Made-Up Principles - How the Principles of the Treaty of Waitangi Bill Disenfranchise Established Rights of Māori

Abstract

The Principles of the Treaty of Waitangi Bill sparked remarkable protest in Parliament itself where Māori lawmakers used haka, a traditional Māori dance form, demonstrating strength and unity (the video went viral). It was also a key focus of what was likely the largest political protest ever seen at New Zealand’s Parliament, with 40,000-50,000 people descending on Parliament grounds and the surrounding streets on 19 November 2024. The Bill is so controversial because it would mean a change to the way in which rights and obligations under the Treaty of Waitangi are recognised in New Zealand law.

Keywords

• Maori
• Maori
• Neuseeland. Parlament
• Neuseeland. Waitangi Tribunal
• New Zealand
• Principles of the Treaty of Waitangi Bill