Education Minister’s bombshell takes us back to the future

“This requirement reflects our unique dual cultural heritage and the responsibilities that our schools have to ensuring our tamariki and rangatahi are grounded and thrive in that heritage. All New Zealanders benefit from giving effect to Te Tiriti.

“This objective distinguishes the responsibilities of schools in Aotearoa New Zealand from those in other countries. It emphasises the importance of our local history and practices and helps ensure ākonga are supported to be bilingual and at home in Te Ao Māori.

“The objective for boards to give effect to Te Tiriti o Waitangi makes it clear, and in no uncertain terms, that schools must commit to achieving equitable outcomes for ākonga Māori. Our concern is that doing away with this objective it sends the message that this is less important than other areas that a board is responsible for.”

Te Aomihia Taua-Glassie said one of the most alarming aspects of the Minister’s decision was the sudden nature of it. “There has been no consultation with anyone on this - seemingly out of the blue she’s had a rush of blood to the head and dropped this on us – it’s very concerning.”

Te Aomihia Taua-Glassie said the decision was another step towards unravelling the fabric of Aotearoa New Zealand society.

“So much work has been done over the last 50 years to achieve just and equitable outcomes for Māori, particularly in education with the blossoming of our Kohanga Reo generation.”

She said while it was clearly very disappointing to see the Government make this decision today, it kindles a flame within all Māori and non-Māori who are committed to moving forward together in Aotearoa New Zealand. In the words of Tā Hemi Henāre : Kua tawhiti kē tō haerenga mai Kia kore e haere tonu. He nui rawa ō mahi Kia kore i mahi tonu. You have come to far not to go further. You have done too much not to do more. 

“Our tamariki and rangatahi deserve a better future and we will continue to fight for them.”