Why New Zealand Lawmakers Performed a Haka to Protest a Controversial Bill
Lawmakers from New Zealand’s Indigenous Māori community staged a haka—a traditional ceremonial dance—in Parliament to oppose a divisive Bill, invoking the historic Treaty of Waitangi between the Māori and the British Crown.
The protest, led by 22-year-old Māori Party MP Hana-Rawhiti Maipi-Clarke, followed a discussion on the Treaty Principles Bill, which aims to redefine the treaty’s principles. Maipi-Clarke tore up a copy of the Bill during the haka, joined by opposition MPs and spectators in the public gallery. The display briefly halted parliamentary proceedings.
What is the haka?
The haka is deeply rooted in Māori culture, symbolizing pride, strength, and unity. Historically performed by warriors to prepare for battle or to welcome visiting groups, it combines chanting, expressive facial gestures, synchronized movements, and rhythmic foot-stamping.
Modern hakas have transcended traditional settings. For instance, students performed it in tribute to victims of the 2019 Christchurch shootings. The All Blacks, New Zealand's national rugby team, have famously performed the haka before matches for over a century.
There are various types of haka, including:
- Peruperu: A war haka to intimidate opponents.
- Ngeri: A short haka meant to inspire and uplift spirits.
- Pōwhiri: A welcoming haka for formal ceremonies.
- Manawa wera: A haka expressing grief at funerals or memorials.
The haka performed in Parliament on Thursday was Ka Mate, composed by 19th-century Māori leader Te Rauparaha. Its lyrics celebrate survival and the triumph of life over death.
Why was the haka performed in Parliament?
Despite the haka protest and a temporary suspension of proceedings, the Treaty Principles Bill passed its first reading. Proposed by Act Party leader David Seymour, the Bill seeks to legally define the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi, signed in 1840 between the British Crown and Māori chiefs.
The treaty promised Māori rights to their land and resources in exchange for British governance. Over time, its principles—such as partnership, protection, and redress—have been developed through courts and tribunals to address the harms of colonization.
Seymour argues that legally defining these principles would ensure consistent interpretation and prevent racial divisions. However, critics, including Māori rights advocates, fear the Bill could undermine Māori rights and fuel anti-Māori sentiment. Even Prime Minister Christopher Luxon of the National Party has criticized the Bill as “simplistic.”
What’s next?
The Bill faces a challenging path, with significant public opposition. Māori rights groups have organized a 1,000-km protest march (hīkoi) to the capital, Wellington, to demand its withdrawal. Further parliamentary debates are expected to test its viability.
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