Massive Protest Erupts in New Zealand Over Controversial Treaty Bill
Tens of thousands of people gathered outside New Zealand’s Parliament in Wellington on Tuesday to oppose the Treaty Principles Bill, a proposed law that critics say undermines the rights of the Māori people. This massive demonstration, described as one of the largest in recent history, capped a nine-day march—or hīkoi—that began in the country’s far north and drew widespread support along its route to the capital.
What is the Treaty Principles Bill?
The bill, introduced by David Seymour, leader of the libertarian ACT New Zealand party, aims to reinterpret the 184-year-old Treaty of Waitangi. The treaty, signed in 1840 between the British Crown and hundreds of Māori chiefs, is widely considered New Zealand’s founding document. It laid the foundation for co-governance and Māori rights but has been a source of ongoing debate due to differences in its English and Māori versions.
Critics argue the bill seeks to narrow the treaty’s application and reverse decades of policies aimed at addressing Māori inequities, and the legislation has faced strong backlash from both Māori and non-Māori communities.
Seymour, however, argues that these policies have resulted in preferential treatment for Māori and seeks to define the treaty’s principles in law, applying them universally to all New Zealanders. His stance has drawn widespread criticism, with many accusing him of attempting to undermine Māori sovereignty and historical redress efforts.
Despite the uproar, the bill is not expected to become law. ACT’s coalition partners, the National Party and New Zealand First, supported the first reading of the bill but have stated they will not back it in subsequent votes. Critics argue, however, that the bill’s mere introduction has caused political upheaval and threatens to divide the nation.
What has happened during the protest?
Protesters, some dressed in traditional Māori attire and carrying sovereignty flags, gathered outside Parliament chanting “kill the bill” and performing the haka, a traditional war dance. Tukukino Royal, one of the marchers, described the event as a “generational” moment of unity and pride in Māori identity.
Protest leaders emphasised the importance of the Treaty of Waitangi in protecting Māori rights. Hīkoi organiser Eru Kapa-Kingi declared, “Te Tiriti is forever,” reinforcing the enduring significance of the treaty.
The Māori version of the treaty guarantees protections for Māori lands, culture, and governance, rights that have been increasingly recognized through legal rulings and government policies over the past 40 years.
“We’re fighting for our tamariki [children], for our mokopuna [grandchildren], so they can have what we haven’t been able to have,” said protester Shanell Bob, who joined the march in Wellington.
The march culminated in a diverse crowd of around 42,000 people, including schoolchildren, local politicians, and community leaders. Signs denouncing the bill and celebrating Māori heritage filled the streets surrounding Parliament, while protesters climbed trees and structures to witness the historic gathering.
For many participants, the protest was about more than opposing the bill—it was a stand for Māori identity and self-determination. As marcher Tukukino Royal stated, the event showcased “kotahitanga,” or unity, in the face of political adversity.
While the bill’s fate remains uncertain, the protest has reignited a national conversation on Indigenous rights, colonisation, and the role of the Treaty of Waitangi in modern New Zealand.
