Most Māori fisheries are based out of regions that are crying out for new opportunities, jobs, and a reason for Māori to return to their whenua and papakāinga. This reform has the potential to help make a real difference to the Māori fishing industry and to the future prosperity of rural iwi. Under the current law, when there is disagreement between regional iwi groups over how aquaculture assets from a Treaty settlement can be shared, it can mean iwi are left unable to receive their assets and to use them indefinitely. The intent of this amendment bill is to better facilitate the timely distribution of iwi aquacultural settlement assets where disputes arise regarding the proposed allocation. Submitters have stated that aquaculture presents significant opportunities for iwi and Māori. For example, in the Bay of Plenty there has been significant investments in aquaculture to support regional development, creating jobs for hapū, whānau, and iwi. Many other regions are keen to take advantage of this opportunity when settlements are released.