Hon Dr Pita Sharples
Minister of Maori Affairs

1 April 2009 Media Release

Auckland needs better Maori representation

Maori Affairs Minister and MP for Tamaki Makaurau, Dr Pita Sharples, says many Maori have expressed serious concerns to him over proposals for Maori representation in Auckland’s ‘super-city’.

“The Royal Commission sees that Maori seats are essential to ensure Maori voices are heard. Greater Auckland has two mana whenua – those of Tainui descent and Ngati Whatua. The Commission’s proposals for a single seat are provocative and divisive. Mana whenua must both be included,” said Dr Sharples.

“On top of that, Auckland is has the largest Maori population in the world, drawn from tribes all over the country, and their culture must be expressed in civic affairs. The Commission recognises this, and I concur,” he said.

“Throughout Aotearoa, Maori experience is that tangata whenua do not get fair representation through local body elections. For instance, in Waitakere City, the vibrant Maori community of Te Whanau o Waipareira, based at Hoani Waititi marae, has endorsed a number of candidates over thirty years.

“Even eminently suitable people with national profiles as former politicians, community leaders and sportspeople have not been elected,” said Dr Sharples.

“Maori Advisory groups associated with councils do not compare because they have no decision-making powers.

“I am also gravely concerned that the election at large of ten councillors will no doubt work against Maori interests because, to succeed, candidates will need region-wide campaigns backed by party organisations and significant funding.

“Maori are already at a disadvantage in local elections, and the bigger the region, the higher the political and financial hurdles before them. At-large elections will disqualify even more of our people’s preferred candidates.

“There are a number of important issues here, and I will certainly be advocating for the most effective possible Maori representation in the new Auckland Council,” said Dr Sharples.

ENDS

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