August 21, 2023
Western Bay of Plenty opts for Māori ward
A Māori community leader says Western Bay of Plenty District Council’s decision to create a Māori ward at the next local body elections is a huge step forward – after a 15 year battle.
When the issue was last raised in 2017, a poll found 78 percent against Maori wards.
This time the council decided not to invite public consultation before voting 9 to 3 in favour.
Mabel Wharekawa-Burt, says there’s still work to do.
“We should be, according to our numbers, entitled to at least two members on there, but that’s another road. The thing is, we’re in the door. It’s a fabulous day for my people,” she says.
Western Bay of Plenty is the 36th of 78 councils to establish Māori wards.