News|Indigenous RightsNew Zealand deputy PM heckled day after saying colonisation good for MaoriPM calls for civil debate as government faces backlash over efforts to roll back policies to support Maori community.

New Zealand's Deputy Prime Minister David Seymour has responded to criticism regarding his statements on the impact of colonization on the Indigenous Maori population. During a speech marking Waitangi Day on Thursday, Seymour, who leads the ACT Party, described colonization as having provided certain benefits to Indigenous communities.

Waitangi Day is an annual political event where Indigenous tribes address their concerns. Seymour's remarks have sparked debate about the effects of colonization, which historically resulted in the dispossession of Maori land. Today, Maori communities face challenges such as lower life expectancy, higher poverty rates, and increased incarceration compared to non-Indigenous populations.

Controversial legislation introduced last year aimed at redefining the treaty's principles and addressing inequalities did not pass, as it lacked sufficient support from the governing parties. Seymour's government has been criticized for attempting to reduce special rights afforded to the Maori population.

Following recent events, New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon emphasized the importance of national unity and addressing challenges faced by the Maori community. He advocated for civil discourse regarding the legacy of British colonization, stating, “We work through our differences.”

The debate over the consequences of colonialism continues to be a significant topic in former colonies, including New Zealand and Australia.

Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.