NZ Parliament Votes Down Disputed Indigenous Legislation

• The bill was overwhelmingly defeated with 112 votes against it and only 11 in support.
• The failed legislation was part of the ACT New Zealand party’s agenda led by David Seymour.
• The movement for justice related to Te Tiriti o Waitangi continues onward.

WELLINGTON: On Thursday, New Zealand’s parliament decisively turned down a bill intended to redefine the principles of the nation’s founding treaty, following months of protests and discussions surrounding the status of indigenous Maori people in the country.

The Treaty of Waitangi was originally signed in 1840 between the British Crown and over 500 Maori chiefs, establishing how the two parties would govern. The interpretation of its clauses informs current legislation and policy.

This unsuccessful bill was promoted by David Seymour’s ACT New Zealand party, which received 8.6% of the party vote in the 2023 elections.

Seymour explained that the aim of the Treaty Principles Bill was for parliament to clarify the treaty’s principles, ensure certainty, and stimulate discussions about its significance in constitutional matters.

Although ACT’s coalition partners, National and New Zealand First, had agreed to support the bill through its initial reading, they later declined to endorse it becoming law.

The law required a simple majority for passage to its second reading but failed spectacularly, with 112 votes cast against it compared to just 11 in favor.

“The Treaty Principles Bill is no longer viable. However, our quest for justice concerning the Treaty of Waitangi continues,” remarked Marama Davidson, co-leader of the Green Party, which opposed the bill. “Rather than causing division, this bill has galvanized communities across the country in solidarity for our foundational agreement and its implications.”

The bill attracted considerable attention. In November, tens of thousands protested at New Zealand’s parliament against the bill, marking one of the largest demonstrations in the country’s history. The committee reviewing the bill also received a flood of submissions in opposition.