Maori Affairs Act 1953

The Maori Affairs Act 1953 was legislation enacted in New Zealand to govern land, governance, and social issues involving Māori people. It aimed to promote Māori welfare, manage Māori land, and integrate Māori communities into broader society, while maintaining some aspects of tribal authority and land rights. Over time, it facilitated government control over Māori affairs, impacting land ownership and development policies. The Act reflected the government's approach to Māori issues during that period, shaping policies until it was eventually replaced by more modern legislation focused on Māori self-determination and land management.