"It's A Proud Day To Be Māori!" #hikoi

Te Whānau o Waipareira were part of Hīkoi mō te Tiriti that travelled for nine days from Cape Reinga to the steps of Parliament alongside over 50,000 people today.

The large cohort of kaimahi were regularly switched out with a handful travelling the entire distance of Te Ika-a-Māui in the Proud To Be Māori vans and trucks. The crews handed out refreshments and Waipareira Proud To Be Māori merchandise including flags that flew high amongst the Māori banners.

Te Whānau o Waipareira Director of Frontline Services, Iri Mako will never forget the experience.

"What an absolute privilege it has been travelling with my workmates and supporting this very important kaupapa with thousands and thousands of people. A very emotional hīkoi. We are stronger together, e te iwi. We can celebrate our uniqueness and come together when we should! It was incredible to see, feel, hear and be part of this incredible movement. It was a proud day to be Māori".

The world was watching as the hīkoi grew from the start and it made international headlines with the world now waiting for the outcome of the Treaty Principles Bill.