The coalition Government was expecting a hard time when it fronted up to Waitangi Day commemorations in the Bay of Islands on Monday, and so it proved, with plenty of protest from Māori opposed to what they say is a downgrading of Māori language and Māori rights under proposals from the National/NZ First/Act Government.
Yesterday was when the Government’s party leaders were welcomed on to Te Whare Runanga and the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, and they were given some strong messages from Māori leaders and protest groups.
A massive haka greeted Prime Minister Christopher Luxon as he arrived at Waitangi with other leaders of the coalition Government yesterday.
Thousands of people gathered for their arrival and many in the large crowd joined in the challenge with conches and trumpets resounding above the rousing haka.