At these grounds the Treaty of Waitangi was formed between the British and the Maori - a broad statement of principles on which the British and Māori made a political compact to found a nation state and build a government in New Zealand. New Zealanders often say they are from the 'youngest country on earth', not sure if the Maori use the same sentiment. Translation was a problem at the time and therefore many issues have arisen regarding the understanding of its principles.