New Zealand’s parliament was temporarily brought to a standstill when opposition MP Hana-Rawhiti Maipi-Clarke performed a haka (traditional Māori group dance) in protest against a controversial bill that seeks to redefine the 1840 Treaty of Waitangi. The bill, which aims to legally define the treaty’s principles, sparked widespread anger and concern among Māori groups and supporters of indigenous rights.
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At the same time, a 10-day hīkoi (protest march) organized by a Māori rights group made its way towards Wellington, with thousands of participants voicing their opposition to the bill. The march, which started in the far north of New Zealand, reached Auckland on Wednesday and continues on its 1,000 km journey.
The Act Party, which introduced the bill, argues that it’s necessary to clarify the principles of the Treaty in law to ensure fairness and equality. However, critics warn that the bill could divide the country and weaken the rights of Māori people. While the bill passed its first reading in parliament, it faces uncertainty as it moves forward, with coalition partners of the Act Party signaling they may not support it. The ongoing protest and the fierce debate highlight the deep divisions over how New Zealand should approach its founding treaty.
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