First Female Deputy Chair For Treaty Committee

First Female Deputy Chair For Treaty Committee

Manukau City Council's Tiriti O Waitangi Committee has elected its first female deputy chair, Julie Wade.

Chair of Te Tiriti o Waitangi Committee Cr Alf Filipaina is looking forward to working with Mrs Wade, who was elected at the committee meeting on 6 December 2007. "Her vast experience in the Maori community will be an asset to the committee and the wider Manukau community," he says.

Mrs Wade is of Tainui descent and together with her marae whānau of Makaurau, Pūkaki and Te Manukanuka o Hoturoa has an extensive background in tribal and the wider Māori community development. Mrs Wade was appointed to the committee in April 2007 and says, "I am totally supportive of this committee's commitment to working with the Māori community in ways that bring practical benefits to both the council and our Maori communities."

Te Tiriti O Waitangi Committee facilitates Maori participation in council decision-making. The committee advises on issues that have Maori relevance and provides opportunities for Maori liaison with the council. Meetings are open to the public and take place every month. They include a public forum component, provided advance notice is given by groups or individuals of their desire to speak. For more information, go to www.manukau.govt.nz key words: Treaty of Waitangi.

ENDS