Skip to Main Content

Comparative Indigenous Law


Official NZ Legislation 


Legislation ​

Māori are subject to most of the same laws that apply to all New Zealanders. There are however, laws that apply specifically and only to Māori. These laws are contained in the Laws of New Zealand on Lexis+ Australia (UniMelb staff & student access) under two headings:

Māori Affairs

This title includes the following topics. Each topic links to the relevant legislation. Commentary and significant cases are listed.

  • Statutory Maori Organisations
  • Government Agencies
  • Culture and Heritage
  • Education
  • Individuals and their Families
  • Social Services
  • Justice
  • Māori Land
  • Minerals and Mining
  • Forestry
  • Fisheries
  • Environment and Conservation
  • Treaty of Waitangi
  • Miscellaneous Provisions Affecting Māori

Māori Land

This title is arranged by topic, and links to commentary on the topic. Topics include the history and evolution of Maori Land Law, governance, utilisation and management of Maori land, alienation, administration of estates, and the Maori Land Court. The commentary includes references to legislation and cases.