Today in Focus New Zealand: the fight to protect Māori rights
9 snips
Dec 2, 2024 
Eva Corlett, The Guardian's New Zealand correspondent, and Annette Sykes, a prominent Māori lawyer and activist, dive into New Zealand's historic hikoi, where 42,000 rallied for Māori rights. They discuss the government's rollback of these rights and the urgent community response. The conversation highlights significant disparities faced by the Māori, critiques of current policies, and the importance of the Treaty of Waitangi. Together, they underscore the need for unity, cultural pride, and a reassessment of governmental relationships with Māori communities.
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Hikoi for Māori Rights
- Thousands of New Zealanders participated in a hikoi, a traditional Māori march, spanning nine days.
- The march started at the North Island's tip and culminated in the capital, Wellington.
Māori Disparities
- Māori, comprising 20% of New Zealand's population, face significant disparities in various areas.
- These include lower life expectancy, income, and homeownership, coupled with higher unemployment and incarceration rates.
Government Policies Impacting Māori
- The new government's policies affect Māori health, language, social care, and education.
- These include reversing a smoking ban program, disestablishing the Māori Health Authority, and altering child welfare and history curriculums.