TENSIONS are running high in New Zealand over its approach to Maoris as the country marks its National Day on Tuesday.

The holiday, known as Waitangi Day, marks the anniversary of the Treaty of Waitangi, a foundation document signed by British colonists and Maori chiefs in 1840 that establishes and guides the relationship between New Zealand’s government and its indigenous population.

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and other members of his right-wing coalition government visited the historic treaty grounds in Waitangi, northern New Zealand for a public meeting with Maori leaders today.

The gathering took place amid months of protests against the government’s proposals to review the treaty and implement potential changes to how it affects modern laws.

After winning the election in October last year, Mr Luxon’s National Party-led government trailed a possible roll back in the use of the Maori language and Maori-specific public services, and a redefinition of the impact of the treaty on the legal system.

The proposals have sparked nationwide Maori protests, which culminated in a call for unity from the Maori king through a rare royal proclamation in December.

Maori speakers urged the government to change its course.

In a fiery speech, Maori leader Rahui Papa said: “Our sneaky strategy is to say it time and time and time again in every forum so that it catches your conscious and subconscious: that is to protect the Treaty of Waitangi.”

Several thousand people attended the event, with some reportedly holding signs splattered with fake blood, urging the government to “honour the treaty.”

Mr Luxon told the meeting: “The treaty is our past, present and future. It has shaped the country we have become, and the obligations it imposes on both sides will always be with us.

“However, we must aspire to go forward not as two sides, but together as New Zealanders because there is more that unites us than divides us.”