Te Tiriti o Waitangi / The Treaty of Waitangi
Understanding the Founding Document of Aotearoa
He aha te Tiriti? (What is the Treaty?)
The Treaty of Waitangi is an agreement signed in 1840 by representatives of the British Crown and many Māori chiefs (rangatira). It is considered New Zealand's founding document and plays a central role in the relationship between Māori and the Crown.
Two Versions, Big Differences
The English Version
- Article 1: Māori chiefs gave the Queen "all the rights and powers of Sovereignty".
- Article 2: Guaranteed Māori "full exclusive and undisturbed possession of their Lands and Estates, Forests, Fisheries and other properties".
- Article 3: Gave Māori the same rights as British subjects.
The Te Reo Māori Version
- Article 1: Māori chiefs gave the Queen "kāwanatanga" (governance).
- Article 2: Guaranteed Māori "tino rangatiratanga" (absolute chieftainship) over their lands, villages, and all their treasures ("taonga").
- Article 3: Gave Māori the same rights as British people.
The Three "P's"
Today, the relationship between the Crown and Māori is guided by the principles of the Treaty, often summarised as the three "P's".
Partnership
Māori and the Crown must work together on issues of common concern.
Protection
The Crown must protect Māori rights, including their language and culture.
Participation
Māori must be able to participate in decision-making that affects them.
Whakaarohia (Thinking Point) 🤔
A local council proposes building a new road through land that a local iwi considers a wāhi tapu (sacred site). How could the Three Principles of the Treaty be applied to this situation?
Partnership: How should the council and iwi work together here?
Protection: What does the council have a duty to protect in this scenario?
Participation: What would meaningful participation for the iwi look like?