Becoming Tangata Tiriti

In Becoming Tangata Tiriti, Avril Bell brings forth an insightful exploration of the challenging yet rewarding journey of engaging with te ao Māori and embracing the principles of te Tiriti o Waitangi. This compelling work gathers the voices of twelve non-Māori individuals—dedicated professionals, activists, and everyday citizens—who have made sincere efforts to integrate te Tiriti into their daily lives and work. Through a collection of real-life stories depicting missteps, hard-earned victories, and the nuanced dynamics of cross-cultural relationships, this book serves as a powerful testament to the learning process inherent in becoming Tangata Tiriti.

With meticulous analysis, Bell delves into the complexities faced by contemporary partners of te Tiriti o Waitangi. She poses thought-provoking questions: Who are we as Tangata Tiriti? How do we identify relative to Māori? What are our responsibilities under te Tiriti? How should we navigate inevitable mistakes along this journey? Becoming Tangata Tiriti confronts these questions head-on, offering readers valuable insights and practical advice.

The book features contributions from notable figures such as Meng Foon and Andrew Judd, among others, who share their personal experiences and reflections on fostering a Tiriti-based society. As these voices recount their efforts and learnings, readers gain a deeper understanding of the significance of te Tiriti and the importance of building respectful and equitable relationships between Māori and non-Māori peoples.

Whether you are just beginning your journey towards understanding and honouring te Tiriti or seeking a refresher, Becoming Tangata Tiriti provides an essential guide. Its accessible and engaging narrative makes it a valuable resource for anyone committed to promoting social justice and cross-cultural understanding in Aotearoa New Zealand.