November 15th, 2024, 2:30 pm
In the English version of the Treaty, Māori give the British Crown ‘absolutely and without reservation all the rights and powers of sovereignty’ over their lands, but are guaranteed ‘undisturbed possession’ of their lands, forests, fisheries, and other properties.
In the Māori version of the Treaty, Māori give the Crown ‘kawanatanga katoa’ – complete governorship. And they are guaranteed tino rangatiratanga – the unqualified exercise of chieftainship over their lands, dwelling places, and all other possessions.