Govt Restores Community Rights to Decide on Māori Wards with New Legislation

The new Bill mandates that councils which established Māori wards without a referendum must now hold a binding poll alongside the 2025 local elections.

The Government has fulfilled a major promise by restoring the right of local communities to decide on the introduction of Māori wards, according to Local Government Minister Simeon Brown. The passage of the Local Government (Electoral Legislation and Māori Wards and Māori Constituencies) Amendment Bill marks a return to local democratic decision-making regarding Māori wards.

“This legislation overturns the divisive policies of the previous government, which stripped local communities of their ability to decide on Māori wards,” Mr. Brown said. “The Bill re-establishes the right of voters to determine the presence of Māori wards on their councils, ensuring that local democracy and decision-making are upheld.”

The new Bill mandates that councils which established Māori wards without a referendum must now hold a binding poll alongside the 2025 local elections. This provision allows communities to express their views on the establishment and continuation of Māori wards, restoring local input into the process.

“The requirement for a poll ensures that every community has a say, reaffirming our commitment to local governance,” Mr. Brown noted. “Restoring the right to local referendums on Māori wards aligns with the promises made in both the ACT and NZ First coalition agreements with National.”

The legislation signifies a shift back to community-driven decisions, reflecting the Government’s commitment to upholding democratic principles in local governance.