Kiingitanga spokespeople used today’s welcome for political parties at Ratana to give a message to Prime Minister Christopher Luxon.
Kiingitanga chief of staff Ngira Simmonds told the Prime Minister his Government needed to respect the ability of Māori to deliver positive outcomes for both tangata whenua and tauiwi,
He says kotahitanga can be achieved, but only when the treaty partners work in good faith.
Kaumatua Rahui Papa said there were countless examples of mana motuhake benefiting both tangata whenua and tauiwi, particularly in times of crisis.
Whether it’s a pandemic, or floods or earthquakes, Māori open their hearts and their marae to everyone.
Te iwi Māori are often the first line of defence and first line of support. We need to find a way to make this a durable approach, with te Iwi Maaori in the lead and their treaty partner supporting, not hindering them.
Other examples of mana motuhake suggested by attendees at last Saturday’s hui a motu at Turangawaewae Marae included the protection of te reo Māori, a stronger voice for rangatahi, more Māori kaupapa-driven businesses and fulfilling Princess Te Puea’s vision of a Māori hospital.
