Following a case lodged with the Waitangi Tribunal on Friday by the NZ Māori Council, questions have emerged as to whether the case is legitimate or simply vexatious litigation.
There are three claims in total, all relating to the review currently underway of the Māori Community Development Act, the founding legislation of both the NZ Māori Council and Māori Wardens.
This is the latest claim by the NZ Māori Council to the Waitangi Tribunal, a claim that has sparked the question of whether it's legitimate or merely vexatious. There's no denying the Māori Council has lodged a number of claims recently. However, co-chair Sir Eddie Durie says they're not apologising.
The latest claim by the Māori Council refers to the process of its review by the Crown. The council arose through an agreement between the Crown and Māori, so the council claims, Māori should be at the decision-making table.
Since the review began a month ago, both sides of the argument have emerged. Some Māori suggest the council be disestablished altogether.
We requested an interview with the Minister of Māori Affairs and his ministry, Te Puni Kōkiri.
No one was available for comment.