New Zealand indigenous race, who migrated here between 900-1100AD. Were amazing warriors and navigators, the 28th Maori Battalion of the World Wars was praised by other countries as one of the best forces in the world. Maori are also credited for the invention of the modern
war paradigm of trench warfare, invented during the
New Zealand wars.
The main discrepency with Maori and non-Maori of NZ is the issue of the Treaty of Waitangi, which was written in two languages, and both hold differing meanings. The Human Rights Commission states that if such discrepencies exist, the indigenous version is to be deemed the official version. Of course the
government ignored this. If you don't know the differences, read the Treaty (there are translations of both versions) and make your own decision. Know also that the single largest demographic on
government benefits is
white pensioners. Not maori "dole bludgers". Note also maori die younger and receive less treatment than non-maori for things
like heart disease. So do not say Maori receive more 'privileges' than pakeha. My Uni fees are the same as everyone else. And for all of you who hate Maori but still do the haka at drunnken parties and wear taonga when you go overseas, you are dishonouring our culture with your two-faced visage.
For those who think we are getting unfair benefits, do some homework and learn the
history. Parihaka, Orakei, there are many examples of travesties of justice by the Crown. The Tohunga Suppression Act, The Maori Land Court, shocking acts of injustice. Learn your history.
Foreigner:
Hey thats a cool necklace! What does it mean?
Pakeha: I
don't know. Its Maori though.
Foreigner: Mean tattoo, what is it?
Pakeha: Um....
Foreigner: Do you do the haka?
Pakeha: Yep! But...I
don't know what that means either...