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Maori Affairs Minister Pita Sharples has confirmed plans to create a new body to take over Maori Television, the Maori Language Commission and Maori broadcast funding agency.
He says Te Matawai will now include one representative from each of the 7 dialectal regions, 3 representatives chosen by Maori language organisations, and 2 representatives appointed by the Minister of Maori Affairs on behalf of the Crown.
The structure was revised in light of public consultation that asked for increased representation for Maori language experts and practitioners; and ensuring the on-going role and commitment of the Crown to supporting Te Reo Maori.
The status of Te Taura Whiri i te Reo Maori and Te Mangai Paho will change from being Crown entities to statutory entities overseen by Te Matawai.
Te Matawai will also absorb the roles and functions of Te Putahi Paoho, which is the electoral college for the Maori Television Service.
Maori Television remains as a statutory entity, and will continue under dual oversight by the Minister of Maori Affairs and the Minister of Finance, alongside Te Matawai.
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