Maori Protest Erupts in New Zealand Parliament: Leaders Expelled After Haka

New Zealand Parliament: Maori Party Leaders Expelled After Haka Protest WELLINGTON, New Zealand – Three leaders of the Maori Party were ejected from the New Zealand Parliament on June 6th, 2025, after performing a haka during a debate on a bill reinterpreting the Treaty of Waitangi. The treaty, signed in 1840, is a foundational document in New Zealand's history, setting the terms of British sovereignty and Maori rights. The proposed changes to the treaty have ignited intense debate, with Maori groups asserting their rights and concerns. The video shows the three Maori Party leaders, including Debbie Ngarewa-Packer, passionately performing the haka in the Parliament chamber. Their actions were seen as a protest against the bill, which they believe undermines Maori sovereignty. Following the haka, the Speaker of the House ordered their removal from the chamber. "We knew we were in for a tough day, and we've heard the korero," said Debbie Ngarewa-Packer in a post-event interview. "Now we're going to go home and show that we stood our ground." Rawiri Waititi, another Maori Party leader, added, "We must continue to hold on to the taonga of our ancestors, whether it be haka, whether it be moko, whether it be our reo." His comments underscore the deep cultural significance of the protest and the Maori Party's commitment to preserving their heritage. The incident has sparked widespread discussion about the Treaty of Waitangi and the role of indigenous rights in New Zealand politics. The Maori Party's actions serve as a powerful symbol of their determination to protect their cultural heritage and political voice.