New Zealand’s youngest MP in the Parliament, Hana-Rawhiti Kareariki Maipi-Clarke has again caught limelight for a dramatic protest at the Parliament. Notably, this is the second time that Hana has grabbed headlines worldwide. She had gained attention last year for her first speech in the parliament, where she had performed traditional Haka dance. This dance had taken the internet by storm and Hana had rose to popularity. Her video was widely shared and netizens admired her strength.

Why Is She Making Headlines Again?

Now, a video of New Zealand’s Parliament session has again gone viral, where Hana ripped up a copy of Treaty Principles Bill and performed Haka Maori war dance in protest. Several other members of House and spectators joined Hana in her dance. The dance spread quickly and prompted Speaker Gerry Brownlee to suspend the session.

Who Is Maipi–Clarke?

Hana-Rawhiti Kareariki Maipi-Clarke is a 22-year-old MP in New Zealand. She represents Te Pati Maori party (the only indigenous party in the country) in the Parliament. She serves as MP since the 2023 New Zealand General Election. Born on September 2002, Hana received her education at Te Wharekura o Rākaumangamanga in Huntly. At at age of 17, she launched her book, ‘Maahina’ which was based on Maaori lunar cycle calendar and astronomy

Hana has ancestry to several native tribes in Aotearoa, which includes Ngapuhi, Ngati Porou, Te Atiawa, Waikato, and Ngai Tahu. Her grandparents are staunch activists in Nga Tamatoa.

She trained New Zealand Warriors on maramataka and Matariki in 2023.

As per reports, Hana and her father were considered candidates for election, but she was chosen for her ‘youthful perspective.’ Reportedly, during the election campaign, she was subjected to multiple home invasions, which the party referred to as politically motivated.

Youngest MP In New Zealand Parliament

Elected as MP at the age of 21, Hana became second youngest Member of Parliament in New Zealand. She joined Parliament’s Maori affairs select committee by mid-December 2023. Hana also became Te Pati Maori’s spokesperson for Maori development, rangatahi, Maori language, Kai (food) sovereignty, agriculture, conservation, sports and recreation, food safety, biosecurity and customs.

She has been a vocal critic of New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and his government which is accused of pulling apart rights of Maori community. The organization described her influence as “Her involvement in the political realm has allowed young Maaori and the younger generation to have a voice within New Zealand’s democracy.”

She received One Young World Politician of the Year Award 2024 in mid-September.