The Government's been swamped with submissions on the Ngapuhi mandate.
The Office of Treaty Settlements says more than 2000 submissions came in by closing date last Sunday and there could be another 1000 in the mail.
The Ngapuhi runanga organisation, Tuhoronuku is claiming the right to settle the northern claims. It's strongly opposed by the hapu organisation Te Kotahitanga.
Treaty of Waitangi Negotiations Minister Chris Finlayson advertised the mandate last month and called for public submissions.
If he recognises it - negotiations on the last of the major land claims could begin immediately.
But a spokesperson says 2000 submissions on a mandate is a record: the usual number, depending on the iwi size, is 200 - 300.
Officials say they will analyse the submissions and report to Maori Affairs Minister Pita Sharples and Mr Finlayson late next month with advice.
