MACA | Manaia Update

For the Manaia area, the Takutai Moana application is still in preparation. It is currently anticipated that the application will be structured into two separate High Court hearings, reflecting the different characteristics of the rohe. The first hearing is expected to focus on Manaia Harbour, followed by a second hearing addressing the Manaia coastline.

Evidence gathering for Manaia is expected to begin in early 2026. Recent amendments to the Marine and Coastal Area (Takutai Moana) Act have raised the legal threshold for recognising customary marine title, and these changes are currently being reviewed by the applicant’s legal counsel. This review will inform the type, scope, and depth of evidence that needs to be gathered to support the application.

Once evidence has been prepared and filed, and subject to High Court timetabling, a hearing is anticipated in the latter part of 2026 or during 2027. As with all Takutai Moana applications, timeframes remain dependent on Court scheduling and procedural requirements.

Updates will be shared as this work progresses.