A New Zealand newspaper has sparked outrage after declaring "protest-free news" and printing a white power symbol to mark the country's official founding as a European colony.

The New Zealand Herald drew ire from readers over its outspoken refusal to cover otherwise high-profile protests by indigenous Maori on Waitangi Day, a state holiday marking the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi between the British crown and tribal delegations.

Waitangi Day is a major media event in New Zealand, with protesters frequently challenging parliamentary leaders during their visits to the historic treaty grounds.