To analyse the historical and contemporary context of political interaction between the New Zealand Government and the indigenous people of Aotearoa and how that interaction has impacted upon the sustainability of the seabed and foreshore. The seabed and foreshore ownership issue has been prominent not only within New Zealand but also oversees press, culminating in the 40,000 strong Maori led hikoi (march) to the nation's capital, earlier this year. The issue threatens to be a key election issue for the next round of voting (2005). The paper will illustrate that depending on who is in political power, this will ultimately have a bearing on the economic, cultural, social and environmental sustainability of that resource.

Malcolm writes for several newspapers and magazines throughout Aotearoa. The title of his column is Te Haaro O Te Kaahu - Through the Eye of the Hawk. He offers a Maori opinion through mainstream media. He is also a researcher, having graduated from the University of Canterbury (B.A. Maori/History). Topics researched include Treaty claims, Maori rugby, Bioengineering and the Seabed and Foreshore.