Iwi leaders have rejected the government's latest proposal to establish the Kermadec Ocean Sanctuary.
More than forty iwi organisations have voted overwhelmingly to reject the plan, saying an indigenous led approach is the only way forward.
Former Prime Minister Sir John Key announced the sanctuary in 2015 but push back from iwi and political parties has stalled progress since.
Environment Minister David Parker says recent indications were that the parties were close to an agreement.
He spoke with Corin Dann.
