Principles of the Treaty of Waitangi

Under the Treaty of Waitangi Act 1975,  the Waitangi Tribunal has exclusive authority to determine the meaning and effect of the Treaty as it is embodied in the 2 texts (Māori and the English) and to decide issues raised by the difference between them.

The term 'Waitangi Tribunal' is used to refer both to the total membership and to the individual tribunals who inquire into claims by Māori relating to actions or omissions of the Crown, which may breach the principles of the Treaty. It is through the individual Tribunal finding reports that the Tribunal provides its account of the Treaty principles. See reports

Dr Janine Hayward
In an analysis of principles, Dr Janine Hayward discusses the emergence of four reconciling principles, "…of active protection, the tribal right to self-regulation, the right of redress for past breaches, and the duty to consult." The recognition and adherence to these principles ensure the "active protection" of Māori language and culture.

A guide to the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi as interpreted by the Waitangi Tribunal and the Courts, has been produced by Te Puni Kokiri, Ministry of Māori Development:
He Tirohanga o Kawa ki te Tiriti o Waitangi.

Another document which draws together some statements by the courts, the Waitangi Tribunal, and the Government in New Zealand regarding the interpretation and application of the principles of the Treaty was Waitangi, was prepared as an appendix to the Rangahaua Whanui National Overview, and can be downloaded here:
The Principles of the Treaty of Waitangi  (pdf)

To view and print the Principles of the Treaty of Waitangi in pdf format you will need a copy of Adobe Acrobat reader.