Rationale Behind the Treaty Principles Bill Sparks Outrageous Debate

The controversial Treaty Principles Bill has sparked heated debate, with opponents arguing that it would undermine the principles of equality and fairness in New Zealand society. Proponents, on the other hand, believe that granting tino rangatiratanga – Māori sovereignty – is a necessary step towards addressing historical injustices and promoting equitable outcomes.

**Background**

The Treaty Principles Bill was introduced to Parliament in November 2024, with the goal of establishing a framework for recognizing and implementing the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi. The bill aims to provide greater recognition and protection for Māori rights and interests, particularly in areas such as land ownership, cultural preservation, and social welfare.

**Opposition to the Bill**

One of the most vocal opponents of the bill is ACT Party leader David Seymour. In a video shared on the party’s social media page, Seymour expressed his disagreement with Te Ngahue, a Māori woman who created an educational video about the bill. Seymour argued that the bill would create a “society based on two different types of people” and failed to present the “full picture”.

Te Ngahue countered Seymour’s argument, saying that his statement – “What is good for everyone is good for Māori” – was a lie. She pointed out that Māori have significantly higher rates of incarceration, poverty, and poor health outcomes compared to non-Māori.

**Tino Rangatiratanga**

For Te Ngahue, tino rangatiratanga is not just about Māori sovereignty, but about providing better solutions for those affected by colonization. She believes that granting tino rangatiratanga would allow New Zealand to “fix things that are objectively undeniably broken in the system”. In her view, tino rangatiratanga is a way forward to ensure equitable outcomes for all New Zealanders.

**The Hīkoi**

As the bill made its way through Parliament, thousands of protesters gathered outside the Beehive on November 19, 2024. The hīkoi – a traditional Māori procession – aimed to raise awareness about the bill and express opposition to its passage. Despite the opposition, Te Ngahue remains committed to her cause, saying that “anyone who actually understands what tino rangatiratanga is will be on board with it because it’s not scary. It’s good for everyone and nobody misses out on anything”.

**Conclusion**

The controversy surrounding the Treaty Principles Bill highlights the ongoing need for greater recognition and protection of Māori rights and interests in New Zealand society. While opinions on the bill are divided, one thing is clear: the debate is an opportunity to engage with complex issues and explore innovative solutions that promote fairness and equality for all.