The government has announced plans to conduct a review of the Waitangi Tribunal in order to refocus its inquiries back to its original intent. The review, part of the coalition agreement between New Zealand First and National, will be led by an Independent Technical Advisory Group (ITAG), with support from Te Puni Kōkiri.
Established in 1975, the Waitangi Tribunal was initially tasked with investigating breaches of the Treaty of Waitangi. Over the years, its scope expanded to include events dating back to 1840. Māori Development Minister Tama Potaka highlighted the need for a review given the progress of historical claims and settlements, as well as concerns about the Tribunal’s workload.
The ITAG, chaired by legal expert Bruce Gray KC, will assess the clarity of the legislation governing the Tribunal’s inquiries, the management of different types of claims, and the alignment of the legislation with other laws. The review aims to ensure that the Waitangi Tribunal remains relevant, effective, and fit for purpose for future generations.
‘Increasingly activist’ – Seymour welcomes review
Act leader David Seymour expressed support for the review, emphasizing the importance of completing historic Treaty settlements while cautioning against the Tribunal’s perceived activism. He believes it is necessary to reestablish the Tribunal’s role within the government’s policymaking process.
Engagement for the review is set to begin in mid-2025, with recommendations expected to be provided to ministers by September. Proposals resulting from the review are anticipated to be introduced before the end of the year.
