The treaty principles bill, introduced by the libertarian Act party, passed its first reading on Thursday amid fierce opposition and significant disruptions.

The contentious bill, tabled by the Act party, proposes removing well-established principles derived from the Treaty of Waitangi, a cornerstone document signed in 1840 by more than 500 Māori chiefs and the crown. These principles, developed over half a century, include participation, partnership, protection, and redress, and are crucial in maintaining Māori rights. Over the years, these principles have furthered initiatives like the revitalization of the Māori language and the establishment of a Māori health authority, which aimed to address poor health outcomes for Māori before being dismantled by the coalition government this year.

Opposition to the bill has been palpable, with critics arguing that it undermines the treaty and Māori rights while stoking anti-Māori sentiment. Public backlash has included a significant protest, with thousands joining a nine-day hīkoi that started from the tip of the North Island and is expected to arrive at parliament on Tuesday. During the parliamentary debate, Act's leader David Seymour asserted that the principles afford Māori distinct rights and aimed to clarify their modern-day implications. His remarks were met with loud objections from opposition parties, prompting the speaker to intervene for order.

Labour's Willie Jackson vehemently opposed the bill, condemning Seymour and accusing him of being a dangerous politician. Jackson emphasized the importance of the treaty principles, describing them as clear and foundational elements such as partnership, equity, active protection, and redress. His speech ended in his ejection from the house after calling Seymour a liar and refusing to retract his statement.

Te Pāti Māori co-leader Rawiri Waititi also delivered a passionate rebuke, comparing the Act party's actions to that of the KKK and accusing them of undermining the Treaty of Waitangi. Echoing similar sentiments, Green party co-leader Chlöe Swarbrick urged coalition MPs to resist the bill, questioning whether they were prioritizing power or justice.

Introduction of the bill is part of Act's coalition agreement with National, the primary centre-right party. However, National and New Zealand First, another coalition partner, have indicated they will not support the bill beyond its initial stages, suggesting it is unlikely to pass. The justice committee will review submissions on the bill over the next six months before it returns for a second reading in parliament.