Summarised by Centrist
Local councils are grappling with a new law that could see the elimination of recently established Māori wards before the next election. Some mayors decry this as central government overreach, while others welcome the potential for referendums.
Far North District Council Mayor Moko Tepania criticised the legislation, calling it “incredibly disheartening” and unfairly targeting Māori wards. “Our Ngā Tai o Tokerau Māori ward has enhanced our representation, leadership and decision-making in the Far North,” he said, expressing hope that the community will vote to retain the ward in 2025.
Local Government Minister Simeon Brown defended the changes, stating that protections for Māori wards had been “divisive” and undermined democratic principles. “They took away the voices of local communities across the country,” Brown said, defending the government’s mandate to reverse Labour’s Māori wards legislation.
Wellington City Mayor Tory Whanau expressed concern, citing the importance of upholding Te Tiriti in council governance.
Gisborne Mayor Rehette Stoltz stated that the council had already agreed to put Māori wards to a community poll but will confirm this with councillors as requested by the government.
