In 2013, Ngā Rauru had about 4,000 members, who belonged to 14 hapū (clan or descent goups).
The 14 hapū are affiliated to the following marae:
- Rangitāwhi, Pūkorokoro, Ngāti Hine, Kairākau, Ngāti Maika and Manaia – Wai-o-Turi marae
- Ngā Ariki – Waipapa marae
- Ngāti Pourua – Takirau marae
- Ngāti Hou Tipua – Kaipō marae
- Hine Waiatarua – Te Ihupuku marae
- Ngāti Ruaiti – Tauranga Ika marae
- Ngāti Maika – Pākaraka marae
- Pūkeko/Iti – Te Aroha, Kai Iwi and Taipake marae
- Hine Waiata – Whenuakura marae
- Ngāti Tai – Wairoa Iti marae
The tribe is represented by the Ngā Rauru Iwi Authority.
Treaty of Waitangi settlement
In 2000 the tribal authority began negotiations with the Crown to settle historical grievances, including the loss of life, land and property as a consequence of war in the 1860s, and disadvantage from subsequent land dealings. These negotiations began after years of discussion, submissions and applications for the Crown to honour its role as a treaty partner. In November 2003 a settlement was signed after the agreement was ratified by members of the tribe. The settlement included a Crown apology, cultural redress including access to traditional foods and food-gathering areas, and financial compensation of $31 million. They also gained the right of first refusal to buy Crown-owned properties.
The future
With the treaty settlement finalised, the tribe is in a position to revitalise Ngā Raurutanga – the values, beliefs and customs that are unique to Ngā Rauru. Plans for social development include support for the learning and use of the Māori language, and ensuring that marae are important in the lives of Ngā Rauru people. Economic development of the tribe is also a key aim. Recent commercial enterprises include a venture to produce and market traditional herbal remedies using native plants.
