One of the last major Treaty of Waitangi claims has been resolved

A Dead of Settlement has been struck between the Crown and Bay of Plenty iwi Whakatohea.

Along with a Crown apology and agreed historical account -- it includes 100-million dollars and the return of six-thousand hectares of land.

And in a Treaty settlement first, five-thousand hectares of marine space.

AUT History Professor, Paul Moon says it means the iwi can now get into business development.

He says iwi who haven't settled have found themselves with their hands tied behind their backs... wanting to progressive economically but unable to do so.