The Waitangi Tribunal has recently completed its urgent hearing in relation to the foreshore and seabed.

The urgent hearing was held in Wellington at the WestpacTrust Stadium over six days from 20-23 January and 28-29 January 2004.

During the first two days the Tribunal heard evidence from tangata whenua witnesses from throughout New Zealand.  On the third day of the hearing the Tribunal heard evidence from an economist and witnesses for the Crown.  The last three days were taken up by submissions from claimant and Crown counsel.

The Waitangi Tribunal consisting of the Presiding Officer Judge Wainwright and Tribunal members Joanne Morris and Mr John Clarke reserved its decision.  A decision from the Tribunal is expected to issue prior to the enactment of the Crown’s foreshore and seabed policy.

Rainey Collins appeared on behalf of clients of the firm.