Toitu Te Tiriti

Hīkoi mō te Tiriti: When Marching Meets Parliament—A Story of Unity!

Tens of thousands unite in Wellington for the Hīkoi mō te Tiriti, calling for Māori rights and decolonization! Did someone say protest party?

In a vibrant and electric atmosphere, the Hīkoi mō te Tiriti culminated today at the New Zealand Parliament, drawing tens of thousands of marchers to Te Upoko-o-te-ika-a-Māui in Wellington. Organized in response to ongoing challenges regarding the Treaty of Waitangi, this monumental gathering saw over 42,000 people converge in Waitangi Park before making their way to Parliament, showcasing a powerful collective voice in the ongoing fight for Māori rights and decolonization. With chants of "Kill the bill, kill the bill!" echoing through the streets, it was clear that the marchers were not backing down from their demands for justice and recognition.

As the hīkoi progressed, supporters arrived from around the country, including convoys from Petone and Porirua. The energy surged as marchers rolled into Parliament, an event amplified by live coverage from TVNZ+, which provided the visuals of this historic moment. Prime Minister Christopher Luxon acknowledged the significance of the day, while the ACT Party leader David Seymour faced a chorus of disapproval from the crowd, reminding everyone of the passionate stakes involved in this movement.

Yet, this hīkoi wasn't just a protest; it was a celebration of culture and resilience. Colorful banners waved, traditional Māori haka performances electrified the atmosphere, and community spirit flourished amidst the seriousness of the demands being made. With such a large turnout, the event highlighted the growing call for solidarity and unity among New Zealand's diverse communities as they rally against perceived injustices and strive towards a future that acknowledges the Treaty of Waitangi's importance.

As the dust settles on this historic day, it serves as a reminder that the fight for Māori rights continues. Activists assert that even if the controversial bill discussed in Parliament is unlikely to pass, the very existence of such proposals threatens to unwind decades of progress towards equity and representation. The resounding voices from today's hīkoi echo the sentiment shared by many: that unity is strength, and decolonization is a journey that will not be overlooked.

Did you know that the Treaty of Waitangi was signed in 1840 and is considered New Zealand’s founding document? It’s a critical point around which the rights and status of Māori are interpreted today! Also, this hīkoi is part of a broader social movement—its roots lie deep in New Zealand’s history as people continue to seek justice, acknowledgment, and action!