Foreshore review chance to improve on a good deal

The Foreshore and Seabed Act review's findings could result in the iwi leading the pack on negotiating foreshore and seabed rights coming out with an even better deal than it already has with the Government.

Last year, Te Runanga o Ngati Porou was the first to sign an agreement, which gave its hapu greater management rights over the marine environment.

Its bill has been on hold in Parliament pending the review's findings.

Spokesman Matanuku Mahuika said the runanga was relaxed about what could happen, as it had been given an undertaking that its agreement was safe.

But there was potential for an improved settlement if the Government did decide to make changes to the law.

One aspect that might change was the "onerous" process Ngati Porou had to go through to prove territorial customary rights in the High Court .

Iwi confederations such as Marutuahu, which has interests from the Coromandel north through Auckland, say the review could mark a significant change.

Marutuahu had claims before the Waitangi Tribunal and Maori Land Court before the legislation nullified them.