Government delays coastal reforms as government funding for claimants to sue the Crown runs short

_{Summarised by Centrist} 

The coalition government has yet to provide details or a timeline for the proposed changes to the Marine and Coastal Area (MACA) Act. Minister Paul Goldsmith claims that work is underway, but there appears to be a lack of urgency. 

Meanwhile, customary titles are being awarded to various claimant groups. Hearings are being held or scheduled for numerous areas, with some cases awaiting dates for late 2025/2026. 

Claimants receive government funding through the Office of Maori Crown Relations (Te Arawhiti). 

However, significant budget overruns have resulted in a one-time $17m appropriation in the recent budget, on top of the $12m allocated for this year. Funding is capped at $12m for this year and $13m for subsequent years, which seems inadequate as some cases are projected to be very costly. 

Those opposing the claims, like the Landowners Coalition, receive no financial assistance and must cover their costs. 

The Coalition continues its Supreme Court appeal against the Marine and Coastal Area Act judgement in the Edwards (Te Whakatōhea No. 2) case, challenging the interpretation of the law that favours tikanga over property rights. 

The New Zealand Centre for Political Research is raising funds to support this legal action.

Read more over at Democracy Action