Waitangi Day, observed on February 6th, marks the signing of Te Tiriti o Waitangi (the Treaty of Waitangi) in 1840. It is a significant day for Aotearoa New Zealand, representing both unity and controversy. To truly grasp its impact, exploring Māori perspectives is essential. This list of ten must-read books will deepen your understanding of the Treaty and its ongoing significance.
1. "Te Tiriti o Waitangi / The Treaty of Waitangi" by Claudia Orange
One of the most authoritative texts on the Treaty, this book provides a clear historical account of its signing and the subsequent struggles for justice.
Why Read It?
Offers in-depth analysis of the Treaty’s meaning.
Explains its implications for modern New Zealand.
2. "The Treaty of Waitangi Companion" by Vincent O’Malley, Bruce Stirling & Wally Penetito
This book compiles firsthand accounts, including speeches and letters, that provide unique insights into the Treaty’s impact.
Why Read It?
Features historical documents that showcase Māori perspectives.
Helps readers understand differing interpretations of the Treaty.
3. "Always Speaking: The Treaty of Waitangi and Public Policy" by Veronica Tawhai & Katarina Gray-Sharp
A must-read for those interested in how the Treaty influences New Zealand’s laws and policies today.
Why Read It?
Explains the Treaty’s evolving role in governance.
Provides contemporary examples of Treaty-based policies.
4. "Rangatiratanga: Māori Perspectives on Democracy" by Maria Bargh
This book explores the relationship between Māori self-determination and democracy.
Why Read It?
Examines the Treaty’s role in shaping New Zealand’s political landscape.
Offers insights into Māori governance structures.
5. "Decolonizing Methodologies: Research and Indigenous Peoples" by Linda Tuhiwai Smith
A powerful book that challenges traditional academic research and highlights Indigenous knowledge systems.
Why Read It?
Provides a Māori perspective on historical and contemporary issues.
Essential for anyone researching Māori history and the Treaty.
6. "Ngāpuhi Speaks" by Ngāpuhi Nui Tonu
Based on the findings of the Ngāpuhi hearings at the Waitangi Tribunal, this book presents a Māori-led perspective on the Treaty.
Why Read It?
Highlights the Māori view of Treaty agreements.
Based on direct testimony from Māori communities.
7. "Weeping Waters: The Treaty of Waitangi and Constitutional Change" by Malcolm Mulholland & Veronica Tawhai
This book examines how constitutional reform could incorporate the Treaty’s principles more effectively.
Why Read It?
Explores possible futures for Treaty recognition.
Offers legal and political perspectives on Māori rights.
8. "Tangata Whenua: An Illustrated History" by Atholl Anderson, Judith Binney & Aroha Harris
A beautifully illustrated history of Māori from their origins to the present day.
Why Read It?
Provides a broad historical context for the Treaty.
Includes Māori perspectives on major historical events.
9. "A Question of Justice: New Zealand’s Treaty Claims Settlement Process" by Sir Edward Taihakurei Durie
This book discusses the Waitangi Tribunal and Treaty settlements.
Why Read It?
Essential for understanding contemporary Treaty negotiations.
Explains the Tribunal’s role in addressing past injustices.
10. "The Penguin History of New Zealand" by Michael King
Although not solely about the Treaty, this book provides important historical context.
Why Read It?
Offers a well-rounded overview of New Zealand’s history.
Helps readers understand the wider impact of the Treaty.
Conclusion
Understanding Te Tiriti o Waitangi requires more than a surface-level reading of its articles. These ten books offer diverse perspectives, historical depth, and contemporary relevance. Whether you are new to the topic or seeking deeper knowledge, this reading list is an essential guide to Māori perspectives on Waitangi Day and the Treaty’s role in shaping modern New Zealand.
Further Reading
Waitangi Tribunal Reports (for official records and rulings)
Māori Television documentaries (for visual storytelling on Treaty-related issues)
Stay informed, keep reading, and engage with the ongoing conversation about Te Tiriti o Waitangi!
