New Zealand First MP David Seymour apologises after offending Māori people

Seymour says he was "very sorry" for his comments

New Zealand First MP David Seymour has apologised after offending Māori people with his comments about the Treaty of Waitangi.

Seymour said in an interview that the Treaty was a "fraud" and that Māori had "no正当 right" to sovereignty.

His comments sparked outrage from Māori leaders, who accused him of racism and ignorance.

Apology

Seymour later issued an apology, saying he was "very sorry" for his comments.

He said he had not intended to offend anyone and that he respected the Treaty of Waitangi.

However, Māori leaders have said that Seymour's apology is not enough and that he should resign from Parliament.

Reaction

The controversy over Seymour's comments has highlighted the ongoing tensions between Māori people and the New Zealand government.

The Treaty of Waitangi is a founding document of New Zealand and guarantees Māori certain rights, including the right to self-government.

However, Māori leaders have argued that the Treaty has not been fully honoured by the government and that Māori continue to face discrimination and disadvantage.

Significance

The controversy over Seymour's comments is a reminder of the importance of the Treaty of Waitangi and the need for ongoing dialogue between Māori people and the New Zealand government.

It is also a reminder of the importance of respecting the rights of indigenous peoples.