Waitangi Tribunal to hold priority inquiry into climate change policy...

On 9 February 2024 the Deputy Chairperson of the Waitangi Tribunal granted an application for a priority kaupapa inquiry into the Crown’s acts and omissions in relation to climate change.

Kaupapa inquiries are designed to provide a pathway for the Waitangi Tribunal to hear claims relating to nationally significant issues affecting Māori.

The claimants allege that the New Zealand Government’s response to the threat of global climate change is in breach of the Treaty of Waitangi.

In granting the priority kaupapa inquiry, the Deputy Chairperson directed that the focus of the inquiry should be on the physical, spiritual, and socioeconomic impacts of climate change on Māori, and the Crown’s response to these impacts. The inquiry should also provide recommendations for how the Crown can meaningfully engage with Māori.

Judge Stephanie Milroy has been appointed as Presiding Officer of the inquiry panel. Prue Kapua, Emeritus Professor David Williams, Basil Morrison and Kevin Prime make up the remainder of the inquiry panel.

If you need assistance to bring, or progress, your Waitangi Tribunal claim, it is helpful to speak to a professional with experience in this area.