May 20, 2021
Clean Sweep for Maaori Wards in Waikato
Clean Sweep for Maaori Wards in Waikato
20 May 2021
Waikato District Council has today followed in the footsteps of its surrounding councils by introducing Maaori wards in time for the 2022 local body elections.
Te Whakakitenga o Waikato chair Parekawhia McLean says this is a significant result because it provides for a Maaori voice on all local government bodies in our wider region.
“I want to celebrate the positive outcome today and the courage of councillors to do the right thing. This council is located at Ngaaruwaahia which is also the stronghold of Kiingitanga and so it makes sense for its leadership to provide a Maaori perspective at the decision-making table,” she says.
Waikato-Tainui Executive Chair Linda Te Aho agrees and adds this move is long overdue.
“Todays decision paves the way to reset the relationship with tangata whenua. We salute Moera Solomon who provided a matauranga Maaori voice at the council table for decades. Now we have the opportunity for guaranteed representation, and this will enhance decision-making on important issues that affect us and the things we treasure, our lands, our waters, and the livelihood of our people. We also acknowledge the leadership of Minister Mahuta who removed the barrier of the referendum.”
“We know we have fantastic skills and experience amongst our people, who can provide a rich cultural voice to the council table that better reflects the whole community.”
“The decisions made over the past two days will go down in history as historic and momentous. We have much to celebrate as we walk forward together on this shared journey.”
I acknowledge each and every person who submitted in favour, who spoke with passion and generosity, and who worked behind the scenes to achieve guaranteed representation in all councils in the Waikato-Tainui rohe,” says Linda.
Copyright © 2021, UMA Broadcasting Ltd: www.waateanews.com