Waitangi – Colonial Capitalism Comes to New Zealand with Tony Simpson (hosted by Nīkau Wi Neera)

The Wellington Socialist Society is pleased to once again welcome writer and historian Tony Simpson to Bedlam & Squalor for the highly relevant talk ‘Waitangi – Colonial Capital Comes to New Zealand’.

When Tony first encountered the Treaty in the 1970’s he was puzzled by certain aspects of its text and context. Over the succeeding fifty years he has grappled with these puzzles from the point of view of the Treaty’s Pākehā whakapapa.

Specifically, why was it proposed and what motivated those proposing it?

Ultimately his conclusion is that, as well as much else, it provided a portal through which international investment capital entered this country where it has squatted since exploiting our resources, something which has been by no means to the benefit of most people, Māori and Pākehā.

This event will be hosted by Nīkau Wi Neera, councillor for Te Whanganui-a-Tara Māori Ward and previous WSS speaker. Nīkau will also respond to points raised by Tony as ask further questions before opening-up to questions from the audience.

————————————————————————
Proceedings:
6:00 pm – Doors Open
6:30 pm – Introductions
6:35 pm – Lecture by Tony
7:10 pm – Response and questions from Nīkau
7:20 pm – intermission
7:30 pm – Audience Q&A

For those unable to attend we will have a live stream on the Wellington Socialist Society Facebook page.

Drinks and food will be available to order from the bar. As always, we are thankful to Bedlam & Squalor for hosting us.