Deputy PM Heckled at Waitangi Day Service as Tensions Rise

The Waitangi Day service in Northland saw political tensions escalate as Deputy Prime Minister David Seymour faced significant heckling during his address. This public holiday commemorates the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi on February 6, 1840, and is traditionally marked by various political leaders delivering prayers or karakia. However, Seymour’s remarks at the dawn service at Te Whare Rūnanga were met with loud boos and interruptions from the crowd.

As Seymour began his address, he emphasized that he was delivering his karakia in his own style. His speech quickly became contentious, with attendees shouting and heckling, including one individual who exclaimed, “That’s not a karakia.” In an effort to restore order, Bishop Te Kito Pikaahu intervened, urging the crowd to settle down. Despite his attempts to continue, the interruptions persisted, reflecting a divided atmosphere.

Following the service, Seymour addressed the media, suggesting that many New Zealanders are growing weary of such disruptions. He claimed that a “silent majority” supports him, stating, “There are a minority of people who each year ruin Waitangi by being very loud.” He noted that this vocal opposition tends to overshadow the more diverse views present at the event. The Deputy Prime Minister pointed to the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi, asserting that he speaks for those who align with its values.

Seymour’s controversial Treaty Principles Bill, which aimed to legally define the principles of the Treaty, failed to pass its second reading in Parliament last year. He reiterated his belief that this bill would eventually become law, stating, “I always just point to the overwhelming majority of New Zealanders [who] support the principles in the Bill.” When asked about campaigning on this issue in the upcoming election, he affirmed his commitment to advocating for equal rights among New Zealanders.

On the previous day, formal political ceremonies took place, including a pōwhiri welcoming politicians to the Treaty Grounds. Prime Minister Christopher Luxon confirmed that his party, National, would not support a revival of the Treaty Principles Bill. Notably, Luxon chose to attend a community event in Auckland instead of the Waitangi service.

In contrast, Labour Party leader Chris Hipkins offered a reflective message during his address. He spoke of the dawn as a symbol of new beginnings and urged attendees to embrace differences as opportunities for deeper understanding. Hipkins stated, “As the sun rises higher, may it illuminate a path forward, one shaped by a collective determination to build a future worthy of those who will stand here after us.”

The crowd’s mood shifted positively during the speech by Marama Davidson, co-leader of the Green Party. She appealed to the Māori gods and spoke passionately about environmental issues and te ao Māori, receiving a warm round of applause, the only such response for a politician during the service.

This year’s Waitangi Day has underscored the ongoing divisions within New Zealand society regarding the Treaty of Waitangi and its implications. As political leaders gather to reflect and advocate for their views, the complexities of these discussions continue to resonate deeply across the nation.