Māori Protesters March to Parliament Against Controversial Treaty Principles Bill

Māori activists have staged a large-scale Hīkoi mō te Tiriti march in response to the government's controversial Treaty Principles Bill. The proposed legislation, which seeks to redefine the Treaty of Waitangi, has sparked widespread protests over concerns it undermines Māori rights and sovereignty.

11/26/20242 min read

Tens of thousands of Māori protesters have completed a historic nine-day Hīkoi mō te Tiriti (march for the Treaty), culminating in a massive demonstration outside New Zealand's parliament in Wellington. The march, which covered over 1,000 kilometers (621 miles) from the country’s far north, was in response to the controversial Treaty Principles Bill. Critics argue that the bill, introduced by the right-wing ACT New Zealand party, seeks to reinterpret the 1840 Treaty of Waitangi between the British Crown and Māori chiefs in ways that undermine Māori rights and sovereignty.

The final stretch of the peaceful protest saw around 42,000 people gather outside parliament, a show of unity described as a "generational moment" by participants. The bill has sparked political upheaval, with opponents, including Māori lawmakers, accusing the government of attempting to dilute the Treaty’s founding principles of co-governance and Māori protection. Prime Minister Christopher Luxon acknowledged the significance of the protest but reiterated that the bill would not pass its second reading.

The historic march concluded with a concert, a kārakia (prayer), and a farewell ceremony at Wellington’s Waitangi Park, marking the end of what has become one of the largest protests in New Zealand’s recent history.

How Does This Impact You as a Student Sitting for the NZLPE Conversion Course?

At this stage, the ongoing debate surrounding the Treaty Principles Bill does not directly impact the content of your NZLPE Conversion Course. The legislation has not yet passed, and there have been no immediate changes to New Zealand’s laws regarding the Treaty of Waitangi or Māori rights that would affect the course curriculum.

However, should there be any future changes to legislation that impact the interpretation or application of Treaty principles, it could potentially affect the Tikanga Māori component of your studies. Tikanga Māori, which involves understanding Māori customs, protocols, and rights, is an important part of the course content and may be influenced by any shifts in government policy or law regarding the Treaty.

Rest assured, VPR is closely monitoring developments related to this issue. If any legislative changes occur, the course content will be reviewed and updated accordingly to ensure it aligns with the most current legal and cultural frameworks. We are committed to keeping you informed and ensuring that your studies reflect the most up-to-date and relevant information.