Sarah McMillan/cvnznews.com
ACT has unveiled a major constitutional proposal: complete all remaining historical Treaty settlements, end the Waitangi Tribunal’s contemporary powers, and wind the institution up once its historical work is finished. Party leader David Seymour says the Tribunal has drifted far from its original purpose and now acts as a parallel policymaking body — something he argues New Zealanders never voted for.
Seymour says the Tribunal played an important role in addressing historical grievances, especially where the Crown confiscated land or breached property rights. But he argues its modern form — with urgent inquiries and Kaupapa investigations into current government policy — has expanded into territory that belongs to elected governments, not appointed commissioners.
“As we approach 2040, two centuries since the signing of the Treaty, it is time to complete the historical settlements and move New Zealand forward,” Seymour said.
ACT’s plan has four parts: 1. Complete all remaining historical claims lodged before 1 September 2008. 2. End the Tribunal’s jurisdiction over contemporary Crown policy. 3. Strengthen property rights in the Bill of Rights so all New Zealanders have equal legal protections. 4. Wind up the Tribunal once its historical work is finished.
The proposal has already drawn strong reaction. Some constitutional scholars say the Tribunal’s contemporary inquiries have become increasingly influential, shaping debates on health, education, water governance and justice. Critics argue removing that oversight risks weakening accountability for Crown actions affecting Māori communities.
Others, including several former Treaty negotiators, say ACT’s plan reflects public frustration with a process that feels never‑ending. One negotiator told CVNZ News that “New Zealanders were promised full and final settlements — not a permanent constitutional referee.”
Community voices are also divided. Some Māori leaders say winding up the Tribunal would undermine protections for Treaty rights, while others argue the institution has become too politicised and needs clearer limits.
A Debate That Will Define 2040
ACT says its reforms would ensure “one law for all” and prevent the Tribunal from steering government policy. Opponents say the move risks reopening old wounds rather than closing them.
Either way, the future of the Waitangi Tribunal is now firmly on the election agenda — and the debate over its role is only just beginning.
