Ruapehu District Council votes in favour of Māori wards for 2022
Monday, 2 November 2020
Ruapehu District Council is seeking to introduce Maori wards in time for the next local body elections.
Mayor Don Cameron said in a statement he was proud of the council for showing leadership and supporting the introduction of the wards.
The vote to introduce the wards resulted from a review of the best way to increase Māori participation in council decision-making.
They could be in place for at least the next two triennial elections in 2022 and 2025.
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Cameron called the council move a landmark decision “whose time has come”.
“Although there was not unanimous support with a 10 to two vote in favour, council was able to discuss the issue in a mature and respectful way which I hope will be reflected in how the wider community responds,” he said.
Dissenting councillors were concerned the decision could be considered as race-based, the statement said, and that there were other opportunities for Māori to be involved in council but the majority felt it would enhance engagement, “uphold the principles of partnership and participation and allow a way for Māori perspectives to help influence council thinking”.
The resolution in favour of establishing Māori wards does not mean they are automatically created.
The district’s electors will be advised of the right to a poll to countermand the decision – five per cent of enrolled electors (more than 385 people) must demand it.
If the council's resolution is not revoked by a poll the representation details of ward boundaries and number of members will then be formulated as part of the Basis of Election Review – with the opportunity for public input.
Cameron encouraged people to support the council resolution and not see it as something to fear.
“Under the Local Government Act council must review its electoral arrangements every six years so there is an opportunity to review how things are working at that time.”