Providing for Rāhui in the Law of Aotearoa New Zealand

Abstract

This article examines the place and nature of rāhui (Māori ‘temporary protection’ for natural resources) in the law of Aotearoa New Zealand. The word “rāhui” is used in legislation in New Zealand to describe certain conservation areas and associated conservation agreements, and to denote some particular means or measures that can be used for conservation or sustainability purposes, including in fisheries management. The authors discuss the differences between this legislative construct of rāhui, and the term as originally understood.