Drama in New Zealand Parliament, Māori lawmakers suspended over haka protest

Three Māori lawmakers from New Zealand's Te Pāti Māori party have been suspended from Parliament after performing a protest haka during a debate on a controversial bill. The parliamentary committee deemed their actions as contempt of Parliament.

The incident occurred in November 2024 during the first reading of the Treaty Principles Bill, which would redefine the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi, New Zealand's founding document. This bill reinterprets the founding document signed between Maori chiefs and British representatives in 1840 to protect and secure the rights of the Maori population.

Many critics argue this new bill attempts to tamper with the special rights granted to the country's 900,000-strong Maori population.


Hana-Rawhiti Maipi-Clarke, who became New Zealand’s youngest MP at 22, initiated the haka after being questioned about her party's stance on the bill. She was joined by party co-leaders Rawiri Waititi and Debbie Ngarewa-Packer, who chanted the "Ka Mate" haka while approaching opposition MPs.

The Privileges Committee recommended suspensions for the MPs: 21 days for Waititi and Ngarewa-Packer, and 7 days for Maipi-Clarke. During their suspension, they will not receive their parliamentary salaries.

The lawmakers refused to appear before the committee, citing systemic disrespect toward Māori cultural traditions. They described the disciplinary process as a "kangaroo court" and held their own alternative hearing.

The Treaty Principles Bill, introduced by ACT Party leader David Seymour, sought to reinterpret the Treaty of Waitangi. The bill faced significant opposition, including nationwide protests and a march of approximately 42,000 people to Parliament. Ultimately, the bill was defeated.

The Maori Party defines it as one of the harshest punishments ever imposed on New Zealand MPs. Critics argue that the suspensions target the manner of the haka rather than its cultural significance.

The New Zealand Parliament is set to vote on the suspension next week and is also expected to pass the bill with the support of the ruling conservative coalition.