Brown is one of a handful of Ngāi Tahu at the huts who believe they should be able to keep living there because of their heritage.
Non-Ngāi Tahu bach owners say if that happens it would be discriminatory, and legal action could follow.
All 32 bach owners, including five who are Ngāi Tahu, have to be out by June 30 next year, or be evicted.
Ngāi Tahu says sea level rise, issues with wastewater removal and drinking water supply, and the cultural significance of the area are reasons for ending hut leases.
Selwyn Times revealed last week Brown went to Taumutu rūnanga, the closest marae to the settlement, seeking to stay.
The rūnanga voted 11-10 to ask Ngāi Tahu to allow Brown and the four others to remain.
Brown’s son, Les, said a meeting with Ngāi Tahu had been “pencilled in” for September 3, but it had yet to be confirmed.
Brown has asked the other four Ngāi Tahu bach owners also be allowed to attend the meeting.
Les said Environment Canterbury councillor Craig Pauling would mediate for them.
“It’s very emotional. Dad’s been there (at the huts) for more than 60 years,” said Les.
In June, Selwyn Times revealed Ngāi Tahu was planning to establish a mahinga kai centre of excellence on the site, surprising bach owners.
Bach owner Ross Wilson said if the bid to allow Ngāi Tahu residents to stay at the huts was successful, it would be discriminatory for those who still had to go.
“We’re all Kiwis. It’s a bit damn rough if your own kind stay and evict the others. I think that’s pretty rugged,” he said.
Brown said he could see how it could be seen as discriminatory.
“I could see how they would perceive it that way.”
Brown said if Ngāi Tahu accepted the request, it would give non-Ngāi Tahu hut owners leverage to fight the eviction.
Meanwhile, Selwyn MP Nicola Grigg says the Government will not get involved in the saga.
“I have corresponded periodically with the Greenpark Huts residents as and when they’ve approached me for advice or information, and have sympathy for their situation,” she said.
“However, this is a private property matter between them and Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu. I have advised residents that the expiration of their leases is not a Government matter.”
- Additional reporting by Daniel Alvey
