The Waitangi Tribunal is slamming the previous Government for rushing Treaty of Waitangi settlement claims.
In its latest mandate claim report, the Tribunal found there was a lack of balance in the Whakatōhea iwi's claims process.
But former Treaty of Waitangi Minister Chris Finlayson says they have got it wrong.
"I think they have got it completely wrong when they say that political considerations outweighed the need for the Crown to secure a just and durable settlement," he argues.
"The core finding that it was politically rushed to suit the previous Government's political purposes is insulting to the Crown and to me personally."
Mr Finlayson says a lot of "very careful work had gone into negotiations".
However the Tribunal says those opposed to the Crown's decision have good reason to feel their concerns were not given a fair hearing.
It recommends a temporary halt to negotiations in order that all of Whakatōhea be given a chance to vote on how to proceed.
Newshub.
