The continuing impact of amalgamation, assimilation and integration policies

Abstract

Calls for the peoples of Aotearoa New Zealand to come together in unity–tuī, tuī, tuituia–have featured frequently in oratory and writings over the 250 years since the bark HMS Endeavour reached these shores in October 1769. The Ministry of Culture and Heritage has included as a theme for Tuia–Encounters 250 events in 2019 ‘Dual Heritage, Shared Future–presenting a balanced and honest history to better understand each other, and build a strong foundation for a shared future.’ This paper focuses on the very high rate of prison incarceration in this country and the large number of Māori who are incarcerated. Current criminal justice policies undermine hopes for a positive dual heritage in a shared future. The significance of integration policies fostered by the Hunn Report 1960 is a particular focus. The article draws on an historical report of mine published in 2001 by the Waitangi Tribunal during the Wai 262 inquiry that led to the report Ko Aotearoa Tēnei [Waitangi Tribunal. 2011. Ko Aotearoa Tēnei: A report into claims concerning New Zealand law and policy affecting Māori culture and identity. Te Taumata Tuarua, Wellington: Legislation Direct] and then comments on recent criminal justice data and governmental policies. It is concluded that whole-of-government policies to address underlying issues of inequality, scarcity and deprivation existing in our midst are more important than tinkering with prison policies.