Hamilton City Council has confirmed it will continue the Maangai Maaori model for the 2025 – 2028 triennium.

Maangai Maaori are appointed members of specified committees of Council with full voting rights at those meetings.

Launched in 2018, the Maangai Maaori model improves Maaori involvement in Council decisions by offering professional expertise in their respective fields and valuable tangata whenua and maataa waaka perspectives.

In his Chair’s Report for today's (12 February) Council meeting,Mayor Tim Macindoe said Maangai Maaori make significant contributionstoHamilton City Council and are fully endorsed by city partners – Waikato-Tainuiand TeRūnangaoKirikiriroa(TROK).

“With new fast-track opportunities, boundary changes and the implementation ofIAWAI Flowing Waters (CCO), the demand forspecialisedMaaoriexpertise will remain high, complemented by the skillsets of Council’s elected
MaaoriWard representatives.”

At the beginning of every new triennium, Council must review and confirm whether it will retain the Maangai Maaori model.

Following today’s decision, representatives will continue to be appointed to three key committees:

Growth and Economic Development Committee – WaikatoTainui appointee

Finance and Assurance Committee – WaikatoTainui appointee

Community Committee – TROK.

Mayor Macindoe consulted with both WaikatoTainui and TROK on Maangai Maaori representation arrangements as required by Council’s contract with both organisations.

“Waikato-Tainui and TROK’s clear position continues to be that they see considerable relationship value and benefit for the city in the Maangai Maaori model and they wish it to continue. I agree. My strong view is that it strengthens our decision-making and they are valuable voices at the table,” said Mr Macindoe.

In favour of retaining Maangai Maaori: Mayor Macindoe, Councillors O’Leary, Pike, Casey-Cox, Mead, Moroney, Neha, Huata, Thomson, Strange, Karalus.

Against: Deputy Mayor Taylor, Councillors Liu, Bydder, Macdonald.

“I appreciate the spectrum of opinions held by my Elected Member colleagues and the constructive and respectful manner brought to today’s debate and decision,” said Mr Macindoe.

The total annual budget for Maangai Maaori is $144,000. Council will now progress the appointment process with WaikatoTainui and Te Rūnanga o Kirikiriroa, ahead of bringing appointments back to Council for ratification.

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