Marchers have strong words for Maori MPs

By RENEE KIRIONA

Curses fell on deaf ears last night as foreshore and seabed marchers waited for their Maori MPs to show their faces after voting for the controversial legislation.

One marcher said, "I know where you live, Tamihere," and another, "This is the same thing that started the Maori [New Zealand] wars."

The strong words came as no surprise to Laurayno Ngawhika, who travelled from Rotorua to Wellington with her five children to protest against the proposed law.

"We feel that way because they are not listening despite the distance we have travelled. Once all the anger is out, there will be nothing left but rangimarie [peacefulness] so we should let them say what is on their mind."

Ms Ngawhika did not resort to swearing, but she said she was just as angry as the other protesters after learning that the legislation had passed its first vote, 65-55.

"The Maori male MPs in their speeches clouded the issue with party politics. I feel as though my feet have been taken from underneath me. I feel like crying."

Rihare Kake, vice-president of the Confederation of Tribes of Aotearoa, said Maori would not roll over despite the vote going against them.

Veteran campaigner Angeline Greensill said the next step for the marchers was to write submissions.