FIONA MACKENZIE: Why the Term "Non-Māori" is Unhelpful

Racial separatists in New Zealand have become significantly more strident of late, demanding undemocratic power and funding, along with greater control over anyone identifying as Māori. It all sounds scarily similar to the unhinged ranting of many of the world’s destructive despots. With this perilous state in mind, I ask our leaders to please take more care with their language.

Lumping New Zealanders into “Māori” or "non-Māori” categories is both lazy and misleading. This approach implies that those who cannot or choose not to identify as Māori are a less important, homogenous group that can be collectively relegated. Politically, this has already resulted in the “nons” having fewer rights in governance, legislation, public funding, and employment. So much for New Zealand being a democracy.

Meanwhile, those identifying as Māori are certainly not clones of each other with one world view or way of doing things (despite what the activists claim); neither are they of one ancestral bloodline or living distinctly different lives from all other New Zealanders.

So, the binary division is artificial and absurd. It totally ignores our country's history of migration and social mingling, and completely overlooks the healthy interconnectedness and interdependence of all communities within New Zealand.

The use of "non-Māori" is also dangerous. It positions Māori culture as the norm against which all people are measured. Rather than fostering unity and collaboration, this usage suggests a hierarchical relationship, creating barriers and fostering animosity in our society. Such tactics have been employed by many historical figures seeking to exert control over populations by delineating clear boundaries of exclusion and inclusion. By labelling people as "non-something”, such as “non-white”, “non-Han Chinese”, “non-Aryans”, or "non-believers", authorities and bullies throughout time have marginalised and devalued those who do not fit the preferred identity, justifying discriminatory practices, social hierarchies, and violence.

For New Zealand’s sake, it is essential that our leaders and policymakers adopt language that promotes inclusivity, respect, and recognition of diversity in our country. They can reject the belittling qualifier of "non-" and instead promote New Zealanders’ common humanity, shared experiences and love for this country, thereby fostering a sense of unity and belonging for us all.

Fiona Mackenzie is a businesswoman who has combined self-employment with voluntary work and is a firm believer in the safeguards that true democracy provides. She is also a Hobson's Pledge Trustee.