April 12, 2024
Gisborne fights back on Māori ward threat
Ikaroa-Rāwhiti MP Cushal Tangaere-Manuel is calling on more councils to follow the example of Gisborne and openly declare support for Māori wards.
Local Government Minister Simeon Brown is forcing legislation to force all councils to either drop their Maori ward or subject that decision to a referendum at next year’s election.
Gisborne District Council mayor Rehette Stoltz says both council and tangata whenua support the existing wards.
Ms Tangaere-Manuel, says she’s proud Te Tairawhiti is leading the fightback.
“Having spoken to Rawinia Ratahi-Parata, who’s one of the Maori ward councillors, she says whatever happens they will fight to stay at that table and support others being at that table. So, nga mihinui to Gisborne District Council,” she says.
Cushla Tangaere-Manuel says the coalition Government is pursuing politics of division.