ABSTRACT
This chapter argues that a key driver in the assertion of Maori rights has been the desire to fulfil stated responsibilities to the natural world and to generations. It traces some of the history of Maori responsiveness to the historical and continued dispossession and destruction of the lands and waters. The Earth Charter was developed to focus attention on environmental devastation, depletion of resources and extinction of species occurring as a result of economic over-exploitation of ecosystems. The chapter focuses on domestic case studies to illustrate the strong similarities between indigenous laws and values and the principles of responsibility. The history of Maori responsiveness demonstrates flexibility and pragmatism in strategies to reconcile grievances. New Zealand participated from the early stages of drafting the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous People. New Zealand is a water-rich nation, it faces the challenges of climate change and environmental devastation as a result of the over-exploitation of ecosystems.
