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New Zealand’s Parliament has passed groundbreaking legislation granting Mount Taranaki the same legal rights as a human being, marking a significant step forward in indigenous rights and environmental protection. Under the Taranaki Maunga Collective Redress Bill, the mountain will now be legally known as Te Kahui Tupua and jointly managed by local iwi (tribes) and the government.

Mount Taranaki holds deep spiritual significance for Māori communities, who regard it as a sacred ancestor. This legislative change recognises their enduring connection to the landmark while addressing historical grievances. Minister Paul Goldsmith highlighted the importance of acknowledging past injustices to support the aspirations of the iwi.

New Zealand has previously granted legal personhood to natural landmarks, including the Te Urewera forest (2014) and the Whanganui River (2017), ensuring their protection and cultural recognition.

Read the original article here: https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/world/new-zealand-grants-legal-personhood-to-mount-taranaki/ar-AA1yc2hm?ocid=BingNewsVerp