Haka Protest Shakes New Zealand Parliament Against Controversial Treaty Bill

In a powerful display, New Zealand MPs performed a haka within parliament to protest a contentious bill aimed at redefining the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi, sparking widespread demonstrations and public discontent.

New Zealand's parliament experienced a dramatic disruption as members performed a haka in response to growing anger surrounding a controversial bill aimed at reinterpreting the Treaty of Waitangi, the country’s founding document concerning Māori rights. The event unfolded when opposition MP Hana-Rawhiti Maipi-Clarke led the traditional Māori war dance after being pressed on her party's stance regarding the legislation, which faced its initial vote on Thursday.

Simultaneously, a peaceful protest march known as a hīkoi, organized by Māori rights advocates, continues its journey toward Wellington. Thousands have joined this 10-day march, which commenced in the far north and reached Auckland Wednesday after crossing a significant distance.

Though New Zealand is often hailed for its progressive stance on indigenous rights, there are rising concerns that the proposed bill threatens these very rights. The Act party, which introduced the legislation, argues for a legal definition of the Treaty of Waitangi's principles, asserting that the treaty’s historical context has been misinterpreted in various courts. However, critics fear that this bill could further divide the nation and diminish essential support for Māori communities.

The ruling coalition backed the first reading of the bill after a half-hour recess, with opposition party members vocal about their dissent. Maipi-Clarke faced suspension from the parliament floor following the haka demonstration, highlighting the tensions surrounding this contentious issue. Although the coalition partners have indicated reluctance to support a second reading of the bill, protestors remain undeterred, marching tirelessly along their 1,000km route.

During the Auckland leg of the hīkoi, approximately 5,000 participants took two hours to traverse the Harbour Bridge, a march that led to the temporary closure of some lanes to accommodate the demonstrators. Danielle Moreau, a Māori mother participating in the march with her sons, expressed her intentions to emphasize the significance of the Treaty of Waitangi to New Zealand's national identity.

Statements from participants underscored a unified stand for an inclusive and respectful future for New Zealand’s children and grandchildren, a sentiment echoed by Māori nationalists against any proposed alterations to the treaty principles. The bill proposes defining foundational treaty principles, including government rights to legislate, the Crown’s respect for Māori rights, and equality for all citizens under the law.

Nevertheless, Act leader David Seymour, also the associate justice minister, maintains that the lack of legal definitions has allowed opposing court interpretations that undermine equal rights. Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, engaging in the debate, termed the legislation "divisive," indicating potential rifts within the ruling coalition.

In contrast, the Waitangi Tribunal cited concerns over the lack of consultation with Māori in the bill’s creation, suggesting that it breaches foundational principles of partnership with Māori communities. With ongoing protests and a mixed political response, the bill will now advance to a select committee for a six-month public examination process, as significant discussions about Māori rights and treaties continue across New Zealand.