Maori Trustee has taken possession of disputed land at Rautawhiri Station near Gisborne following the arrests of occupiers Bruce Smith, Ruby Smith, Jarna Smith and Kresla Smith. The Smith whanau have been warned any attempt to re-occupy Rautawhiri will result in imprisonment for contempt of court.
Three years ago, the Maori Land Court ruled Smiths’ lease of Maori land at Rautawhiri Station was at an end. They refused to leave, claiming ancestral rights. A stand-off followed. The Smiths blocked public access to the property. Attempts were made to trespass the Maori Trustee. Earlier this year arrest warrants were issued by the High Court, suspended for a period to allow the Smiths time to get legal advice. With no progress made, the Smiths were arrested and removed from the property.
Justice Grice released them from custody with a clear warning; return to Rautawhiri and they will be back in jail.
Maori Trustee v. Smith – High Court (18.07.19)
19.129