However, in 1853, as the Crown first began purchasing land around Wairarapa moana, disputes arose over the purchases and encroachment of the natural boundaries of the lakes. This resulted in a royal commission of inquiry, and in 1896, the lake was gifted to the Crown by iwi as tuku rangatira—a chiefly gift—with the intention of ending the disputes and to, hopefully, protect the lakes. In return, the Crown was to provide iwi with ample reserves in the vicinity of the lakes. However, this didn't occur, and instead the Crown provided reserves that were several hundred kilometres away, in the King Country. The settlements each provide for Crown apology redress, which details this history, and this bill facilitates the overdue return of the lake to its rightful owners. Throughout the negotiations, the Crown has heard how the devastating effects of land loss have caused Ngāti Kahungunu and Rangitāne intergenerational suffering. It's a testament to both iwi that despite all they have endured, they have continued to engage in negotiations in good faith, and have committed to rebuilding a new partnership with the Crown. 