Hikoi Takutaimoana II - the second foreshore and seabed hikoi Hikoi shows unhappiness
16 October 2004 Co-leader of the Maori party Tariana Turia says Saturday's hikoi in Auckland shows how upset Maori are about the Foreshore and Seabed Bill. About 2000 people took part in the second hikoi on the issue in Auckland, but this time marchers avoided the harbour bridge. Instead they marched down Queen Street and along the waterfront to Okahu bay. Turia was at the demonstration and says she fully supported it. She believes there may be some minor changes to the Foreshore and Seabed bill, but thinks it will still pass. But Maori activist Titiwhai Harawira says the government needs to take some steps back and sit down to have meaningful discussions with people who are concerned about the issue. She says this second hikoi keeps the unity going that started with the first hikoi of up to 25,000 people. Harawira says she is going to keep fighting the government and hopes lots of voters will help get rid of it next year. Co-leader of the Maori Party Pita Sharples led the traditionally dressed warriors in the hikoi and says it is a way to protest and show Maori anger about what the government is trying to do. Sharples says the Crown's theft of the foreshore is one of the reasons why the Maori party started. He says when the Foreshore and Seabed bill is passed, Maori will be angry as the will lose their culture and identity. Reporters said everybody taking part, including Mongrel Mob and Black Power members were peaceful. |