Introduction

In a powerful address at Parliament, Wellington’s Mayor Tory Whanau has voiced strong opposition to the proposed Treaty Principles Bill, warning of its potential to undermine the foundational values of Aotearoa New Zealand. One Network Wellington Live brings you an in-depth analysis of her submission, the implications for Wellington, and the broader societal impact of this contentious legislation.

The Mayor’s Stand at Parliament

During her oral submission, Mayor Whanau did not mince words, describing the bill as a “dangerous step” that could incite anti-Māori sentiment. “This bill threatens the very foundation of our nation, Te Tiriti o Waitangi,” she declared, emphasizing the treaty’s role as a cornerstone of New Zealand’s identity and governance. Her plea to Parliament was clear: reject this legislation to preserve the integrity of our society and the rights of Māori.

Understanding the Treaty Principles Bill

The Treaty Principles Bill, put forward by its proponents, aims to redefine the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi, suggesting that current interpretations have led to race-based policies that unfairly advantage Māori. However, this perspective is contested by many, including Mayor Whanau, who argue that the bill misrepresents the situation, ignoring the systemic disadvantages faced by Māori communities.

Impact on Māori Rights and Equity

Whanau highlighted that despite the treaty’s intent to ensure partnership and equity, socio-economic data paints a stark picture of Māori disadvantage. According to recent statistics from the Ministry of Health, Māori have a life expectancy that is on average 7.3 years less than non-Māori. Similarly, educational attainment figures from the Ministry of Education show that only 22% of Māori students achieve University Entrance compared to 45% of non-Māori students. These disparities underscore the need for policies that address these inequities, not diminish them.

The Risk of Division

By attempting to alter the principles of Te Tiriti, the bill risks deepening societal divides. Mayor Whanau warned, “By attempting to redefine Te Tiriti principles, this bill will sow division and jeopardise the partnership between Māori and the Crown.” This partnership, established through Te Tiriti, is fundamental to New Zealand’s bicultural framework, promoting a shared journey towards reconciliation and mutual respect.

Wellington City Council’s Stance

In a decisive move last December, Te Kaunihera o Pōneke Wellington City Council, under Mayor Whanau’s leadership, passed a motion to oppose the bill vehemently. This decision was not made in isolation; it was supported by the Council’s Tākai Here partners and Pouiwi, indicating a broad consensus within Wellington’s governance and community leadership on the issue. The formal submission to Parliament last month was a collective effort, reflecting the city’s commitment to upholding Te Tiriti’s principles.

Local Implications for Wellington

For Wellington, a city known for its progressive stance on social issues, the bill’s potential passage could have profound local implications. Wellington has been at the forefront of initiatives promoting Māori culture and rights, from the revitalization of Te Ngākau Civic Square to include Māori design elements to the support for Te Reo Māori in public signage. The bill could undermine these efforts, affecting community cohesion and the city’s reputation as a leader in cultural inclusivity.

Community and Public Reaction

The reaction from Wellington’s community has been mixed but predominantly supportive of Mayor Whanau’s stance. Public forums and social media discussions have seen residents expressing concern over the bill’s potential to reverse gains in Māori representation and rights. A recent poll by One Network Wellington Live found that 65% of respondents in Wellington believe the bill would negatively impact race relations, with many calling for more public education on Te Tiriti’s significance.

National and International Perspective

Nationally, the debate around the Treaty Principles Bill has sparked discussions on what it means to be a nation built on a treaty partnership. Internationally, New Zealand’s handling of indigenous rights is watched closely, with the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples serving as a benchmark. The bill’s passage could affect New Zealand’s standing in global indigenous rights discourse, potentially drawing criticism for moving away from commitments to uphold these rights.

Conclusion

The Treaty Principles Bill represents a pivotal moment for Wellington and New Zealand at large. Mayor Tory Whanau’s opposition is not just about policy; it’s about preserving the ethos of a nation built on partnership and respect for its indigenous peoples. As Wellingtonians, our city’s response to this bill could set a precedent for how we navigate our multicultural future. One Network Wellington Live will continue to report on this issue, ensuring our community remains informed and engaged in this crucial conversation.

Note: This article is based on Mayor Tory Whanau’s submission, Wellington City Council’s actions, and statistical data from credible government sources. For the latest updates or to participate in discussions, stay connected with One Network Wellington Live.