Waitangi witnessed a remarkable gathering this morning as Tāme Iti, a notable Māori activist and artist, led a significant march from Te Tii Marae to the Upper Treaty Grounds and Te Whare Rūnanga. This event underscored the ongoing dialogue about the Treaty of Waitangi’s role in New Zealand’s present and future.
Dressed in white, approximately 300 participants carried flags and chanted, “The Treaty is a fraud, honour the Treaty,” while moving through the treaty grounds. This march was designed as performative art, aiming to provoke thought and highlight the Treaty’s complex legacy.
The procession featured ambient sounds from speakers, enhancing the atmosphere as the group paused to allow Iti to place a white shawl at the entrance of Te Whare Rūnanga, symbolising peace. Following this, Ngā Tama Toa members entered the marae, greeted by Labour MP Peeni Henare and Ngāpuhi rangatira Hone Sadler, who welcomed Iti with a speech.
Iti’s contribution to the day included donating a sculpture to Waitangi and Ngāpuhi, signifying ongoing dialogue and community connection.
In conversation with Breakfast, Iti shared his perspective on the march as an opportunity for reflection and engagement. He highlighted the importance of reducing barriers to engagement with Waitangi Day, especially among Māori who may feel distant from cultural and political processes.
“It’s about providing an opportunity for people to engage with Waitangi without the anxiety,” Iti stated. “It’s for our people, who know their identity but might not be actively involved. We need to shift our thinking.”
Iti called on New Zealanders to engage with their history and the Treaty, fostering a movement towards deeper understanding and mutual respect.