Tuhoe

TUHOE
Oh for a kingdom and a sovereign state,
Those with vision know how to wait,
Way back in time among mountains and streams,
Maori knew independence and what it means.

Customs and traditions governance of a tribe,
Freedom of movement and a place to hide,
Men and women plus children too,
Life was so peaceful yet there was plenty to do.

 For many moons midst fern and grass,
Days were busy and would quickly pass.
Neighbouring Chief's met the pressure was on,
Signing a Treaty to be safe for ever long.

Many came forward decisions were made,
Pomp and ceremony was truly displayed,
Appending their mark created a certain deal,
Yet for Tuhoe hidden agenda's it'd conceal.

Retaining their sovereignty had a heavy price,
The Treaty of Waitangi had a heavy price,
Those who signed now know their fears,
Battles and negotiations have carried on for years.

Most were resigned to meet their fate,
But not Tuhoe they persevere to date,
Even just recently invaded was their land,
Why this action they really can't understand.

When colonies are formed difficult it may be,
Yet in law we must study history,
Only by surrendering or conquered by force.
Can it follow as a matter of course?

With indigenous people and no governing law,
It was considered you could add one more,
Increasing the Commonwealth a claim of right,
But look closer at the legality of this site.

Yes it's true this kingdom still survives,
Thousands of Maori want their previous lives,
Isolated and condemned by those who don't know,
Its Tuhoe land where else can they go?

Study Constitutional Law research it real well,
If you're honest there's much to tell,
For and against it doesn't matter much,
Governments and others this they shouldn't touch

I really agree the facts seem plain,
Don't be fooled the Kingdom should remain,
Tuhoe's self government is entitled to stay,
Why ignore reality in this incredible way.

States exist elsewhere there'sCanberrafor one,
Also theVaticanso consider what is done,
Each has power and controls very well,
Live and let live as others that do dwell.
A media article about Tuhoe prompted this poem.
also my year at a Law Course at University allowed
me to study the factors as mentioned. I believe this
Kingdom or State, whatever it is called, should be
self governing and have the same power as other
States as mentioned. I don't consider they are
subject to any Treaty, that is not really Law at all.
This relates to the Treaty of Waitangi, signed by
many Chief's in 1840 inNew Zealandbut not the

Chief of Tuhoe.