Waitangi Treaty

The Treaty of Waitangi, signed in 1840 between Māori leaders and the British Crown, is considered New Zealand's founding document. It was meant to establish a partnership, recognizing Māori ownership of their land and granting the British the right to govern. However, differences in the English and Māori versions have led to ongoing disagreements about its meaning and application. The treaty is now a symbol of New Zealand’s commitment to respecting Māori rights and seeking a fair relationship between Māori and the government. It remains central to legal and cultural discussions in New Zealand today.