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A Treaty expert says Maori Party MP Hone Harawira's latest take on the foreshore and seabed issue may be a way forward for New Zealand.
The Harawira wants Maori to be given full customary title of the foreshore and seabed.
But he also wants all New Zealanders to have full access, forever.
Treaty Historian Dr Paul Moon says the sentiment is a new one from Harawira, but not surprising because there was always going to have to be compromise.
He says some opponents of the Foreshore and Seabed Act think if it's repealed they'll come up with an alternative which vests full ownership with hapu and iwi.
But Moon says realistically, it's not an option.
He says Hone Harawira's idea actually echoes the recent proposal for the Auckland volcanic cones.
Meanwhile, the Waitangi National Trust is calling this year's Waitangi Day commemorations a delightful success, despite a smaller than expected turnout.
Just over 30,000 people visited the Treaty Groundsm well short of the 50,000 expected.
However, Trust spokesman Michael Hooper says in all respects, the day was a success.
He says the crowds were peaceful, the Prime Minister enthusiastic, the Diplomatic Corps back and there was a record number of community and market stalls.
Hooper says the fact Waitangi Day wasn't part of a long weekend probably contributed to the smaller turnout.
