It seems like Finance Minister Nicola Willis discussed various topics at Waitangi, including the push for a referendum on the Treaty of Waitangi by ACT. However, she emphasized that the Treaty was not the only issue being debated and highlighted the importance of recognizing the Treaty as the nation’s founding document. She mentioned having conversations with Māori and acknowledged the special significance and reflective atmosphere of Waitangi.
Willis also touched on the failures of successive governments in delivering optimal results in areas such as health and education and emphasized the importance of tino rangatiratanga (self-determination) outlined in Article Two of the Treaty. She expressed National’s philosophy of devolving services to the community level, particularly emphasizing iwi involvement in decision-making.
Regarding Prime Minister Christopher Luxon’s speeches, Willis commented that consistency in his views on reflecting on the national day was not surprising.
