MACA | Pakikaikutu Update

Whangārei rohe – Marine and Coastal Area hearings update

The Marine and Coastal Area (Takutai Moana) Act hearings for the Whangārei rohe have progressed through two stages in the High Court, reflecting the scale of the area and the number of iwi and hapū involved.

Whangārei Harbour (Stage 1A)
The Stage 1A hearings, which focus on Whangārei Harbour, were held between February and May 2024. These hearings examined evidence relating to customary marine title and protected customary rights within the harbour, including whakapapa connections, tikanga, historical use, and ongoing responsibilities exercised by applicant groups. The hearings have now concluded, and the Court has reserved its decision, meaning a written judgment is awaited.

Whangārei Coast and Bream Bay (Stage 1B)
The Stage 1B hearings, covering the Whangārei Coast and Bream Bay, took place between August and October 2024. This stage involved 15 applicant groups, reflecting the complex and overlapping customary interests across the coastal area. As with Stage 1A, the Court heard detailed evidence from each applicant group, as well as responses from Crown agencies and other interested parties. These hearings have also concluded, and decisions are pending.

Ngāti Pūkenga participated in the Whangārei hearings as part of the High Court process. As with other Takutai Moana applications around the country, the timing of decisions is at the discretion of the Court. Once judgments are released, any recognised customary interests will be recorded on the Marine and Coastal Area Register.

Updates will be shared as decisions are issued.