Sir Apirana Ngata’s Speech at the Centennial of the Treaty of Waitangi, 1940

Sir Apirana Ngata (Ngati Porou) delivered a strong message to Pakeha New Zealand 75 years ago this Friday, when he spoke at the 1940 Treaty Centennial celebrations at Waitangi. The original recording of his speech, outlining Maori grievances and calling for greater Pakeha understanding, is held in the radio collection of Nga Taonga Sound & Vision.
The 1940 centenary marked 100 years since the signing of the Treaty and despite taking place in the midst of World War II, it was celebrated by events around the country, including the Centennial Exhibition in Wellington.
Sir Apirana Ngata speech 5.40 min recorded mark;
‘What is there in the treaty that the Maori can, celebrate whole heartedly with you. Let me say one thing, throughout the treaty, Maori handed over the mana and sovereignty of New Zealand to Queen Victoria and her descendants forever. That is the outstanding fact today, but if it not for the seal of sovereignty handed over to her Majesty and her descendants, I doubt whether there would be a free Maori race in New Zealand today.’
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