Mass Protest Against NZ Treaty Principles Bill

Tens of thousands of protesters have marched on New Zealand's parliament in Wellington, opposing the Treaty Principles Bill which aims to reinterpret the Treaty of Waitangi, New Zealand's founding document signed in 1840 by the British Crown and Maori chiefs. The bill, introduced by the libertarian ACT New Zealand party, has sparked outrage as it is seen as an attempt to dilute Maori rights, despite having little chance of passing. Demonstrators, including Maori and non-Maori, donned traditional attire, carried flags, and performed haka chants to express their solidarity. Notable figures like former All Blacks player Sonny Bill Williams have voiced their support for the protests. Critics argue that the bill threatens to reverse decades of progress on Maori rights and racial equality. The protests have been described as one of the largest in New Zealand's history, highlighting the deep-seated significance of Maori culture and rights in the nation.