Treaty Principles Bill Hikoi Set to March Towards Wellington as Māori Unity Takes Center Stage

A nationwide hīkoi against the controversial Treaty Principles Bill has begun, with supporters gathering in the small Far North town of Te Kāo to kick off a nine-day journey south towards Wellington. The event, organized by Toitū te Tiriti, aims to promote Māori unity and opposition to government policy, which had been expected to be tabled at Parliament on 18 November.

The hīkoi is not a new phenomenon in New Zealand’s history, with previous events taking place in 1981 and 2014. However, the current iteration has garnered significant attention due to its focus on Māori unity and opposition to the Treaty Principles Bill.

In a statement posted to the Toitū te Tiriti Instagram page, Eru Kapa-Kingi, organiser of the hīkoi, expressed disappointment with the timing change but maintained that no changes would be made to the planned route. “We always knew a shuffle like this would come along, this is not unexpected from this coalition, they have shown us who they are for the past year,” Kapa-Kingi said.

The bill was tabled earlier than expected on 7 November, which many Māori leaders labelled as an attempt to undermine the hīkoi. However, Kapa-Kingi stated that the timing change does not matter and that the hīkoi will continue with its original plan.

Police have warned that some disruptions are likely on roads and highways as the hīkoi passes through. Superintendent Kelly Ryan said that police will keep Waka Kotahi and local councils updated about the roads, allowing drivers in each area to find updates. She recommended travellers “plan accordingly.”

The New Zealand Transport Agency (Waka Kotahi) also stated that it would monitor the impact of the hīkoi on highways and provide real-time updates on any delays or disruptions.

To address the concerns of Māori communities, Toitū te Tiriti has established a list of participating iwi and hapū. These groups will be represented by their own leaders and representatives, who will work alongside other supporters to ensure the hīkoi remains peaceful and lawful.

As the hīkoi begins its journey, it is essential to understand the history behind these events. A look at previous hīkoi in New Zealand reveals that they have played a significant role in shaping the country’s politics and identity.

*Previous Hikoi:*

1. 1981 Hikoi: This historic event marked a turning point in Māori activism, as thousands of protesters marched on Parliament to demand greater representation and recognition.
2. 2014 Hikoi: The second iteration of the hīkoi took place three years after the 2011 elections, where it aimed to press for greater Māori participation in governance.

The Toitū te Tiriti hikoi is not just about opposition to the Treaty Principles Bill but also about promoting Māori unity and self-determination. As Kapa-Kingi said, “Bills come and go, but Te Tiriti is infinite, and so are we; our plans will not change.”

In conclusion, the Toitū te Tiriti hikoi marks a significant moment in New Zealand’s history, as Māori communities come together to assert their rights and promote unity. The event highlights the importance of listening to and amplifying Māori voices, ensuring that their perspectives are considered and respected in the country’s decision-making processes.

The hikoi will arrive on Parliament grounds on 19 November, having gathered supporters from across the motu over the past nine days. As the hīkoi continues its journey, it is essential to stay informed about the event and its impact on New Zealand politics.

Road Closures and Disruptions:

Due to the hīkoi, some roads and highways may experience disruptions. Please check for updates from Waka Kotahi and local councils before embarking on your journey.

Hikoi Route:

The Toitū te Tiriti hikoi will take the following route:

* Te Kāo, Far North
* Paihia, Bay of Islands
* Auckland
* Wellington

Please plan accordingly and allow for extra time to reach your destination.