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March 10, 2026
#whenua: Concerns Raised Over Proposed Changes to Māori Land Court Powers
Dale Husband
Posted On March 10, 2026
Download AudioDebate is intensifying over proposed government reforms that would remove the jurisdiction of the Māori Land Court in relation to post-settlement governance entities, with critics warning the changes could weaken protections for hapū and whānau.
The reforms are being advanced by Māori Development Minister Tama Potaka as part of a wider programme of legislative adjustments affecting the governance of Treaty settlement organisations.
Under the proposed changes, certain disputes involving settlement entities would no longer fall under the oversight of the Māori Land Court. Instead, affected parties could be required to pursue legal action through the High Court.
Supporters of the reforms argue the changes are intended to streamline governance arrangements and provide greater operational flexibility for post-settlement governance entities, often known as PSGEs. These organisations were established to receive and manage Treaty settlement assets on behalf of iwi and claimants.
However, critics say the removal of Māori Land Court oversight could shift power away from hapū and grassroots beneficiaries, reducing the ability of communities to challenge decisions made by settlement bodies.
The Māori Land Court has historically played a key role in overseeing Māori land matters through processes that recognise tikanga Māori and prioritise accessibility for whānau and hapū involved in disputes. Some legal advocates say moving disputes into the High Court system may create barriers for those who cannot afford the cost of complex litigation.
Concerns have also been raised by some kaumātua and community leaders who argue that the Māori Land Court provides culturally grounded accountability mechanisms that help ensure settlement entities remain connected to their tribal communities.
The debate comes as the government simultaneously promotes initiatives aimed at strengthening Māori economic development. Earlier this week the minister highlighted support for a Māori-led technology company preparing to expand internationally, pointing to the growth of Māori innovation and entrepreneurship.
For some observers, the two developments highlight a tension between economic development initiatives and questions around governance and accountability within settlement structures.
Legal experts say the proposed reforms raise broader questions about how Treaty settlement entities should be regulated and how the rights of hapū and beneficiaries can be protected once settlements are finalised.
The issue also touches on wider discussions about the role of the Crown in shaping governance arrangements for iwi organisations and whether those structures adequately reflect the rangatiratanga guaranteed under Te Tiriti o Waitangi.
As the reforms move through the policy process, Māori leaders, legal scholars and community groups are expected to continue debating how best to balance efficient governance with the protection of hapū rights and tikanga-based accountability.
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