Matangi Rau: The Enduring Potential of Te Tiriti o Waitangi

Long before te Tiriti o Waitangi was signed or Western law was introduced to New Zealand, a Māori legal system already existed. It still does, but the New Zealand government has never properly recognised either te Tiriti or tikanga, the first law of Aotearoa. This is both unjust and unfortunate, argues Carwyn Jones. Unjust because the partnership explicitly established in te Tiriti has been largely ignored; unfortunate because such a partnership would benefit not just Māori but all New Zealanders.

In this collection of articles, published in newspapers, online and in legal journals over the last 20 years, the author ranges widely and probes deeply to demonstrate how a system of true co-governance would improve all aspects of life in New Zealand – including justice, politics, education and the environment. His views are sometimes provocative but always stimulating, his arguments are informed by a profound knowledge of Western law and mātauranga Māori, and his outlook for constitutional change is refreshingly optimistic. Matangi Rau is essential reading for the many New Zealanders who seek balance and understanding in a debate that often lacks both.