New Zealand Indigenous MPs Defy Suspension, Vow to Resist 'Colonialist Views'

WELLINGTON, New Zealand (Reuters) — Members of New Zealand’s Te Pati Maori party, suspended from parliament following a haka protest, defiantly declared they 'stood their ground' against what they called 'colonialist views.' Co-leaders Debbie Ngarewa-Packer and Rawiri Waititi addressed the media on June 5th, 2025, following their suspension. Ngarewa-Packer stated, "We knew we were in for a heavy day," highlighting the gravity of the situation. Waititi added, "We must continue to hold on to the taonga of our ancestors," referring to their cultural heritage and traditions. The protest was in response to a bill that sought to redefine the 185-year-old treaty between the British and Māori. The party's actions underscore the ongoing debate surrounding Indigenous rights and treaty interpretations in New Zealand. Their resolute stance signals continued political engagement on this critical issue.