Toitu Te Tiriti: Engaging Worksheet for 14-Year-Olds Studying New Zealand History

Instructions

Read the following statements about the Treaty of Waitangi, and answer the questions that follow.

What is the Treaty of Waitangi?

The Treaty of Waitangi is a significant document in New Zealand's history, signed in 1840 between the British Crown and various Māori chiefs. Its purpose was to establish a framework for the relationship between Māori and British settlers.

Key Articles of the Treaty

The Treaty consists of three main articles. Briefly describe the essence of each article in the space provided below:

Article 1:

Article 2:

Article 3:

Questions

1. Why is the Treaty of Waitangi important to New Zealand's identity?

2. What are some of the challenges related to the Treaty that New Zealand faces today?

3. How does the Treaty influence the rights of Māori in New Zealand?

4. In your opinion, how can New Zealanders work together to ensure the principles of the Treaty are upheld?

Reflection

After learning about the Treaty of Waitangi, write a brief paragraph about what you found most interesting and why.