Honoring the Treaty of Waitangi: Unity, Partnership, and Progress for NZ

The speech acknowledges the challenges faced by New Zealanders, including recent natural disasters, while praising the resilience and unity shown through community support and the role of marae as vital hubs. It emphasizes the enduring significance of the Treaty of Waitangi’s three articles: governance (Article One), Māori chieftainship and partnership (Article Two), and equal citizenship and opportunity for all (Article Three), highlighting ongoing government efforts to honor these promises through social investment and reforms. Ultimately, the address calls for continued respectful debate and collaboration to empower Māori and maintain national unity as New Zealand approaches the Treaty’s bicentenary.