Toitū Te Aroha echoed through the streets of Tāmaki Makaurau as Te Pāti Māori MP Oriini Kaipara led her first hikoi since entering Parliament.
Chants rang out as hundreds marched behind her, united under a kaupapa organisers say is about love, inclusion, and standing against violence. Kaipara says the message extends beyond Māori communities.
“We, Aucklanders, are calling for an end to violence… let love be the enduring truth in all languages,” she says.
The hikoi brought together migrant communities, people of different faiths, and groups often marginalised in public debate. Marchers carried banners and flags representing diverse identities, reinforcing the kaupapa Toitū Te Aroha.
Among those present was Meto Shmidt Peke, who says aroha is something learned and passed on.
“My family has always instilled love in me. My goal is to do the same for others.”
Local mana whenua Ngāti Whātua also acknowledged the protest, offering their support.
“We’re here as representatives of Ngāti Whātua, we support them to have their protest on our land,” says Precious Clarke.
Nearby, a small group of Destiny Church followers observed the march, voicing contrasting views during vox pops.
For Kaipara, today’s hikoi also connects to a long whakapapa of protest. Her aunt’s confrontation during the 1990 Waitangi commemorations, during a visit by Queen Elizabeth II, remains a defining moment.
“We’ve been going to Waitangi for a long time to stand up to the government. It’s still violating the principles of the Treaty. This resistance is in my blood,” Kaipara says.
From Queen Street, the call was clear – unity without exclusion.
“Today we see the outpouring of love and the persistence of love, and it’s truly beautiful,” says Eru Kapa Kingi, Toitū Te Tiriti leader.