Why is the Treaty Principles Bill of concern to all New Zealanders?

Before 1840 Maori appealed to King William (the Crown) for protection from ‘troublesome and vicious’ Europeans living in their midst. The resultant Treaty of Waitangi promised protection of Tino Rangatiratanga (self-governance) and taonga treasured by Maori as essential for their well-being, particularly, their whenua/land.

Sadly, the Crown/Government soon ignored that legal agreement for Pakeha’s gain. Wholesale suffering and harm to both Maori and the environment ensued. The current Treaty Principles Bill threatens to permit ongoing degradation of our peoples’ and environment. The Maori call for valuing manaakitanga/care, kaitiakitanga/protection, whanaungatanga/relationship-building and  kotahitanga/unity based on just principles need to be heard and supported urgently at the government level. All New Zealanders are being called to visibly stand against the resource-grabbing and ongoing environmental degradation that could result from the passing of the Treaty Principles Bill.

Avril Manley, Greerton