Maori make big claims for New Zealand coastline

From Morning Report, 7:35 am on 2 May 2017

More than 150 claims have been made for the ownership of New Zealand coastline.

Maori by iwi leader Maanu Paul has made a claim for the entire coastline, and 25 miles out to sea

Maori by iwi leader Maanu Paul has made a claim for the entire coastline, and 25 miles out to sea Photo: RNZ

The claims were filed under the Marine and Coastal Area Act, the legislation that replaced the highly controversial 2004 Foreshore and Seabed law.

Under the law claims had to be filed by last weekend.

The biggest claim is one made for all Maori by iwi leader Maanu Paul...

Mr Paul spoke to Te Manu Korihi reporter Shannon Haunui-Thompson about his claim for the entire coastline, and 25 miles out to sea.

Mr Paul says the Crown has failed in its responsibility to protect the environment, and it's time Maori were given back their rights.