The Waitangi Treaty is an agreement signed in 1840 between the British Crown and various Māori chiefs in New Zealand. It aimed to establish a legal framework for British settlers while recognizing Māori land rights and sovereignty. The treaty is considered a foundational document for New Zealand's governance and relationship between the Māori and the Crown. The treaty consists of three main articles, addressing governance, land ownership, and the protection of Māori rights. Over the years, differing interpretations of the treaty have led to ongoing discussions and legal disputes, making it a significant aspect of New Zealand's history and contemporary society.