6 Sep 2010

Foreshore bill tabled in Parliament

9:06 pm on 6 September 2010

The legislation replacing the Foreshore and Seabed Act has been tabled in Parliament.

The Marine and Coastal Area Bill will have its first reading on Thursday.

The law would allow Maori to gain customary title of the foreshore and seabed, but only after meeting a tough test proving they have had exclusive use and occupation of the relevant areas since 1840.

Attorney-General Chris Finlayson says the legislation will still allow guarantee public access to the foreshore and seabed.