Māori Wards

No matter who we are or where we come from, most of us want a future where people and the environment are well cared for.

But some people and groups are trying to divide us, and divert us from these concerns that matter to so many of us. At times, this division has meant our councils are not able to make the best decisions for our long term - decisions that put care for people and our environment first. 

Māori Wards have been a positive solution. By bringing in Māori culture, knowledge and ways of life, councils have become a better reflection of our communities and our shared concerns. Māori Ward councillors have helped harness our collective strength by weaving our communities together so our councils can make better, long-term decisions that benefit all of us and the places we love.

This October, your community might be asked to vote on whether to keep your Māori Ward in the local body election. Even though Māori Wards are already working for many communities, the Coalition Government passed a law last year which means over 40 councils must run referendums on whether to keep Māori Wards. No other Wards are being targeted under this law change.

But we can do something about it. 

We need a super-majority of your community to vote to keep Māori Wards.

How to vote

  • If you are enrolled, you will receive your voting papers in the mail. Fill them out and follow the instructions.

  • If you are not enrolled, visit your local council website or contact your Electoral Officer to find out how to cast a special vote. 

How to get involved

Now is the time to keep Māori Wards going - because when we decide together as a community, we thrive together.