Te Ata Tino Toa is launching the Mâori flag by plane, boat and convoy in Auckland this Waitangi Day.

Te Ata Tino Toa spokesperson Tia Taurere says "We have put together the largest Tino Rangatiratanga flag ever made at 7 m by 14 m. We are ataching it to a plane to take to the skies so that the whole of Auckland can check it out. Comrades will be in boats supporting us from the sea, with a convoy supporting us by land heading over the Bridge"

Taurere continues "The Tino Rangatiratanga flag symbolises the long tradition of struggle and resistance by Mâori against colonisation and the Crown theft of Mâori land and resources. It is a symbol used by Mâori who continue to resist the pressures of colonisation and cultural and economic genocide. The concept embraces the spiritual link Mâori have with 'Papatûânuku' (Earthmother) and is a part of the international drive by indigenous peoples for self determination."

Celebrate the Tino Rangatiratanga flag in your area by organising your own local actions. Find creative ways to display the flag (send us photos! maoriflag@gmail.com ).

Think about adopting local flag poles for the tino flag, and other high profile places in your area the flag can fly from. Even a sticker for your car will support the kaupapa.

We know the flag is being flown at: Waitangi grounds; the Convoy, Auckland Harbour Bridge; Wahamanga (Marokopa); Otaki College; Te Kohanga Reo o Puau Te Moananui a Kiwa, Glen Innes; Taiwere Marae, Te Wânanga o Aotearoa, Rotorua; Auckland University; Mana College (the mural near Maori studies); the whare by the highway 5 mins south of Taumarunui me te maha noa ato oi nga waahi; Wellington library (Maori section)

(Convoy info: http://www.indigenousportal.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1855&Itemid=388 )

ENDS

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