December 15, 2014
Protest factored in to Waitangi programme
The organiser of Waitangi Day events at the Treaty Grounds says protest is inevitable.
The end of Mana as a parliamentary party as a result of Hone Harawira losing his Te Tai Tokerau seat has sparked speculation of increased activity on February 6.
New Zealand First list MP Pita Paraone, who chairs the Waitangi National Trust, says it’s hard to say what the catalyst for protest will be, but some action is inevitable and needs to be planned for alongside the sports, prayers and naval displays.
It’s all part of the rich history associated with the Treaty of Waitangi.
"Prior to the signing of the treaty itself, the day before, there was obvious protest and serious debate as to whether or not the treaty should be signed, so what we have at Waitangi every year is probably a reflection of the history surrounding the treaty,"
Mr Paraone says.
The Ministry of Culture and Heritage is also funding more than 60 other events around the country to mark Waitangi Day.
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