The New Zealand aquaculture industry contributes significantly to regional development and the national economy, generating, in 2008, $600 million in revenue and employing 3,000 people, largely based in the regions. Māori have a significant presence in the aquaculture industry and have significant aspirations to increase that. This bill will ensure that iwi can access their aquaculture assets within an appropriate time frame. It will improve the delivery of the Crown's aquaculture settlement obligations, it will protect the interests of iwi who do not wish to claim their aquaculture settlement assets at this time, and it will support iwi aquaculture aspirations as well as further support the growth of the aquaculture industry. 