26 Nov 2014

First District Court hearing at marae

10:21 am on 26 November 2014

The first District Court hearing at a Northland marae is being described as progressive and significant.

Last week, fisherman Patau Tepania appeared at a special special session of the Kaitaia District Court at Roma Marae in Ahipara.

Mr Tepania faced six charges for filling fisheries paperwork late and was discharged without conviction.

Catherine Murupaenga-Ikenn, who gave evidence in support of Mr Tepania, said the haukainga (local people) asked to have the hearing at the marae and the judge agreed.

She said courts are usually alien places that remind Maori of historic injustices and believed it was the best setting to help move the case to a fairer result.

Ms Murupaenga-Ikenn said photos of their tupuna (ancestors) were all around and Mr Tepania's tupuna was above the judge.

Rangatahi Courts, and on occasion the Coronial Court, are held on marae.