March for Maori: Protesting Treaty Reinterpretation

Hundreds embarked on a nine-day march to New Zealand's Wellington, protesting legislation affecting the Treaty of Waitangi. The march aims to spark dialogue on Maori relations. Organized by Toitu Te Tiriti, it highlights concerns over a bill that narrows treaty interpretations. Rallies will culminate in Wellington.

Hundreds of New Zealanders initiated a nine-day march towards Wellington on Monday to protest a legislative proposal that could alter the interpretation of a significant treaty related to race relations in the country.

The march kicked off after a ceremonial start at Cape Reinga, with convoys and marchers planning to hold rallies in various cities as they journey southwards. Eru Kapa Kingi, the spokesperson for Toitu Te Tiriti, expressed the marchers' intent to foster a wider discussion about the Maori people's relationship with New Zealand.

This protest comes in response to the Treaty Principles Bill, presented by New Zealand's centre-right government, intending to legislatively narrow the treaty's interpretation, potentially affecting decades of court and tribunal decisions that expanded Maori rights. With racial tensions simmering, the protest seeks to bring tens of thousands together in Wellington next week.

(With inputs from agencies.)