*Limited Release*
 
100% cotton jacquard with embroidered stars
Oversized (generous) box fit
 
We had been waiting for a tohu to release this special project, and it came yesterday, in light of what is unfolding we bring you...

Hōne - A dedication to He Whakaputanga and the first chief to sign the declaration Hōne Heke Pōkai and a nod to Matua Hōne Harawira for his tireless mahi and dedication to the movement. 

Of the proceeds that come from this beautiful piece $18.35 per item will be donated to Toitū Te Tiriti. 


1835 Declaration: He Whakaputanga

Recognised by King William IV, it  declared New Zealand’s independence as a sovereign nation under the Māori chiefs. Signatures continued to be added until 1839, by which time it had 52 signatures. These included the signature of Te Wherowhero, the chief of Waikato who would later become the first Māori king.
The signatories were concerned about the intentions of the growing number of Europeans. British and Māori were both concerned about France competing for influence and the news of French warships sailing to New Zealand.
 
As a significant mark of Māori national identity, it would prevent other countries from making formal deals with Māori.

What was the significance of He Whakaputunga to the Treaty Of Waitangi?
 
Because of it, the British felt that the Treaty of Waitangi was required to bring law and order as more and more settlers, mainly British, arrived.
 
In the Declaration, the chiefs had agreed that in return for their protection of British subjects in their territory, King William would protect them against threats to their authority. Britain felt the Treaty would protect Māori as foreign interests continued to arrive, with the United States and France competing for influence in New Zealand, as well as private French and British companies planning settlements.
 
It would also cement the special relationship between Māori and British, built up over decades of personal, political and economic ties between the two peoples.

Source: www.waitangi.org.nz