First up on the issue this week, in a council meeting better described as a campaign launch, the Hastings District Council unanimously voted to stand by its previous creation of a Māori ward, triggering the need for a referendum on the matter in October 2025.
Most passionate were the Māori speakers — Ngati Kahungunu Chair Bayden Barber, Te Taiwhenua o Heretaunga Chair Mike Paku, HDC Councillor Heather Te Au Skipworth and Henry Heke, GM of Health HB, among others — at the session.
Several made clear that the persuasion that must occur over the next year needs to be directed at Pākehā voters.
Mayor Sandra Hazlehurst commented: “Our relationship with mana whenua has never been stronger, and it is disheartening that we are now required by Government to revisit this decision, one that we should be trusted to make for ourselves given we know our community – that is true localism.”
Councillors also directed Council’s chief executive to seek advice on the consequences of retaining the ward and not undertaking a poll. A revolution brewing?! More on that in a moment.
They also agreed to participate in a local government petition to the Crown seeking equal treatment of Māori, and not requiring binding polls as a pre-requisite for Māori representation in local government.
A day later the HB Regional Council also voted unanimously to retain its two Māori constituencies.
Regarding the referendum requirement, Māori Committee Co-chair Mike Paku put it forcefully, “We are not a political football!”
The political theme was underscored by Councillor Martin Williams, who termed the referendum requirement “outrageous … wrong-headed constitutionally, morally, factually, legally, and on the merits … creating a political tinderbox” when our region is faced with so much important work to do.
Councillor Williams called upon local governments across NZ to refuse to comply with the referendum requirement, stand up to the Government … “and let’s see who blinks first!”
His campaign might start by asking MPs Catherine Wedd and Katie Nimon to sign up … a test of what and whom they stand for.
Next week we’ll hear from the Napier and CHB Councils on the issue.
What is wrong with actually asking the people, the rate payers, of Hawkes Bay exactly what they think is appropriate for the region?.
The Legislation for referendum was put in place to ensure a democratic process for ALL New Zealanders.
Isn’t democracy what we want? Or only when it could work to our favour?
Democracy is not fit for purpose on this issue however.
Democracy allows the majority to vote away the rights of the minority, which is unfair, immoral and will divide us.
Better, wiser to consider the Treaty of Waitangi, where Maori have a seat at the table
There are more pakeha than Maori! so not democratic
I stand firmly with Martin Williams and have already voiced my opinion to both Catherine & Katie (in writing) as well as to my local Mayor, Kirsten Wise.
Let’s wait and see the results of LB elections and the referendum, assuming of course that both will be conducted fairly. Only then, will we know the will of the people. Patched gang members being allowed to attend LB meetings in numbers suggests illegal proceedings and intimidation. Councils should be aware that perception is reality in the midst of the electorate.
Let’s wait and see the results of LB elections and the referendum, assuming of course that both will be conducted fairly. Only then, will we know the will of the people. Patched gang members being allowed to attend LB meetings in numbers suggests illegal proceedings and intimidation. Councils should be aware that perception is reality in the midst of the electorate. One wonders why some are so opposed to open discussion of Treaty matters.
Local issue – local Government – why does Central Government have to stick their busybody noses in to local issues – given the drive by ACT, NZ First and National, it would seem to be a race issue rather than anything else. I’ve drawn my own conclusions and none of those parties can expect my vote next election.
What is the problem the Woke have with democracy
Maori Wards are a constitutional change which is why all ratepayers have the right to vote on them
If the deplorables win then so be it