The Supreme Court is hearing an appeal from a Maori shareholder who claims he had the right to assault another person at Lake Horowhenua.
Philip Taueki is appealing against an assault conviction in November.
Taueki said his actions were to enforce bylaws including that the public not use motorised boats on the lake.
He said Maori beneficiaries to the lake have free unrestricted rights but the general public must adhere to the bylaws.
