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flag New Zealand passed a law clarifying customary marine title rules after a 2024 court decision expanded claims.

flag New Zealand's Parliament passed the Marine and Coastal Area (Takutai Moana) (Customary Marine Title) Amendment Bill on October 21, 2025, to clarify and strengthen the criteria for recognizing customary marine title (CMT). flag The law, originally enacted in 2011, requires proof of continuous, exclusive use and occupation of coastal areas since 1840. flag The amendment responds to a 2024 Supreme Court ruling in Re Edwards that broadened CMT awards, leading to large coastline claims. flag The government says the change restores Parliament’s original intent, ensuring CMT is granted only in well-documented, specific areas. flag CMT grants rights over resource consents, non-nationalized minerals, and coastal development, while allowing public access and infrastructure. flag The bill now becomes law.

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