Mountain Becomes Person in New Zealand

Friday, 07 February, 2025132 words2 minutes

In a groundbreaking decision, New Zealand has granted legal personhood to Mount Taranaki, also known as Taranaki Maunga. This unique law recognizes the mountain as a living entity with rights, powers, and responsibilities similar to those of a human being.

The decision is particularly significant for the Māori people, who consider the mountain a sacred ancestor. It addresses historical injustices when the land was confiscated from the Māori during colonization. The new law aims to protect the mountain's well-being and restore its traditional uses.

A specially created entity will act as the 'face and voice' of the mountain, with representatives from local Māori tribes and government appointees. This approach reflects a growing trend in New Zealand to recognize the rights of nature and the cultural significance of natural features to Indigenous people.

Original News

Quiz

1. Why is granting personhood to Mount Taranaki significant?

It allows the mountain to vote in elections

It recognizes the mountain's importance to Māori culture

It turns the mountain into a tourist attraction

2. Who will represent the mountain's interests?

Only government officials

A group of international lawyers

A entity with Māori and government representatives

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