Thousands of Māori people gathered over the weekend in protests opposing controversial changes planned by the New Zealand government.
Since taking office in October, the governing coalition has announced its intention to undo several longstanding government policies.
It includes the mandated official use of te reo Māori, policies affecting living conditions and self-determination, and, perhap most controversially, a review of
King Tuheitia Paki said Māori voices matter, particularly in finding solutions to entrenched issues.
"But turning up today, we've sent a strong message that has been heard around the world," he said.
"People are watching us."
'Just be Māori'
In December, Kiingitanga, the Māori king movement, called for a meeting of leaders and representatives at Marae, the traditional meeting grounds, in Ngaruawahia south of Auckland.
During the gathering, which saw some 10,000 participate, attendees took part in breakout sessions and discussed several topics including the need for the Māori version of the Treaty of Waitangi.
"The best protest we can do right now is be Māori - be who we are, live our values, speak our reo [language], care for our mokopuna [younger generation], our awa [rivers], our maunga [mountains]," Tuheitia said.
"Just be Māori - Māori all day, every day.
We are here, we are strong.
Some politicians were in attendance, however, the prime minister, conservative leader Chris Luxon, didn't participate.
He met earlier in the week with Tuheitia and was supportive of the gathering.
The government's plans have been heavily criticised as some are concerned it'll undo years of advocacy and progression for Māori rights.
However, the government remains firm it'll aim to give equal rights to all New Zealanders and is responsive to voter wants.
