Treaty Partner: relationships with tangata whenua

The Ministry interacts with tangata whenua on a number of different levels. This interaction will continue to increase. Treaty settlement processes often include fisheries matters. In addition we continue to implement the customary fishing regulations and have ongoing consultation obligations in the Fisheries Act 1996. Maori are now the largest players in New Zealand's commercial fishing industry. Tangata whenua can manage their non-commercial customary fishing activity through customary regulations. Maori are also substantial recreational fishers.

The Fisheries Act 1996 requires the Minister to provide for the input and participation of tangata whenua in sustainability decisions that affect their non-commercial interests. The Ministry currently consults with over 100 iwi and hapu on matters affecting fisheries. The Treaty Strategy, discussed earlier, is the major Ministry initiative directed at building better working relationships with tangata whenua, and improving the delivery of legislative obligations.

Te Ohu Kai Moana is the successor organisation to the Treaty of Waitangi Fisheries Commission, with responsibility to allocate settlement assets in accordance with the Maori Fisheries Act 2004. As assets are distributed to iwi the Ministry will include mandated iwi organisations.