9 June 2017
Green Party congratulates Parihaka on reconciliation
The Green Party is today acknowledging the people of Parihaka as they sign a reconciliation package with the Crown.
A Crown delegation, including Green MPs, will be welcomed onto Parihaka today, where Minister for Treaty Negotiations
Christopher Finlayson will read an apology to the people of Parihaka for past acts of aggression.
“The Green Party sends our aroha and congratulations to all descendants of Parihaka on this historic day,” Green Party
Co-leader Metiria Turei said.
“Today is hugely significant for Aotearoa. It will do down in history as one of our most important days.
“The Crown invasion of Parihaka in 1881 and the non-violent response are some of the most striking examples of
aggression in the history of Aotearoa, and non-violent resistance across the world.
“I acknowledge the extraordinary generosity of Parihaka and Taranaki iwi for accepting this reconciliation package.
“Financial redress is never enough in the Treaty settlement process, and only returns a fraction of what was lost. But
this package will ensure that the Parihaka papakaingā is able to rebuild for their future.
“This will enable the Parihaka community to exercise the self-determination and self-sufficiency that their tūpuna
sacrificed so much to protect. I mihi to the enduring mana and rangatiratanga of the Parihaka people. We stand with them
in solidarity on this day,” Mrs Turei said.