

Yes, a broader trust deed review is anticipated to start later this year (2026) and would provide an opportunity to consider wider changes with input from members.  A full timeline of this review will be released soon and communicated with members.

Understanding the Proposed Amendments

Why do the Trusts Act changes matter?

➤ The Trusts Act 2019 was passed after the Trust Deed was last amended in 2018.

➤ If the Trust Deed and the Trusts Act are inconsistent, the Trusts Act prevails.

➤ The proposed amendments help ensure the Trust Deed reflects current law and reduces uncertainty.

What do the Trusts Act changes cover?

The proposed amendments include:

➤ Clarifying members' rights to trust information

➤ Clarifying trustee duties

➤ Clarifying delegation powers

➤ Clarifying dispute resolution processes

What are the "best practice" changes?

Examples include:

➤ Allowing greater use of email communications

➤ Updating eligibility requirements

➤Correcting drafting errors

➤Improving governance processes

Why are the Māori Fisheries Act changes important?

➤ Changes to the Māori Fisheries Act take effect on 26 July 2026.

➤ The proposed amendments ensure the Trust Deed and Nāti Growth Constitution remain aligned with current      fisheries legislation and can continue to manage fisheries-related assets and activities.

Know How to Participation and Next Steps

How Do I Vote?

Eligible members can now cast their vote on the proposed Trust Deed and Nāti Growth Constitution amendments.

➤ Online voting closes at 12 noon on Thursday 9 July 2026.

➤ Postal votes must be postmarked by Thursday 9 July 2026.

➤ Follow the instructions provided in your voting pack.

➤ Contact Electionz if you require assistance with the voting process.

Make sure your voice is heard by participating in the vote

Why Does Participation Matter?

➤ The Trust Deed and Nāti Growth Constitution are important governance documents for Ngāti Porou.

➤ Whether members support or oppose the proposed amendments, participation helps ensure decisions reflect the views of Ngāti Porou members.

➤ The decision rests with members. We encourage all eligible members to review the information available and participate in the voting process.

What Hasn't Changed?

The proposed amendments do not change:

➤ Members' ability to vote

➤ Members' ability to elect representatives

➤ Members' right to receive information

➤ The requirement for accountability to members

The proposed amendments are intended to align the Trust Deed and Nāti Growth Constitution with current legislative requirements and governance best practice.

What Happens After the Vote?

➤ The outcome of the proposed resolutions will be determined by members through the voting process and Special General Meeting.

➤ If approved, the amendments will take effect in accordance with the resolutions.

➤ If not approved, the current governing documents will remain in place.

      The decision rests with Ngāti Porou members.

What About the Future Trust Deed Review?

➤ The current SGM relates to proposed amendments previously presented to members at the 2024 AGM and 2025 AGM.

➤ A broader Trust Deed review is anticipated to start later this year (2026) and would provide an opportunity to consider wider changes with member input.

➤ A full timeline of the broader trust deed review will be communicated to members soon.