Treaty Negotiations Minister Chris Finlayson says there is iwi support for a time limit on foreshore and seabed claims.
The Marine and Coastal Area (Takutai Moana) Bill now before Parliament includes a six-year deadline for filing claims either with the High Court or the government.
Waiariki MP Te Ururoa Flavell says the length was a compromise, with the Maori Party wanting 10 years and National four.
Mr Finlayson says it came from talking to iwi, many of whom have had negotiations put on hold while the whole question has been looked at - "so it's really for the benefit of iwi, so we can get some closure on this issue."
Mr Finlayson says the bill is at the top of the order paper for debate this week.
