Victoria University of Wellington

Carwyn Jones

Made-Up Principles

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.

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