A call for action: Supporting Māori rights in Aotearoa.

By Te Awatea Ward, Te Kunenga ki Pūrehuroa | Massey University

In Aotearoa New Zealand, we often speak of progress, equality, and inclusivity. Yet Māori continue to face systemic challenges that are deeply rooted in our colonial past and continue to shape present-day realities.

Since the signing of Te Tiriti o Waitangi in 1840, the Crown has repeatedly failed to honour its obligations to Māori. Land confiscation, the suppression of te reo Māori, and the erosion of mana have left deep and enduring scars. These colonial legacies continue to manifest in persistent inequities across health, education, and political representation. Māori communities still experience the consequences of these injustices – including within our tertiary education institutions.

Although the Treaty Principles Bill was ultimately resoundingly defeated, the sentiment behind it has not disappeared. The ideology underpinning the bill continues to influence policy and funding decisions, including those that impact the tertiary education sector.

More than $6 million of public money was spent on this bill — a bill designed to undermine the foundational place of Te Tiriti o Waitangi in Aotearoa. That funding could have been directed toward addressing inequities in health, education, or housing. Instead, it was used to advance a political agenda that diminishes Māori rights — particularly tino rangatiratanga – and disregards the spirit of partnership at the heart of Te Tiriti.

As a sector committed to knowledge, critical inquiry, and social good, we must remain actively engaged. It is not enough to merely acknowledge Te Tiriti; we must embed its principles meaningfully into the way we teach, research, govern, and lead. Holding the government to account for inequitable policies and practices is essential.

Supporting Māori-led research, education, and leadership is vital to building a more inclusive and just tertiary environment. Upholding Te Tiriti requires courage, sustained effort, and a genuine commitment to equity and partnership.

Let us work together to ensure that Māori rights are not only respected in principle, but realised through thoughtful, collective action that builds a fairer future for all.