Prime Minister elect John Key with the media after meeting with senior maori iwi leaders at Parliament. Credit:NZPA / Ross Setford.

By Maggie Tait of NZPA

Wellington, Nov 14 NZPA - Prime Minister-elect John Key has promised iwi an ongoing working relationship which they have welcomed as a new era for Maori-Crown relations.

Mr Key also committed to continuing to attend Waitangi Day events at Te Tii marae which outgoing Prime Minister Helen Clark avoided, having been jostled and upset there in the past.

This morning he met Tuku Morgan from Tainui, Sonny Tau from Tai Tokerau, Timi Te Heuheu and Tumanako Wereta from Tuwharetoa, Archie Taiaroa from Whanganui, Api Mahuika from Ngati Porou and Mark Solomon from Ngai Tahu.

Speaking afterwards Mr Morgan told reporters the key issue discussed was preserving and protecting Treaty claims. They supported National's inclusive approach to working with the Maori Party but made it clear they represented the Treaty partner with the Crown.

Mr Key agreed to ongoing sessions and a working relationship.

"We've not had that cohesive approach prior to this time so as we usher in a new era of government in this country Maori also look forward to a new kind of relationship and an opportunity to grow the relationship in an honest and committed way," Mr Morgan said.

"In a nutshell I leave this place with a smile on my face, with an expectation that there will be an honest and frank approach by this Government to deal with Maori issues going forward."

He believed Mr Key would make a fine Prime Minister.

"He's young, he's energetic, he's a passionate New Zealander. The qualities that require him to hold the highest office in the land will hold him in good stead going forward."

Mr Key said the leaders were very keen to engage and have a strong relationship. Talks canvassed fisheries, aquaculture, forestry, water issues, Treaty issues, and the foreshore and seabed legislation.

He repeated a commitment that Ngati Porou's foreshore and seabed deal would not be affected.

Mr Key said Labour over time had locked out more people than it included and he would engage more.

The leaders presented Mr Key with a carved box containing a pounamu stone (greenstone) which Mr Morgan said was a symbol of good faith.

"An expectation on behalf of iwi that iwi will be treated in an honest and comprehensive way."

Mr Key said it represented love, faith and hope: "I might need all three".

The meeting was held after Mr Key suggested leaders would be welcome and they followed up with a request.

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