Porirua has always been blessed with diverse councils in terms of age, gender, and ethnicity. That’s a history to be proud of. We are also lucky to be in the rohe of Ngāti Toa Rangatira, an iwi actively involved in the provision of housing, health, education, and environmental protection in our city.
Not all communities are like ours however and I support Māori wards as an important safeguard.
Special interest wards are not unusual. Rural wards have existed for many years on some councils.
The interests of tangata whenua are of course much more than a special interest.
Local government has authority in areas of critical importance to tangata whenua – land, water, waste management, harbours, and biodiversity to name a few. Mana whenua have a right to be represented at the council table and Māori wards recognise that right.
I will be voting for the retention of our Māori ward.