How one church is deepening commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi
Reading for Justice
In the face of growing political tension and widespread misinformation surrounding the Treaty Principles Bill, a small group in St Heliers, Tāmaki Makaurau, decided to take a different approach: to read, reflect, and respond. What began as a response to national conversations clouded by disinformation, has grown into a regular and meaningful space for learning, dialogue, and connection — the Tiriti Justice Book Club.
Launched in August 2024, the monthly book club has around eight regular participants ranging from mid-20s to mid-80s and including both New Zealanders and immigrants. “Our diversity brings interesting perspectives to a shared kaupapa: understanding the historical and present-day significance of Te Tiriti o Waitangi,” says Rev Dr Jordan Redding, minister of St Heliers Presbyterian and a member of the book club.
“The book club grew out of our concern about the growing spread of ignorance around Te Tiriti. We saw an opportunity to learn about our history, the original intentions behind Te Tiriti o Waitangi, and the ongoing ramifications of the Crown’s failure to live up to its promises — as a way to combat much of the ignorance and misinformation out there."
“The book club grew out of our concern about the growing spread of ignorance around Te Tiriti. We saw an opportunity to learn about our history, the original intentions behind Te Tiriti o Waitangi, and the ongoing ramifications of the Crown’s failure to live up to its promises — as a way to combat much of the ignorance and misinformation out there.”
The book club, initiated by Romy Attewell and Alva Feldmeier, was established as part of a broader Tiriti Justice stream within their church community. While it began small, it has had a profound impact on those who attend.
Learning Through Story: Books That Challenge and Expand Understanding
Last November, some of the Tiriti Justice Book Club joined Te Hīkoi mō te Tiriti, standing in solidarity with others committed to upholding the Treaty.
From left to right: Rev Dr Jordan Redding, Edina Kuki and Hunor Csomortáni.
The book club reads a mix of non-fiction and fiction, often focusing on texts that challenge dominant narratives of New Zealand history. Selections have included Roimata Small’s “Understanding te Tiriti”, a concise introduction to the Treaty; Tīhema Baker’s “Turncoat”, exploring Treaty themes through fiction; Lucy Mackintosh’s “Shifting Grounds”, a deep dive into the layered histories of three Auckland sites and Tania Roxborogh’s “Bastion Point” a re-telling of the Bastion Point occupation exploring resistance and identity.
Books are typically broken down into manageable sections to support readers of all backgrounds, including those for whom English is not a first language. Group members can suggest titles and the facilitators curate a balanced reading list to ensure variety and depth.
The discussions are where the heart of the book club lies. “A book club enables deeper conversation over a sustained period,” says Jordan. “It fosters a longer lasting shift in perspective in the context of trusting relationships.”
One powerful example came from Shifting Grounds, which challenged assumptions about pre-colonial Māori society and early Auckland. The group learned that Māori land prior to colonisation often lacked defensive structures — suggesting periods of peace and prosperity, not constant warfare. Likewise, early colonial Auckland was surprisingly diverse, including a significant Chinese community and Pākehā settlers influenced by cultures beyond Britain.
These revelations not only reshape understandings of the past but also challenge notions of what “New Zealand culture” has historically looked like.
A Space for Dialogue, Disagreement, and Deepening Relationships
While participants don’t always agree, the space created by the book club allows for respectful disagreement and deeper connection. “Because the membership is fairly constant, we are building up strong, trusting relationships that enable us to gently challenge and explore where certain views come from.”
This openness has also helped church members get to know each other on a more personal level.
“Through reflecting on the books, we have all shared our own stories. It has enabled us to get to know one another at a deeper level than we otherwise would have.”
Though most attendees are church members, the book club has drawn in a few people from outside the congregation, showing potential for wider community engagement.
While the book club is primarily a space for learning, it has also led some members to action. Last November, some joined Te Hīkoi mō te Tiriti, standing in solidarity with others committed to upholding the Treaty.
There’s hope that this learning will spark further church or community initiatives, such as a local marae visit or a trip to Waitangi. Eventually, the group aspires to build a relationship with local mana whenua, Ngāti Paoa.
Looking Ahead: From Learning to Action and Solidarity
For those looking to start similar initiatives, the advice is to start small, use your local libraries to access books, include a mix of genre, and create space and ground rules for respectful conversation.
“Learning together flattens power dynamics,” says Jordan. “It enables a respect and honesty that might not be there otherwise. Our connections are strengthened when we are able to dialogue about sensitive topics, challenge one another’s perspectives, and still maintain relationship at the end of it.”
Looking ahead, the hope is that this work will deepen both personal and collective commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi.
“To become a more responsible tangata Tiriti,” says Jordan, “means learning our history, listening to Māori voices, and advocating for structural reform that ensures Māori have a voice at the decision-making table.”
“Education, is only the beginning. The ultimate goal is relational — to show up in solidarity, to support mana whenua, and to walk the long road toward justice, together.”
Justice, after all, starts with understanding.
The Tiriti Justice Book Club is made up of a diverse range of ages and ethnicities,
offering interesting perspectives to a shared Kaupapa.