Each one of the more than 500 Maori claimants for customary rights and title to the foreshore, coast and marine areas can apply for up to $412,000 of taxpayers' money from the National government, under the auspices of Chris Finlayson, for each claim.

Should you wish, as a taxpayer, to challenge the claim it could cost you $55,000 in unsubsidised court fees. Maanu Paul of the Maori Council believes that 14.6 per cent of our population are entitled to control the entire coastline. Your objection must be made within 20 working days of April 25, 2017. An auspicious date. How would the Gallipoli veterans view such blatant racism?

B Johnson, Omokoroa.