Will's Word: 'Powerful moment in Aotearoa’s political history'

OPINION. Yesterday’s events in Parliament – did you catch it?

As the House was debating the contentious Treaty Principles Bill, Te Pāti Māori MP Hana-Rawhiti Maipi-Clarke tore up a copy of the bill that seeks to change the way the Treaty is interpreted, and led a haka to disrupt the vote which was then backed up by other Māori MPs in opposition.

It will undoubtedly go down as one of the most powerful moments in Aotearoa’s political history.

It wasn’t just an act of defiance—it was a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggle to uphold the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi and to ensure that Māori voices are heard, respected, and honoured within the halls of power.

The haka she led in Parliament was a symbolic cry for justice, a challenge to the very core of this legislation that many believe undermines the Treaty’s principles and Māori sovereignty.

Hana’s sentiment is shared by many - in fact thousands of people have set off on a nine-day hikoi - a march in protest over the legislation.

They are expected to arrive in the capital, Wellington, on Tuesday for a big rally.

So if Seymour was put off by yesterday’s events in Parliament yesterday – just wait until the hikoi descends on Parliament next week.

Watch the full video of Will's Word below