Māori Land Court marks 159 years of history and change

The Māori Land Court celebrated its 159th anniversary on October 30, marking its establishment in 1865. Originally called the Native Land Court, it aimed to convert Māori land claims into legal titles. The court's structure limited land ownership to a maximum of 10 owners, excluding many Māori from legal recognition. This allowed recognized owners to manage or sell land, often benefiting personally. Historian Dr. Aroha Harris noted that the court's design facilitated the transfer of Māori land to the Crown and ultimately to Pākehā settlers.