Negotiating leases

A representative of the Māori Trustee will negotiate and manage the lease where the Māori Trustee has been appointed as responsible trustee or agent. 

As a first step in the lease negotiation process, the Māori Trustee commissions a report from an independent valuer.  The report will include a recommendation for a market rent. 

There may also be further reports on the land, such as soil testing, so that fertiliser application can be agreed as part of the lease. Negotiation of rent will also take into account any improvements the lessee intends to make, the term of the lease, maintenance of any buildings etc.

The Māori Trustee may also consult with owners and advisory trustees on any special conditions to be included in the lease.  This could for example include erosion control, plantings or the preservation of wahi tapu (sacred places) or agreed access for owners, such as to an urupā.

All of these items will be set out in the lease, along with the rent, lease period and times for rent reviews or renewals of the lease term.

Once agreed, the lease will be signed between the Māori Trustee where the Māori Trustee is responsible or custodian trustee or agent appointed by the Māori Land Court, or the owner responsible trustees, and the lessee/s.