During day four of the Treaty principles bill hearings, the Justice Committee heard submissions from various individuals, including former National Party minister Hekia Parata and Christian evangelist Julian Batchelor in support of the bill, while barrister Maui Solomon and others criticized it. Local Government New Zealand’s co-chairs Iaean Cranwell and Toni Boynton also spoke against the bill, highlighting concerns about unsettled relationships and established jurisprudence. Former New Plymouth Mayor Andrew Judd and author Bradford Haami expressed their opposition, with Judd emphasizing harmful attitudes and Haami discussing the potential marginalization of hapÅ« rights. Karen Feint and former prime minister Sir Geoffrey Palmer, along with a group of 50 king’s counsel, also submitted against the bill, citing concerns about improper court actions.
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Govt pledges $4.5m boost to QEII National Trust
Conservation Minister Tama Potaka announced a $4.5 million funding boost for QEII National Trust to support partnerships with landowners in creating protected areas under covenants. The Trust has a successful track record in safeguarding biodiversity habitats, with a focus on lowland and coastal zones, protecting 187,000ha of land over 50 years. Additional funding of $5.8 million annually for the next three years will benefit the Trust and Maungatautari Ecological Island Trust Sanctuary, ensuring continued conservation...
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