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International Day of the World's Indigenous People 2006

Wednesday, 9 August, is the International Day of the World's Indigenous People - to mark the Day here in Aotearoa New Zealand, the Human Rights Commission is holding public forums on indigenous peoples' rights in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch (see details below). The International Day of the World's Indigenous People was proclaimed by the UN General Assembly on 23 December 1994, and is celebrated around the world each year on 9 August. Information about the Day is available on the UN Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues site.


  • Auckland

    • Wednesday, 9 August - Auckland City Council and the Human Rights Commission invite you to a Forum on the International Day of the World's Indigenous People: Indigenous Rights - What are They? How do 'indigenous rights' sit alongside 'human rights'? How is this reflected in the Treaty of Waitangi? How well are indigenous rights recognised in Aotearoa New Zealand or Auckland for that matter? What is happening on the world stage? What responsibilities are attached to indigenous rights? And who says? Our speakers will cover these issues and provide a forum for further dialogue that will help to develop a better understanding of indigenous rights and their relation to domestic and international human rights standards. Facilitated by Bob Newson (Kaiwhakarite), with speakers including Rosslyn Noonan, Chief Human Rights Commissioner; Dr Manuka Henare, University of Auckland, Ngaati Te Ata, and a Council spokesperson. From 4pm to 7pm, Auckland Town Hall Reception Lounge, Level 2, Upper Queen Street. Light refreshments provided; for catering purposes, please RSVP (if you are planning on attending) by 10am, Tuesday, 8 August to Narlene, email or tel (04) 471 6756.

  • Wellington

    • Wednesday, 9 August - The Human Rights Commission invites you to a Symposium on International Day of the World's Indigenous People: Indigenous Rights – What Are They? How do 'indigenous rights' sit alongside 'human rights'? How is this reflected in the Treaty of Waitangi? How well are indigenous rights recognised in Aotearoa New Zealand or Wellington for that matter? What is happening on the world stage? What responsibilities are attached to indigenous rights? And who says? Our speakers will cover these issues and provide a forum for further dialogue that will help to develop a better understanding of indigenous rights and their relation to domestic and international human rights standards. Chaired by Bill Hamilton (Human Rights Commission), with keynote speakers including Claire Charters, Lawyer; Paul McHugh, Victoria University; Edwina Hughes, Peace Movement Aotearoa; and Joris de Bres, Race Relations Commissioner. From 10am to 12.30pm, Conference Room, Level 8, Vogel Building, 8 Aitken St, Thorndon. Lunch provided; due to limited space/seating, and for catering purposes, please RSVP (if you are planning on attending) by 10am, Tuesday, 8 August to Narlene, email or tel (04) 471 6756.

  • Christchurch

    • Wednesday, 9 August - The Human Rights Commission invites you to a Forum on International Day of the World's Indigenous People: Indigenous Rights - What Are They? How do 'indigenous rights' sit alongside 'human rights'? How is this reflected in the Treaty of Waitangi? How well are indigenous rights recognised in Aotearoa New Zealand or Christchurch for that matter? What is happening on the world stage? What responsibilities are attached to indigenous rights? And who says? Our speakers will cover these issues and provide a forum for further dialogue that will help to develop a better understanding of indigenous rights and their relation to domestic and international human rights standards. Keynote speakers include Moana Jackson (Ngati Kahungunu), Lawyer; Sacha McMeeking (Kai Tahu), Lecturer, Canterbury University; and Karolin Potter, Human Rights Commission Advisor, who will chair the Forum. From 12.15pm to 2.15pm, College of Education Seminar Room (Avon 205), Dovedale Ave, Ilam. Lunch provided; for catering purposes, please RSVP (if you are planning on attending) by 10am, Tuesday, 8 August to Marina, email or tel (03) 379 2015.

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