Hon Parekura Horomia
Minister of Māori Affairs
Extra funding to support Māori wardens
Realising the potential of Māori wardens to support their communities, especially Māori youth, is the aim of a
significant investment provided by Budget 2007, says Māori Affairs Minister Parekura Horomia.
“One of the strengths of Māori wardens is their intimate knowledge of, and deep connection with, their local
communities. That is why the Labour-led government is committing more resources for them to continue their important
work. And it is why this government also supports establishing nationally- consistent training and support to ensure
they have the most positive impact."
Te Puni Kōkiri already provides $178,000 a year, which is shared between providing administrative assistance to the
Māori Wardens Association and funding local programmes targeting youth at risk.
"Budget 2007 provides $2.5 million for 2007/2008 to increase the capacity and capability of Māori Wardens. The funding
will cover enhanced training, improved resources including vehicles, communications and uniforms; as well as working
towards an improved governance structure for wardens.”
The investment, being made from re-prioritised operating funding within Te Puni Kōkiri, will improve links between Māori
Wardens and other government and non-government agencies, for the benefit of the whole community particularly Maori
youth,” Mr Horomia said.
“Training delivered to Māori Wardens will be developed by the Royal New Zealand Police College. A recent demonstration
course delivered to Rotorua Wardens was a resounding success.”
ENDS