No more 'public domain' in seabed legislation

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The Government is to scrap the term "public domain" in Foreshore and Seabed legislation to go before Parliament next week.

A spokesman for Treaty Negotiations Minister Chris Finlayson confirmed the term was changed but said it would not be "controversial".

Mr Finlayson has previously called it "public space". "It's much ado about nothing. It's not like people had a huge attachment to the term foreshore and seabed or public domain."

It is understood one of three options is the Maori word for seashore "takutaimoana".

Under the legislation, which repeals Labour's contentious 2004 act, the foreshore and seabed will be removed from Crown ownership. It will become a domain with public access guaranteed.

Iwi will be able to seek customary rights and title through the court or negotiation with the Government but must prove exclusive use since 1840. Customary title will sit alongside the public's right to have access to the foreshore.

Critics have said using "domain" gives non-Maori New Zealanders a sense of ownership.

- © Fairfax NZ News