New Zealand MP seeks cultural gains after viral haka protest
Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 4 Nov, 22:21 · Archive
Hana-Rawhiti Maipi-Clarke, New Zealand's youngest MP, performed a parliamentary haka after ripping up a copy of a controversial law that would redefine the Treaty of Waitangi's legal status. The traditional Maori war dance drew participation from other MPs and garnered an estimated one billion online views, making it the defining moment of New Zealand's last parliamentary term.
Ms Maipi-Clarke, elected in 2023 at 21 years old, was suspended for three weeks following the protest, which was officially described as an 'intimidatory act'. She believes the harsh punishment—among the longest suspensions in the parliament's history—was a response to the haka's viral success rather than the act itself. 'We have regularly done different haka and waiata,' she said, noting that less-noticed Maori celebrations at other parliamentary moments went unpenalised.
If her Maori Party becomes part of a left-wing government at the 7 November election, Ms Maipi-Clarke intends to change parliamentary standing orders to embrace rather than sanction such cultural acts. 'We'll take it to the standing orders committee where you can alter the rule books,' she told AAP. She said she had been unprepared for the level of interest her protest generated.
How it is being reported
- New Zealand's viral haka MP eyes Maori cultural gainsNew Zealand's youngest-ever MP, Hana-Rawhiti Maipi-Clarke, is eying a junior ministry should her Maori Party be part of the next government.The West Australian · 4 Nov, 22:03
- New Zealand's viral haka MP eyes Maori cultural gainsNew Zealand's youngest-ever MP, Hana-Rawhiti Maipi-Clarke, is eying a junior ministry should her Maori Party be part of the next government.Perth Now · 4 Nov, 22:03
In this story: Hana-Rawhiti Maipi-Clarke · Maori Party · New Zealand · Treaty of Waitangi · Chris Luxon
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