Foreshore and seabed - Getting the balance right

National is committed to ensuring that the interests of all New Zealanders in the foreshore and seabed are recognised and protected.

We believe the Foreshore and Seabed Act 2004 should only be repealed if a satisfactory replacement can be found.

The Government’s proposal is that no one owns, or can own, the foreshore and seabed. The name would be changed from ‘foreshore and seabed’ to ‘public domain’, or takiwā īwī whānui.

Our proposal would provide public access for all, and restore the right of Māori to go to court to establish customary title. It would assure respect for rights and interests, and existing use rights would be protected until the end of their term. Parts of the foreshore and seabed already in private ownership would not be affected.

Our bottom line has always been public access to the foreshore and seabed. But we also want to put in place a way for iwi to have their interests recognised.

A consultation document was released yesterday and I urge you to have your say. The document and information about making a submission can be found at www.justice.govt.nz.

Submissions clos at 5pm on Friday 30 April.