It was a landmark judgement on a more than 20-year court saga surrounding Māori customary rights to the foreshore and seabed. 

The Supreme Court's allowing an Attorney-General appeal against a Court of Appeal judgment, made in October last year.   

It's rejected the judgment as a narrow interpretation of criteria for customary marine titles, and reaffirmed the role of tikanga Māori in guiding decisions.  

Former Treaty Negotiations Minister Chris Finlayson told Ryan Bridge it's a significant decision that could nullify the need for the Government's amendment bill. 

He says it may have been better to wait for the Supreme Court to deliver its decision before proceeding with legislation.  

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