Story perspectives
Moriori Trusts Claim Waka Ownership Amid Origin Disputes
10/6/2025
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Story summary
- The Hokotehi Moriori Trust and Moriori Imi Settlement Trust seek ownership of the waka; taonga remains Crown property.
- Judge Michael Doogan dismissed Catherine Sixtus's injunction; the decision cited the origin claims as speculative.
- Sixtus alleges German origins and possible carving by Sydney Parkinson.
- Expert evidence points to Polynesian roots; a full archaeological report is due February 2026.
