Māori Protesters March on New Zealand Capital Over Controversial Treaty Bill
In a display of unity and cultural pride, tens of thousands of Māori protesters marched on New Zealand's parliament, also known as the Beehive, in Wellington. The reason? Opposition to the bill proposed by ACT Party leader David Seymour, which looks at redrafting the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi—the foundational document of New Zealand. That march culminated in a powerful expression of Māori resistance and identity, bringing together Indigenous and non-Indigenous New Zealanders in one of the country's largest protests in decades.
What Triggered the Protests?
The Treaty of Waitangi, signed in 1840, is a cornerstone of New Zealand governance and indigenous rights. It has two versions: English and Māori, with differing interpretations. The treaty promised co-governance and the protection of Māori interests, but its implementation historically led to confiscation of land, loss of autonomy, and cultural suppression.
David Seymour’s bill, called the Treaty Principles Bill, seeks to redefine these principles. Proponents argue for universal application, while critics warn it undermines Māori rights and risks reversing progress on historical grievances.
The Hīkoi: A Journey of Protest
The protesters undertook a hīkoi—a traditional Māori march symbolising solidarity and resistance. Starting at Cape Reinga, the hīkoi travelled the length of the North Island, gathering supporters along the way. After nine days, it reached Wellington, where 42,000 people filled the streets outside Parliament.
Protesters waved tino rangatiratanga flags, sang traditional songs, chanted the haka, and carried placards urging lawmakers to reject the bill. It was described as a "generational moment", with both Māori and non-Māori supporters uniting.
Eru Kapa-Kingi, a leader of the hīkoi, addressed the crowd:
"Today the Māori nation is born. Every single one of you has dedicated yourself to a future in which we value our ancestors and restore ourselves to the truth of our rangatira."
The Haka: A Symbol of Resistance
At the heart of the protest was the haka—a traditional Māori dance involving vigorous movements and chants. While often associated with sports as a display of national pride, the haka holds deeper cultural significance as a call to action, celebration, or defiance.
During the protest, Māori lawmakers performed the haka inside Parliament, disrupting voting on the bill.
The haka stands as a declaration of identity, unity, and a determination to protect ancestral rights.
What is at Stake with the Controversial Bill?
The Treaty Principles Bill has sparked heated debates. David Seymour argues that the treaty's interpretation has led to "special treatment" for Māori, creating societal division. He proposes enshrining treaty principles in law for equal application.
Critics, however, contend that the bill undermines Māori sovereignty and jeopardises efforts to address social and economic disparities. Former prime ministers, legal experts, and Māori leaders have condemned the bill as divisive and unconstitutional.
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has assured that the bill will not pass, with most parties vowing to oppose it. Nevertheless, it has reignited a national conversation about Indigenous rights and the treaty's role in governance.
A History of Activism and Treaty Rights
The Māori protests are part of a legacy of activism dating back to the 1970s, when Māori began pursuing legal challenges, negotiations, and demonstrations to address treaty breaches, revive their language, and influence laws based on treaty principles.
The establishment of the Waitangi Tribunal in 1975 marked a significant step toward addressing historical grievances and recommending redress.
The current protests continue this legacy, symbolising Māori resistance against the erosion of treaty rights.
Role of Māori MPs and Te Pāti Māori
Māori lawmakers, particularly those in Te Pāti Māori, have been at the forefront of opposing the bill. They disrupted Parliament with a haka during the bill’s first reading.
Hana-Rāwhiti Maipi-Clarke, an MP, tore apart a copy of the bill during the haka, symbolising her dramatic resistance.
Te Pāti Māori leaders have declared:
"Te Tiriti is forever."
This emphasises the treaty's enduring significance as a cornerstone of New Zealand's identity.
Why the Protest Rings Outside the Māori Community
The hīkoi has resonated with many non-Māori New Zealanders, who see the proposed legislation as a threat to national unity.
Alice Soper, a non-Māori protester, remarked:
"This isn't just about Māori, it's about all of us. The government is bartering away the relationship it has with Māori for political might, and that affects everyone."
The protest has also highlighted concerns about broader government policies, such as plans to disestablish the Māori Health Authority. For many, the march represents a defence of progress in recognising Māori sovereignty and addressing inequality.
A Peaceful Protest, A Powerful Message
Despite its scale, the protest remained peaceful, with no reported disturbances. Organisers ensured an atmosphere of joy, solidarity, and celebration, turning Wellington’s streets into a vivid display of Māori culture.
Even the Māori Queen, Nga Wai Hono i te Pō, joined the protests. Her involvement signalled the issue’s importance, with her spokesperson stating:
"The Māori Queen is prepared to take the lead in debating nationhood and unity but will not accept any process that undermines the treaty."
What’s Next?
The hīkoi symbolises the beginning of a new chapter in the fight for Māori rights. As Kapa-Kingi declared:
"Today is not the end—it is the beginning of a new chapter for the Māori nation."
The march reminds all New Zealanders that the Treaty of Waitangi is a living testament to the country’s identity and values. It is a call to honour promises made long ago and ensure a future where justice and equality prevail for Māori.
For the Māori, this protest was not merely about opposition—it was a declaration of existence, resilience, and hope.
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