Maori MPs Stage Haka in Parliament Amid Controversial Treaty Bill Protests

A spirited haka performance by Māori MPs disrupted parliamentary proceedings in New Zealand as a reaction to a contentious bill seeking new interpretations of the Treaty of Waitangi.

New Zealand's parliament was momentarily paused when MP Hana-Rawhiti Maipi-Clarke led a haka, a traditional Māori dance, in protest against a proposed bill aiming to redefine the country's foundational treaty with Māori people. The action coincided with a hīkoi, or peaceful protest march, organized by Māori rights advocates which is making its way to Wellington. This march, which began in the far north of the country, has gathered momentum, bringing thousands together over a 10-day journey opposing the legislation.

The proposed bill has ignited fierce debate, as it is perceived by many as a potential threat to established Māori rights. Advocates for the bill, introduced by the Act party, assert that it is necessary to legally clarify the principles of the 1840 Treaty of Waitangi—crucial for race relations in New Zealand. However, critics argue the bill threatens to dismantle the progress made towards racial equity and may lead to further division in society.

The Act party's leader, David Seymour, claims that existing treaty interpretations have led to racial division and insists the bill will result in fairer parliamentary proceedings rather than court interventions. In contrast, opponents fear that the changes could erode crucial support for Māori communities and disrupt social cohesion.

On Thursday, after a student-led protest, the first reading of the bill passed following a brief recess, with support from the ruling coalition—though future passage remains uncertain due to dissent within the coalition. Critics continue to voice their discontent while the peaceful march advances along its set route, drawing attention and solidarity from segments of the Māori population.

Around 5,000 participants engaged in the Auckland leg of the hīkoi, taking approximately two hours to traverse the iconic Harbour Bridge. Many marchers, including Danielle Moreau with her two children, voiced their commitment to the significance of the Treaty of Waitangi for New Zealand's identity. Another participant, Winston Pond, expressed the need for recognition of the multicultural base built on Māori heritage.

Testimonies from other demonstrators echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the desire for a respectful and inclusive Aotearoa for future generations. The proposed legislation is controversial as it aims to legally define the treaty principles but has raised concerns regarding the already tenuous position of Māori rights within New Zealand society.

Supporters of the bill argue the need for legal clarity to prevent what they describe as inconsistent court interpretations that could subvert equal rights provisions. Nevertheless, the Waitangi Tribunal has critiqued the legislation, advocating for more extensive consultation with Māori communities, alleging violations of good faith obligations.

The legislative debate highlights ongoing complexities in New Zealand, where disparities persist across health, education, and societal outcomes for Māori, who represent roughly 18% of the population. As the bill moves to a select committee for further public scrutiny, advocates for Māori rights remain vigilant. The Treaty of Waitangi signed in 1840 remains a pivotal issue in New Zealand's contemporary socio-political landscape, intertwining historical grievances with current legislative efforts.