Luke Fitzmaurice-Brown

Guest writer

Luke Fitzmaurice-Brown (Te Aupōuri/Pākehā) is a lecturer in law at Te Herenga Waka Victoria University of Wellington. His PhD research focused on decolonising the child protection system, with a particular emphasis on ensuring the voices of tamariki and whānau are heard.

Image: The Spinoff

‘Undoing years of progress’: How the Treaty Principles Bill breaches te Tiriti

The failures are many and their consequences far-reaching, says the Waitangi Tribunal.

By Luke Fitzmaurice-Brown | 4th September, 2024

Image: The Spinoff

‘Division and social disorder’: The Waitangi Tribunal on the Treaty Principles Bill

According to the Waitangi Tribunal, even if the bill doesn't proceed past select committee stage, the damage will be done.

By Luke Fitzmaurice-Brown | 3rd September, 2024

Image: The Spinoff

Understanding the Waitangi Tribunal’s report on the Treaty Principles Bill

Act's bid to redefine the Treaty principles 'would have enormous constitutional implications'.

By Luke Fitzmaurice-Brown | 2nd September, 2024

Image: Tina Tiller

The Waitangi Tribunal’s latest report is about far more than just child protection

Its simple and forceful articulations of what Te Tiriti means, and of the Crown's obligations as Treaty partner, should have far-reaching impacts.

By Luke Fitzmaurice-Brown | 3rd May, 2024

Image: Tina Tiller

Stripping child protection law of Tiriti provisions would be huge step backwards

What the new government is proposing will be fought every step of the way, and decolonisation efforts will continue regardless.

By Luke Fitzmaurice-Brown | 28th November, 2023

It’s important that children’s voices are heard in court decisions Photo: RNZ

The tragedy of Malachi Subecz should prompt change, but not like this

Te Tiriti gives Māori the authority to solve these problems, and the state needs to step back and let that happen.

By Luke Fitzmaurice-Brown | 2nd December, 2022

Image: Tina Tiller

How is less accountability going to make Oranga Tamariki better?

Despite overwhelming opposition, the government is doubling down on reforms that equate to a significant reduction in transparency, accountability and independence.

By Luke Fitzmaurice-Brown | 16th June, 2022

(Image: Getty/Archi Banal)

Are we ready to scrap the role of Children’s Commissioner?

And is the government hoping no one will notice?

By Luke Fitzmaurice-Brown | 19th January, 2022

Getty Images

Power and devolution: the final chapter of the Oranga Tamariki inquiry

The Oranga Tamariki Waitangi Tribunal inquiry rests on one underlying issue: who should retain power?

By Luke Fitzmaurice-Brown | 2nd November, 2020

The Crusaders’ mascot, February 2, 2008 in Melbourne. (Photo: Mark Dadswell/Getty)

The Crusaders’ CEO says the name stays

Super Rugby team the Crusaders has decided to retain its name, despite it invoking a history of violence towards Muslims.

By Luke Fitzmaurice-Brown | 10th September, 2020