Protecting public access to the Foreshore and Seabed

The National-led Government has agreed on a new approach to ownership of the foreshore and seabed. We are determined to resolve the foreshore and seabed issue for once and for all.

Our new approach is in the best interests of all New Zealanders. We are making sure the foreshore and seabed cannot be sold, protecting public access, and restoring iwi’s ability to test their customary rights through the courts.

The 2004 Foreshore and Seabed Act will be repealed and replaced with new legislation which will:

- Remove Crown ownership of the public foreshore and seabed, and replace it with a non-ownership model.

- Ensure that the foreshore and seabed cannot be sold.

- Protect public access, and existing navigation and fishing rights.

- Restore the ability of iwi to test their customary rights to the foreshore and seabed through the courts.

- Exclude privately-owned land.

National wants to settle the foreshore and seabed issue, so it does not remain as a weeping sore that would have to be addressed by a future government.

For more information visit:
http://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/repeal+foreshore+and+seabed+act+announced