Key meeting to discuss Tiwai Smelter matters
A meeting between Tā Tipene O’Regan (Upoko o Awarua) and Ivan Vella (Chief Executive Aluminium for Rio Tinto) was held at Te Whare o Ngāi Tahu on 
Tā Tipene O’Regan met with Ivan Vella - Chief Executive Aluminium for Rio Tinto.Tuesday 21 June 2022. The two had previously met in person in May 2021 and online in December 2021. Tā Tipene was supported by key leaders from Te Rūnanga o Ngai Tahu, Awarua Rūnaka and Murihiku Regeneration.
Awarua Runaka is leading the discussions with Rio Tinto around the future of the site, including addressing remediation issues, cultural and archeological matters of significance and also supporting community development. This process has been underway since February this year.
The purpose of the meeting was to discuss the future of the Tiwai Smelter and bring some finality to the potential for a Memorandum of Understanding to enable key issues and opportunities relating to the Smelter to be discussed and dealt with.
The meeting was constructive and outlined the Awarua perspectives and concerns. There was a commitment from Ivan Vella to try to address these issues and look to find an acceptable way forward.
These discussions will continue in the next few weeks.
Posted: 28 June 2022