Waitangi Day Marred by Protests Over Treaty Redefinition Bill

New Zealand's national holiday sees tensions rise as Māori leaders and activists oppose legislation viewed as undermining Indigenous rights.

Waitangi Day, commemorating the 1840 Treaty of Waitangi between Māori chiefs and the British Crown, was marked by protests against a proposed Treaty Principles Bill.
The bill, championed by the ACT Party, seeks to redefine the treaty's interpretation, sparking widespread opposition for potentially reversing Māori rights gains.
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon chose to attend ceremonies in the South Island, avoiding the main Waitangi events, which drew criticism from Māori leaders and opposition politicians.
Protests against the bill included Māori activists turning their backs on ACT leader David Seymour during his speech and removing his microphone in silent defiance.
The proposed bill has faced record opposition, including a nine-day march and over 300,000 public submissions, though it is unlikely to pass into law.