Vesting and Use Act 1978

In 1977, the 506 day long Bastion Point protest commanded public attention.

But, behind the scenes, Ngati Whatua elders were quietly commanding Crown attention.

They were arguing that land taken under the Public Works Act, that had not been used for the declared purposes, should be returned.

The government of the day responded with a Committee of Enquiry.

Their task was to "ascertain the interests of various parties" and make recommendations to the Minister of Lands.

Out of this process agreements were reached and the Orakei Block (Vesting and Use) Act 1978 was enacted.

The Act, firstly, recognised the Ngati Whatua o Orakei Maori Trust Board as the appropriate body to entrust returning lands to.

And it specified the duties and responsibilities of the Trust Board and beneficiaries.

Secondly, the Act designated Tuperiri as the ancestor that Board beneficiaries must descend from.

Then, the Act provided for the cancellation of certain reserves held by the Crown since 1948.

Next, certain lands were vested in the Ngati Whatua O Orakei Maori Trust Board for housing, open space, recreation, church, burial and Maori purposes.

Also certain land was vested in the Housing Corporation while other lands were set aside to be administered by Auckland City Council and Youthline respectively.

While this Act did not answer every prayer, it seemed some smaller prayers were being heard. At last.