So the beach grab begins. I received this information today that as at May 2011, three iwi have lodged claims under the new foreshore and seabed act. Others will be proceeding shortly now the election is done and dusted. Iwi were essentially told by the Attorney General no claims will be considered prior to the election. Secret code for wait until after we are re-elected first then go for it. The known claims are.
Te Raroa – the lower half of Ninety Mile Beach and the coast from Ahipara to Hokianga Harbour, including Herekino and Wangape harbours, and the northern side of the Hokianga P orou ki Hauraki – Kennedy Bay south past Whangamata, east Coromandel
And surprise, surprise Ngati Pahauwera – claims in coastal northern Hawke’s Bay
Don’t know what the Hawkes Bay areas are as Chris Tremaine’s and his Government are trying to keep it a secret. You can ring him and ask him of course but don’t expect to much help. So far the only way anyone has been able to find out anything is by going through the OFFICIAL INFORMATION ACT. In other words they really don’t want you to know so ae making it really hard to find out.
Already a number of claimants are looking to utilise the Wahi tapu clause within customary title. Just a pleasant reminder for you all that this will give exclusive rights to successful tribal claimants to set up wahi tapu – areas where the public is forbidden from going, and can be convicted and fined up to $5,000 if they do. The tribe is allowed to appoint its own wardens to patrol these areas. As well, fisheries officers will patrol them and will prosecute any people not authorised by the tribe to fish there.
This will probably be around Mohaka somewhere, the beach maybe? Who knows. Enjoy the fishing while you can chaps and don’t forget to sign the referendum.