Redefining the Principles of the Treaty of Waitangi: A National Debate
The Principles of the Treaty of Waitangi Bill has been introduced by David Seymour and the ACT party to redefine and legislate the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi, seeking to clarify how these are interpreted and applied in New Zealand law.
NZCCSS opposes the Bill and calls for it to be abandoned.
Why it matters
Te Tiriti o Waitangi, considered the founding document of Aotearoa, has guided the relationship between Māori and the Crown since 1840. Its principles have evolved over time, reflecting an ongoing dialogue about how to uphold the commitments of Te Tiriti in modern contexts.
Passing of this bill would be harmful to Māori by undermining their te Tiriti rights to self-determination and would remove their voice on issues that they rightfully have a stake in as treaty partners with the Crown.
The Waitangi Tribunal are judges and experts on the interpretation of te Tiriti. For the last 50 years they have established what te Tiriti means for historical breaches and current day issues. The Waitangi Tribunal reviewed the Bill and found that:
This [Bill] would be the worst, most comprehensive breach of the Treaty / te Tiriti in modern times.
Where is the Bill now?
The bill passed its first reading on 14 November 2024 with support from the three governing parties and has been referred to the Justice Committee for a six-month review process.
Who Is Reviewing the Bill?
The Justice Committee, chaired by first-term National MP Jason Meager and deputised by Jamie Arbuckle of NZ First, is responsible for reviewing the bill. Other committee members include:
- National MPs Cameron Brewer, Paulo Garcia, and Rima Nakhle.
- Labour MPs Ginny Andersen, Tracey McLellan, and Duncan Webb.
- Tākuta Ferris (Te Pāti Māori), Tamatha Paul (Green Party), and Todd Stephenson (ACT Party).
Meetings have started, although early sessions are behind closed doors. Public hearings, where submitters can present their views, will begin next year.
How to Have Your Say
The Justice Committee is inviting submissions from the public, which can be submitted in English or te reo Māori. Submissions close on 7 January 2025 and can be made:
- Online: Via the Parliament website here.
- Post: Address submissions to:
Principles of the Treaty of Waitangi Bill
Committee Secretariat
Justice Committee
Parliament Buildings
Wellington
For help understanding the submission process and a guide to writing your own submission, you can read our Guide to Government: Writing a Submission.
You can also read our submission in opposition to this Bill.
Public Reaction
The bill has sparked significant public interest and debate. While some see it as a step towards clarity, others have expressed concern about the potential implications for Māori-Crown relations and the Treaty’s partnership principles. Protests, including hikoi and demonstrations in Parliament, underline the importance of this discussion to many across Aotearoa.
Looking Ahead
The Principles of the Treaty of Waitangi Bill marks a critical moment in how the Treaty’s role is understood and applied. NZCCSS encourages thoughtful dialogue and collaboration to ensure that Te Tiriti’s promises of equity, justice, and partnership are upheld.
