This was about Maori settlements, not politicians. The Maori, under the Treaty of Waitangi, own the rivers, and the Crown (NZ Government) stole that right away

This was about Maori settlements, not politicians. The Maori, under the Treaty of Waitangi, own the rivers, and the Crown (NZ Government) stole that right away from them. (This is all in the article). The river's personhood is a compromise between the status quo and giving the land back. (and it's a marvellous region and river, that deserves to be left alone)