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Ngai Tahu Considers Stricter Pounamu Export Regulations Amid Breaches

4/1/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Ngai Tahu holds ownership of pounamu after the 1997 settlement, with Ta Tipene O'Regan linking it to Te Waipounamu.
The iwi is frustrated by breaches of the 5kg export limit and is considering removing it.
A court case against two Chinese nationals accused of illegally exporting pounamu could set a stricter regulatory precedent.
Customs Minister Casey Costello is open to reviewing the threshold, while Ngai Tahu leaders emphasize guardianship.

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Story summary

Ngai Tahu holds ownership of pounamu after the 1997 settlement, with Ta Tipene O'Regan linking it to Te Waipounamu.
The iwi is frustrated by breaches of the 5kg export limit and is considering removing it.
A court case against two Chinese nationals accused of illegally exporting pounamu could set a stricter regulatory precedent.
Customs Minister Casey Costello is open to reviewing the threshold, while Ngai Tahu leaders emphasize guardianship.