What is the Treaty Principles Bill?

The Treaty Principles Bill is a proposed law in New Zealand that aims to "define the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi and require, where relevant, that those principles must be taken into account in the making of law and policy." The bill was introduced by David Seymour, the leader of the ACT Party, in 2024.
The Treaty of Waitangi, signed in 1840, is a founding document of New Zealand. It established a partnership between the British Crown and the Māori people, and guaranteed Māori certain rights and protections. However, the treaty has been the subject of ongoing debate and interpretation, and there is no clear consensus on what its principles are.
The Treaty Principles Bill aims to clarify the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi and provide a framework for their application in law and policy. The bill sets out a number of principles, including:

The partnership principle: The Crown and Māori are partners in the government of New Zealand.
The protection principle: The Crown is responsible for protecting Māori rights and interests.
The participation principle: Māori have the right to participate in decision-making that affects them.
The equality principle: All New Zealanders are equal before the law, regardless of their race or ethnicity.

The Treaty Principles Bill has been the subject of much debate in New Zealand. Supporters of the bill argue that it will provide clarity and certainty about the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi, and will help to improve the relationship between the Crown and Māori. Opponents of the bill argue that it is unnecessary, and could undermine the Treaty of Waitangi.
The Treaty Principles Bill is currently before the New Zealand Parliament. It is not yet clear whether the bill will be passed into law.