Rangitāne: Te Tiriti Principles Missing in Government’s Regulatory Bill

Rangitāne o Wairau has submitted feedback on the proposed Regulatory Standards Bill, urging the Government to strengthen the Bill’s alignment with Te Tiriti o Waitangi.

The submission highlights concerns that the Bill, in its current form, does not adequately reflect the Crown’s obligations under Te Tiriti, nor does it safeguard Māori rights and self-determination. Rangitāne calls for the Bill to adopt a Tiriti-centric approach to regulatory standards, ensuring that Māori rights and governance structures are protected within the regulatory framework.

Kaiwhakahaere Matua (General Manager) Corey Hebberd says, “Te Tiriti o Waitangi is a living covenant that must be central to any regulatory framework in Aotearoa. The Regulatory Standards Bill is a significant opportunity for the Government to uphold its Tiriti commitments and protect Māori rights for future generations.”

The Rangitāne submission outlines key recommendations, including the inclusion of a Tiriti clause, Māori impact assessments for regulatory proposals, and provisions that accommodate tikanga Māori governance models.

“Our submission reflects our commitment to advocating for a future where Māori rights and tino rangatiratanga are recognised, respected, and upheld”.