Te Tiriti o Waitangi (Treaty of Waitangi)

Te Tiriti o Waitangi, or the Treaty of Waitangi, is a foundational document signed in 1840 between the British Crown and Māori chiefs in New Zealand. It aimed to establish a framework for governance and recognize Māori land rights and sovereignty. The Treaty consists of three main articles: granting the Crown the right to govern, ensuring Māori retain ownership of their lands and possessions, and guaranteeing Māori the same rights as British subjects. Over the years, differing interpretations have led to ongoing discussions and disputes regarding its implications for cultural identity and land rights in New Zealand.