Property, Power and the Pacific: Fast-Tracking Seabed Mining in Aotearoa New Zealand

Abstract The paper utilises Yong-Shik Lee’s ‘general theory of law and development’ (GToLD), particularly the second part of that theory pertaining to ‘regulatory impact mechanisms’ (RIMs). It uses Lee’s theoretical framework to examine how the fast-tracking of seabed mining (and associated legislative changes) reflects deepening tensions between property rights, environmental stewardship and indigenous guardianship in Aotearoa New Zealand. The paper uses Lee’s theory to assess whether the New Zealand Coalition Government’s law changes, especially the Fast-Track Approvals Act 2024 and the Regulatory Standards Act 2025, will achieve their desired aims of achieving economic growth.