British Perspective:
* Control and Expansion: Britain sought to establish formal sovereignty over New Zealand, which was becoming increasingly attractive for British settlers. The Treaty allowed them to claim the land as part of the British Empire, granting them access to its resources and opening it up for colonization.
* Trade and Commerce: Britain desired to secure access to New Zealand's resources, particularly timber and agricultural produce. The treaty provided the legal framework for British trade and investment within the country.
* Peace and Order: With increasing numbers of British settlers arriving, there were concerns about potential conflicts with Māori. The Treaty was seen as a means of establishing a framework for peace and order, and preventing future disputes.
Māori Perspective:
* Protection and Sovereignty: Many Māori chiefs believed that the treaty would grant them protection from other European powers, notably the French who were also interested in New Zealand. They saw the treaty as a way to maintain their sovereignty and autonomy within a wider British framework.
* Partnership and Cooperation: Some Māori chiefs saw the treaty as a way to establish a partnership with the British Crown. They hoped that it would lead to fair trade, cooperation, and mutual respect between Māori and British.
* Access to Technology and Resources: The treaty offered Māori access to British technology and resources, which could be beneficial to their development.
Key Differences in Interpretation:
* Sovereignty: The most significant difference was the interpretation of the word "sovereignty". The British understood it to mean the transfer of full sovereignty to the Crown, while many Māori chiefs believed it meant the protection of their own authority and independence.
* Land: The Treaty contained two different versions, one in English and one in Māori. The English version stated that Māori ceded "sovereignty" over the land, while the Māori version spoke of granting "governance" over the land, a much weaker term. This created ambiguity about Māori land rights and eventually led to significant land confiscation and disputes.
In summary, the Treaty of Waitangi was a complex agreement signed for different reasons by both sides. While the British saw it as a means to establish sovereignty and control, many Māori believed it would ensure their protection and independence. These differing interpretations continue to shape the relationship between Māori and the New Zealand government today, with ongoing debates about the Treaty's meaning and the legacy of colonization.