Evolution of the relationship between tangata whenua, the Crown and resource management

Abstract

This paper outlines the relationship between tangata whenua and the Crown to natural resources as envisaged by the Treaty of Waitangi 1840 and the Resource Management Act (RMA) 1991. The RMA has been hailed as a progressive Act which perhaps embodies a new paradigm arising from a shift in western philosophy, but whether the Act deserves such praise is questionable. Maori participation is limited to consultation which is dependent on the goodwill and sincerity of local government. It is argued that the recognition of Maori values is hindered by the monocultural nature of the present institutional structures. By incorporating an alternative ethic it is suggested that participation can be more fundamentally and thoroughly achieved.