Thousands rally in NZ in support of Māori rights
Thousands of people participated in protests across New Zealand on Thursday, expressing anger over what they say is a government erosion of Māori rights. The demonstrations coincided with the centre-right coalition government’s announcement of its first budget, which included tax cuts and outlined savings in sectors such as housing and conservation.
The finance minister rejected claims that funding cuts targeted programs benefiting Māori, asserting that the new initiatives would benefit all New Zealanders. However, since the government took office in October, it has faced allegations of undermining the agency of Indigenous people in New Zealand.
The protests, known as hikoi, took place in major cities including Wellington, Auckland, Tauranga, and Christchurch. Some protests involved car convoys on motorways, causing traffic disruptions. Protesters waved the red, white, and black Māori flag, a symbol of Māori independence.
One protester, Christina Taurua, stated outside the parliament buildings in Wellington, “We are here to have a voice and support those working to make things right, not just for us Māori but for all New Zealanders.” Demonstrators expressed concern that political policies and initiatives aimed at improving Māori health services and other issues were being dismantled too quickly.
This protest marked the second large-scale demonstration since the new government took power, attracting a significantly larger crowd than the first. Later on Thursday, the Māori Party, one of six parties in New Zealand’s parliament, issued a Declaration of Political Independence and announced plans to establish a separate parliament for Māori people. They stated this effort aims to transform New Zealand into a nation that respects Indigenous sovereignty and provides a safe home for all.
Māori individuals constitute roughly 17% of New Zealand’s population. They remain disadvantaged compared to the general population, as indicated by disparities in health outcomes, household income, education levels, incarceration rates, and mortality rates. There is a notable seven-year gap in life expectancy between Māori and non-Māori New Zealanders.