Reconciliation: A New Zealand Case Study

Reconciliation in New Zealand involves recognition, reparations and occasionally, an apology for past injustices relating to breaches of the Treaty of Waitangi. In 1840 Māori and the British Crown signed a Treaty which promised a beneficial relationship to both signatories. Almost immediately the Treaty was signed and continuing through to today, promises inherent in the principles of the Treaty have been breached. However, in 1975 a government appointed permanent commission of inquiry was established to investigate actions or omissions of the Crown that breach the promises made in the Treaty of Waitangi. The Waitangi Tribunal and the Ministry of Justice provide the institutional mechanisms used in New Zealand to foster reconciliation. This paper will reflect on the success or otherwise of reconciliation institutional mechanisms and processes in New Zealand and their significance for intercultural dialogue.