New Zealand Institute of Surveyors
Government Land Planning & Design
New Zealand Institute of Surveyors, ,
2005
This New Zealand Institute of Surveyors report for Hui Taumata delves into the complexities and challenges of land tenure in the context of developing Māori land assets.
It offers an analytical examination of the land tenure systems as they pertain to Māori lands, highlighting the unique historical, cultural, and legal factors that impact the effective utilisation and development of these lands. The document underscores the significance of land to the Māori people, not just as an economic resource but also as a vital component of their cultural identity and heritage. The Institute critically evaluates existing land tenure arrangements and their efficacy in facilitating or hindering the development of Māori land assets. It presents a detailed discussion on the constraints posed by traditional land tenure systems, including issues related to fragmented ownership, legal complexities, and challenges in land management and decision-making processes. The publication also explores potential reforms and innovative approaches that could enhance the economic development of Māori land while respecting its cultural significance. As the report notes, tenure in collective ownership is common in many countries and need not preclude the full facility for owners for enjoyment or the productive use of their land. New Zealand could benefit from accepting Māori land as not simply in a transitional stage moving towards individual title but as an alternative form of group ownership which needs to be accommodated in our formal land administration system.
