He Tatau PounamuHe Tatau Pounamu

"Without an understanding of its foundations, the treaty is in danger of becoming either an historical artefact or a legalistic charter of rights. Neither of these extremes will bring back the life that was hoped for at Waitangi in 1840. We need to consider: what is so special about this historic agreement? Is this a covenantal relationship? If such a relationship is broken, how can it be restored? What should our response be? The words offered here are designed to hep us reflect on these questions, and to discern how best to respond--Dr Alistair Reese."--Page 21.