Sir Eddie Taihakurei Durie, a name synonymous with the Waitangi Tribunal’s history, has been hailed as one of the most influential figures in its 50-year journey. Serving as chair for nearly two decades, Sir Eddie played a defining role in shaping the Tribunal’s direction and deepening its bicultural foundations.
Taking over from Chief Judge Kenneth Gillanders Scott in 1980, Sir Eddie introduced a process that was both inclusive and respectful of Māori traditions. He ensured that hearings were held on marae and that claimants could speak in te reo Māori, a significant step toward recognising Māori voices in addressing historical grievances, RNZ reported.
Speaking to RNZ as the Tribunal celebrated its golden jubilee, Sir Eddie said he was proud of how far it had come but believed the next generation should chart its future course.
“I don’t think I’ll be around for the next 50 years,” he said. “How the process must go, that’s for the new generation to decide,” as quoted by RNZ.
He reflected on how every generation views life differently, shaping their own priorities and interpretations of justice. Yet, he emphasized, the Tribunal’s purpose had remained consistent from the very beginning.
RNZ quoted, “Our objective has always been to create a place for both peoples,” he said. “That means listening to Māori voices, understanding their concerns and finding ways to honour and integrate them within New Zealand’s system.”
Former broadcaster and Tribunal member Derek Fox, who once shared a flat with Durie, described him as a quiet but deeply influential leader.
“He’s not a loud person,” Fox said. “His calm and steady approach helped the Tribunal operate in a more Māori way, beyond the confines of traditional legal procedures,” quoted RNZ.
Sir Eddie was among the many prominent figures attending the Waitangi Tribunal’s 50th-anniversary conference at Te Tumu Herenga Waka marae in Wellington. The gathering brought together a remarkable lineup, including former Prime Minister Sir Geoffrey Palmer, former Chief Justice Dame Sian Elias, Supreme Court Justice Sir Joe Williams, and King’s Counsel Chris Finlayson, alongside judges and Tribunal members past and present.
Judge Alana Thomas, a presiding officer of the Tribunal, said the event showcased the extraordinary calibre of people who had contributed over the decades.
“It’s wonderful to look back at the pioneering work of people like Sir Eddie Durie and Dame Sian Elias,” she said. “When they met again after years, it truly felt like a moment in history,” as reported by RNZ.
Dr Hana O’Regan, another member of the Tribunal, described the atmosphere at the conference as inspiring and emotional.
“You can’t help but feel humbled by the collective knowledge and experience in the room,” she said. “This celebration is not just about achievements but also about the immense dedication and sacrifice of so many people,” RNZ quoted.
The conference opened with a tribute from Dr Ruakere Hond to those who had contributed to the Tribunal’s work and have since passed away.
As the Waitangi Tribunal marks 50 years of service, Sir Eddie Durie’s quiet wisdom and enduring vision remain central to its legacy, a legacy built on listening, respect, and a shared commitment to the spirit of Te Tiriti o Waitangi.
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