Maori MPs Disrupt New Zealand Parliament Vote

New Zealand's parliament was temporarily suspended after members of the Te Pāti Māori performed a haka during a vote on the controversial Treaty Principles Bill, proposed by the ACT Party. This bill seeks to redefine the interpretation of the Treaty of Waitangi, which has historically established the relationship between the British Crown and the Māori people. The haka, led by MP Hana-Rawhiti Maipi-Clarke, was an act of protest against the perceived threat to Māori rights, with widespread public support reflected in ongoing marches (hikoi) towards Wellington. Speaker Gerry Brownlee deemed the performance 'grossly disorderly' and suspended the session, but the bill still passed its first reading amid significant opposition. Critics, including legal experts, warn that the legislation could undermine Indigenous rights, while supporters argue it aims to eliminate racial divisions. The bill will be reviewed by the Justice Committee before any further parliamentary action.