Abstract
The Treaty of Waitangi formalised a relationship between two peoples in 1840 that many Māori and several Pākehā describe as a covenant. I explore this observation in three main stages to gain insights from understanding the Treaty in covenantal terms.
First, I explore the origin and nature of a covenant. The idea of a covenant is original to the Bible and describes a particular type of relationship. Accordingly, I develop a theological definition of a covenant by identifying nine typical characteristics of the various covenant relationships described in the Bible. In defining a covenant, I identify marriage as a contemporary example and contrast this with the very different nature of a contract. I argue that a covenant protects an unconditional relationship between parties who appreciate a shared future. Conversely, a contract enforces conditions that prioritise the parties’ own interests over a personal relationship.
Secondly, I compare the Treaty and its historical context with the characteristics of a covenant to show a consistency that renders it appropriate to explore the Treaty relationship in covenantal terms. Fundamentally, I argue that the Treaty establishes an ongoing relationship best understood not as a contract but as a covenant. In addition, I investigate past and present attitudes to the Treaty and discover that the relational framework of te āo Māori (the Māori world), like that of the Bible, typically enables an innate recognition among Māori of the essential characteristics of covenantal relationality. In contrast, the dominant Pākehā culture often frames the Treaty in impersonal contractual terms that are at odds with the nature of a covenant. Thus, understanding the Treaty in covenantal terms provides Pākehā with a relational understanding more innate to Māori that can inform attitudes and behaviours.
Lastly, I identify several insights that draw on my theological definition of a covenant and the Treaty’s past and present cultural contexts. Insights include a critique of aspects of the current relationship and future possibilities that look beyond grievance toward a mutual relationship protected by both parties who appreciate a shared future. I conclude that living out the ongoing Treaty relationship on covenantal terms is the only way we can honour the relationship formalised in 1840 and ensure that it benefits all people of Aotearoa New Zealand.