As the nation mourns the passing of Kiingi Tuheitia and reflects on the values of unity and mutual benefit embedded in Te Tiriti o Waitangi, we are reflective of the opportunity to take stock, regroup and recommit.
Unfortunately, a recent Cabinet meeting to discuss the controversial Treaty Principles Bill continues in ‘heated’ debates across Aotearoa. It is not the first debate and the ‘stove element’ just keeps getting ‘hotter’. Despite widespread opposition Prime Minister Christopher Luxon confirms that the Bill will be introduced in November. The Coalition agreement, founded in 2023, has been ‘distastefully’ prioritized over Te Tiriti o Waitangi, which already has a very ‘warm seat’ in founding our nation since 1840.
Numerous voices, including over 400 church leaders, over 230 community organizations, over 20 distinguished Te Reo translators, opposition parties, multiple iwi, and the Waitangi Tribunal, have all expressed their concerns, collectively and individually. They caution against allowing the Treaty to be redefined or manipulated for political purposes. Proceeding with the Treaty Principles Bill is seen as an attack on Te Tiriti by the government and a divisive move driven by short-term political gain. Critics argue that tino rangatiratanga, is not being acknowledged. The agreement between equal nations, should not be treated as a mere addition but as the essence of the partnership between Māori and the Crown. Too many cooks in the kitchen, spoil the broth. But so might 3 cooks, working from the same recipe book, digging for multiple hangi!
In response to the developments, a movement called “Together for Te Tiriti” has emerged, organised by Action Station. It calls on people across Aotearoa to show their support by rejecting the Treaty Principles Bill and standing against the erosion of indigenous rights, that accepting it could dangerously ensure. By standing together in solidarity, the people of Aotearoa aim to reaffirm their commitment to a future based on respect, unity, and justice for all.
People are encouraged to order placards and print posters so that they can be hung on shop windows, office buildings, garden fences and be seen in demonstration of a commitment of respect for Te Tiriti. By displaying placards and posters in communities across the country, supporters aim to send a clear message to decision-makers that unity and respect for Te Tiriti o Waitangi are non-negotiable.
I think this is a peaceful gesture. Hopefully we can prevent ‘3rd degree burns’ for all of us as we uphold Te Tiriti o Waitangi for the purposes in which it was intended – to keep us all ‘warm’ in the face of cold winters ahead.
