Guaranteeing access to the foreshore and seabed

The Marine and Coastal Area Bill, which represents a better way of ensuring all New Zealanders’ rights in the marine and coastal area are looked after, has been introduced to Parliament.

It creates a “common space” in the marine and coastal area – the Common Marine and Coastal Area - which can never be sold. It protects New Zealanders’ birthright of free public access.

It allows iwi the right to seek customary title to areas that they have used and occupied exclusively since 1840. Where customary title is proved, existing rights such as public access, fishing and navigation – as well as aquaculture and the operation of ports – will be protected. This new bill will let us all move on.

More information
http://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/marine+and+coastal+area+bill+introduced+-+guarantees+public+access