Minister welcomes Whakatāne Māori ward decision
Wednesday, 15 November 2017, 8:37 pm
Press Release: New Zealand Government
Minister welcomes Whakatāne Māori ward decision
Local Government Minister Nanaia Mahuta today welcomed
Whakatāne District Council’s decision to establish Māori
wards.
“I welcome the Whakatāne District
Council’s decision to establish Māori wards to ensure
fair representation at the council table.”
“This
is a great opportunity for the local community to discuss
its representation and I encourage locals to engage in that
conversation.”
The Local Electoral Act 2001 allows
councils to establish Māori wards. The Act also allows 5%
of electors to petition for a binding poll on establishing
Māori wards.
“If successful Whakatāne District
Council will join Wairoa District Council in having new
Māori wards at the next local elections in 2019.”
The Bay of Plenty Regional Council and Waikato Regional
Council already have Māori constituencies.
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