Insults and a haka in New Zealand parliament as MPs debate Māori rights bill

Māori Party MP accuses National Party MP of ‘racist dog whistling’

The New Zealand parliament has been embroiled in a heated debate over a Māori rights bill, with insults and a haka erupting during the proceedings.

The bill, which would give Māori a greater say in the management of their ancestral lands and resources, has been met with opposition from some National Party MPs.

During the debate, Māori Party MP Debbie Ngarewa-Packer accused National Party MP Todd Muller of “racist dog whistling” in his criticism of the bill.

Muller denies racism, says he is ‘passionate’ about New Zealand

Muller has denied being racist, saying he is “passionate” about New Zealand and wants to ensure that all New Zealanders are treated equally.

The debate has also been marked by a haka, a traditional Māori war dance, performed by Māori MPs in the parliament chamber.

The haka was seen as a challenge to the National Party MPs who have opposed the bill.

Māori rights a complex and controversial issue in New Zealand

The issue of Māori rights is a complex and controversial one in New Zealand.

Māori, the indigenous people of New Zealand, have long faced discrimination and disadvantage.

The Māori rights bill is seen by some as a way of addressing these historical injustices.

Bill would give Māori greater say in management of ancestral lands and resources

The bill would give Māori a greater say in the management of their ancestral lands and resources.

This includes the right to negotiate with the government over the use of their land and resources, and to participate in decision-making about these matters.

The bill has been welcomed by Māori leaders, who say it is a step towards reconciliation and addressing the historical injustices that Māori have faced.

National Party opposes bill, says it will create a ‘two-tier’ system of justice

The National Party has opposed the bill, saying it will create a “two-tier” system of justice and give Māori special privileges.

The party says the bill is unnecessary because Māori already have a number of rights and protections under existing law.

The debate over the Māori rights bill is likely to continue for some time, as it is a complex and controversial issue with no easy solutions.