Making Auckland GreaterMaori representation FAQs
Why isn’t the Government introducing Māori wards and separate representation for mana whenua?
The Government’s decision recognises there is already provision in the Local Government Act 2002 and the Local Electoral Act 2001 for specific recognition of the position of Māori.
When will decisions be made about Maori seats, local representation and local boundaries?
The government called for submission to the Select Committee which will look at these issues. Submissions closed on June 26. The Select Committee will begin its deliberations in July, and a further Bill with recommendations will go before Parliament once its deliberations are complete.
Will the decision for Maori seats be able to be revisited, if there are no Māori seats under the new legislation?
Under the Local Electoral Act, all councils, including the new Auckland Council, have the power to decide to have specific Māori seats and the voters, by referendum, are able to require this of the council, or to change a council decision on the matter.
Will the Auckland Council give consideration to Māori views?
Under the Local Government Act, there must be consideration given to Māori views (no other specific group is given the status accorded the tangata whenua). Also, councils are required to take the steps to provide opportunities for Māori to contribute to decision-making processes including fostering ways of developing Māori capacity to contribute to decision-making processes.
