Indigenous Peoples' Rights and Copyright: Wai 262

Abstract

Maori culture has been exploited for a long time and it is still popular for companies to use taonga works or taonga-derived works for advertisements and other commercial gain. This paper discusses the insufficient way Maori culture especially taonga works, taonga-derived works and matauranga Maori are protected. The second part of the paper introduces the recommended reform as described in the Waitangi Tribunal's Report 2011 about the Wai 262 claim. After the proposed commission and the objection process are presented they will be critically analysed. The scope of the proposed reform and the impact on other intellectual property rights will be looked at.