Over 400 Christian leaders have written an open letter asking the Government to stop the bill from going to Select Committee.

This list includes senior leaders of Catholic, Anglican, Methodist, Salvation Army and Vineyard denominations.

Very Reverend Jay Ruka from Taranaki Cathedral is one of the signatories - and he said the bill is built on an incorrect premise.

"I just think it's unwise - such a proposal should be put forth in that forum. By all means, let's talk about Te Tiriti o Waitangi and even at that forum, but let's compare apples to apples."

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