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August 07, 2025
Changes to Takutai Moana Act to prevent Iwi from blocking marina says Minister Paul Goldsmith
Claudette Hauiti
Posted On August 7, 2025
Download AudioJustice Minister Paul Goldsmith has admitted that changes to the Takutai Moana Act is to prevent hapū and Iwi from blocking resource consents for marina builds.
The Minister confirmed the coalition government will forge ahead with changes to the Takutai Moana Act – reinstating a tougher legal test for Māori seeking customary marine title.
Goldsmith told media this week, that if a particular Iwi has customary marine title then that iwi will have a complete say over resource consents in that space. He says it’s about getting the balance right for all New Zealanders.
The move comes despite a Supreme Court ruling last year that upheld the current threshold. Goldsmith says the changes are needed to restore the original intent of the law and ensure balance for all New Zealanders.
Under the proposal, at least three iwi groups who’ve already been through the courts will be forced to resubmit their claims. More than 200 other applications could also be affected.
Goldsmith admits the process isn’t ideal, but says $15 million has been set aside to support resubmissions.
The government aims to pass the law before October.
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