• Biography

Whai Ngata (1874-1926) was a prominent Māori leader, lawyer, and politician in New Zealand. He was born in the small town of Te Araroa, on the East Coast of the North Island, to a family of Ngāti Porou descent. He was educated at Te Aute College, and then went on to study law at Victoria University in Wellington.

Early Career

Ngata began his career as a lawyer in 1901, and quickly became a prominent figure in the Māori community. He was a strong advocate for Māori rights, and was instrumental in the establishment of the Māori Land Court in 1909. He also worked to improve the economic and social conditions of Māori people, and was a key figure in the development of the Māori welfare system.

Political Career

In 1905, Ngata was elected to the House of Representatives, becoming the first Māori to hold a seat in Parliament. He was re-elected in 1908, and served as Minister of Native Affairs from 1912 to 1919. During his time in office, he worked to improve the lives of Māori people, and was instrumental in the passing of the Māori Land Act of 1909, which gave Māori people greater control over their land. He also worked to improve Māori education, and was a strong advocate for the preservation of Māori culture and language.

Legacy

Ngata's legacy is one of great achievement and dedication to the Māori people. He was a tireless advocate for Māori rights, and worked to improve the economic and social conditions of Māori people. He was also a key figure in the development of the Māori welfare system, and was instrumental in the passing of the Māori Land Act of 1909. His legacy lives on in the form of the many Māori organisations and initiatives that he helped to establish, and in the many Māori people who continue to benefit from his work.

Date modified: Apr 3, 2023
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