Thousands marched in New Zealand on Friday, protesting a controversial bill that seeks to reinterpret the Treaty of Waitangi. The bill, which passed its first reading, has sparked nationwide rallies and a hikoi (march) to the capital.

The Treaty of Waitangi, which is the focus of the proposed bill, dates back to 1840 and is considered New Zealand's founding document. The agreement was signed by Māori chiefs and the British monarchy and focused on rectifying wrongs done to the indigenous people when the country was colonized.