Maipi-Clarke Backs Tribunal Scrutiny Of Education Reform – Te Pati Māori

MP for Hauraki-Waikato and Te Pāti Māori Education Spokesperson, Hana-Rawhiti Maipi-Clarke, stands in support of the urgent Waitangi Tribunal hearings taking place this week into Wai 3553.

The claim, brought forward by Northland iwi and hapū Ngāti Hine and Te Kapotai alongside NZEI Te Riu Roa and education advocates, raises serious concerns that education reforms will impact how schools uphold Te Tiriti o Waitangi, and weaken support for Māori learners, language, and culture.

“These hearings are a critical opportunity to ensure that Māori voices are heard, and the Crown is held a to its Te Tiriti o Waitangi obligations” says Maipi-Clarke.

“Education is not just about academic outcomes- it is about identity, belonging, and ensuring our tamariki can succeed as Māori. Any changes that risk undermining this must be thoroughly assessed.”

Maipi-Clarke emphasised that the Tribunal plays a vital role in providing independent scrutiny of Government decisions, particularly where there are concerns about impacts on Māori rights and wellbeing.

“These hearings go to the heart of who our education system serves, and whether it reflects true partnership under Te Tiriti.”

She says the outcome of this inquiry will be significant for Māori learners, whānau, and future generations, and is calling for a process that is fair, transparent, process.

“The Government should halt the reforms until the Tribunal completes its inquiry so that the full impact is understood.

“I mihi to and stand in support of our kura, principals, and leaders such as Ripeka Lessels, Annette Sykes, Te Ringahuia Hata, Watson Ohia, and Te Whakakitenga o Waikato, who continue to advocate for an education system that works for all our Tamariki” concluded Maipi-Clarke.