Ruapehu Council looks to boost Maori voice

Ruapehu Mayor Don Cameron says his council will have Māori representation one way or another.

Ruapehu District Council has decided to introduce Māori Wards in time for the 2022 local body elections, after a review into how it could improve Māori participation in decision making.

He's proud of the leadership taken by council, but the decision may still be subject to referendum.

"No matter what happens Māori representation will be looked at. If it's not the wards there will be other ways, standing committees. We are really determined to have proper Māori representation on our council," he says.

Mayor Cameron says he's encouraging people to support council's resolution and not see it as something to be feared.

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