New Zealand: Three Māori MPs suspended over viral Haka protest in Parliament

Three Māori members of New Zealand’s Parliament have been suspended after engaging in a traditional haka protest that became widely shared online last November. The event disrupted a parliamentary session and featured powerful chants and intense facial expressions, essential elements of the ceremonial war dance.

Haka Protest Elicits Reactions

The demonstration was initiated by opposition MP Hana-Rawhiti Maipi-Clarke, who questioned whether her party, Te Pāti Māori (The Māori Party), supported a contentious bill. She began the haka on the parliamentary floor, resulting in a seven-day suspension for her actions.

Should Māori lawmakers face consequences for performing the haka?

The suspension of three Māori MPs who took part in a viral haka has led to the largest protests in New Zealand’s history.#Maori #Haka #DW pic.twitter.com/gQjkvCUGUW

— The Indian Express (@IndianExpress) May 25, 2025

The party’s co-leaders, Rawiri Waititi and Debbie Ngarewa-Packer, received 21-day suspensions.

The controversial bill sought to amend the founding treaty of New Zealand. Although the proposal has been rejected, it ignited substantial discussions surrounding indigenous rights.

Global Interest and Viral Impact

Videos of the haka protest, usually associated with sports events or graduations, quickly circulated online, garnering international attention. While the haka holds deep significance in Māori culture, a parliamentary committee later concluded that its performance in the House could be viewed as intimidating to fellow MPs.

This disciplinary action sets a historic precedent in New Zealand’s political landscape, as the previous longest suspension for an MP was only three days.

Maipi-Clarke’s Heartfelt Plea

During the discussion on the sanctions, Maipi-Clarke delivered an emotional speech, stating:

“We will not be silenced, and we will not be forgotten. Is our voice too loud for this House? Is that the reason for our punishment?”

Government Under Fire

While New Zealand has received international acclaim for its dedication to indigenous rights, the relationship between the Māori community and the current conservative government has deteriorated in recent years.

Foreign Minister Winston Peters drew criticism during the session for labeling Te Pāti Māori as “a group of extremists,” asserting that “the country is tired of their actions.”