Mangakahia, Hamiora

Khamiora Mangakahia ( Maori Hāmiora Mangakāhia , 1838, Koromandel Peninsula - June 4, 1918) - public and political figure of the Maori people, chairman (prime minister) of the Maori Parliament (1892-1902), human rights activist (defended the right of the Maori people to decide white settlers in New Zealand own questions, in particular, the issue of land rights).

He received a Christian education, but kept the memory of his tribal genealogy and traditions. From his youth, he took part in disputes over the right to land and traditional Māori lands, which were then resolved in the Native Land Court. Despite numerous failures, he eventually became an experienced lawyer and received invitations to participate in litigation on land issues even from residents of places very distant from him. Since 1891, advocates the liquidation of this court.

An active participant in the Kotahitang movement, which fought to overcome tribal fragmentation, repeal legislation relating to Māori, and transfer these issues to the competence of Māori committees, which would resolve them according to local traditions. In 1892, the movement established the Maori Parliament, whose first chairman (prime minister) was elected Hamior Mangakahia. Parliament appealed to the colonial authorities demanding the abolition of the colonial Maori laws and guarantees of self-government for the local population. After the dissolution of parliament in 1902, he continued to engage in social activities until his death.

His wife, Mary Te Tai Mangakahia , was also an active public figure. In particular, she demanded that the Maori Parliament have the right for women to elect and be elected, but her demands were not accepted.