Kahawai – “strong in the water”.

Today marks the 15th anniversary of the day the Supreme Court ruled on the Kahawai Legal Challenge.

On May 28th 2009 the Supreme Court found that while the Minister has wide discretion when making fisheries management decisions, the allowances that must be set aside for Māori customary and recreational interests must be reasonable, in all circumstances. And, that in some circumstances, when providing for our social, economic and cultural wellbeing, it may be reasonable for the Minister to fix the commercial catch limit at zero.