June 13, 2021
Little aims to speed up takutai moana rights recognition
The Crown is taking a new approach in an attempt to speed up to applications under the Marine and Coastal Areas (Takutai Moana) Act.
It follows its decision not to appeal a High Court decision recognising hapū from Whakatōhea and neighbouring iwi have customary right and practices in coastal areas around Ōpōtiki.
Treaty of Waitangi Negotiations Minister Andrew Little says at the current pace it would take 100 years to fully determine all 387 applications, but with the new approach he hopes it can be done in 25 years.
He says the Crown will engage with all iwi, hapū, and whānau groups across 20 coastal areas to timeframes informed by applicants.
Engagement will be collaborative and focus on building an understanding of the relevant tikanga, preparing the historical research and evidence needed to meet the legal tests for recognition, and working through shared or overlapping interests.
He says the two pathways available under the legislation, direct application to the minister or going through the High Court, need to align better in terms of support for applicants and the work that needs to be done.
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