Te Pāti Māori Dodges Privileges Committee Over Parliamentary Haka

Atereano Mateariki Rawiri Waititi | Te Pāti Māori Faces Privileges Committee Over Parliamentary Haka

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The stand-off between Te Pāti Māori and Parliament’s Privileges Committee continues after not attending the parliamentary complaints process.

Co-leaders Rawiri Waititi, Debbie Ngarewa-Packer, and MP Hana-Rāwhiti Maipi-Clarke have given written evidence about their haka during last year’s Treaty Principles Bill first reading.

Waititi says he has no confidence the committee will consider the cultural importance of haka.

“You know, in terms of cultural identity and cultural competency, you know, we should be ensuring that there are no laws made that hinder the progress of this country, but also doesn’t create any harm,” says Waititi.

Te Pati Māori President, John Tamihere, confirmed to Waatea the party will hold its’ own hui in Matangirea – the original Māori Affairs select committee room at Parliament.

The role of haka and tikanga in Parliament is being looked at by a separate committee

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