Separate Wards Means Separate New Zealand

Any move to create separate Maori wards in Auckland should be soundly rejected as they are divisive and will not necessarily gain Maori more representation on local councils, says New Zealand First Maori Affairs spokesperson Pita Paraone.

“New Zealand First strongly opposes separate race-based representation in local government. Such provisions only serve to divide us and will not increase Maori political representation,” said Mr Paraone.

“The real problem today is that many Kiwis, regardless of race, are apathetic when it comes to politics.

“It is particularly telling that a recent Marae DigiPoll found that almost 25 percent of those polled did not know that there was a general election due this year.

“Overcoming such apathy is absolutely key to improving Maori representation at all levels of government. Only through increased participation, rather than the allocation of mandated race-based positions, can Maori truly have their voices heard.

“If Maori want to increase their representation, then they need to go out there and vote,” said Mr Paraone.

ENDS

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