Media Release                                                     August 25, 2009

Government Decision Against Maori Representation Demoralising

Te Runanga o Ngati Whatua chair, Naida Glavish says the unequivocal government ‘no’ to Maori representation on the new Auckland super council is yet another slap in the face for a people constantly striving for equivalence in New Zealand society.

“Day in day out, year in year out, century in century out we are told we are not equal. This is just more of the same; treating us as second class citizens,” she says.

Naida Glavish says not only is the decision a huge ‘put down’ it is short sighted and completely lacking in vision.

“Just imagine what a true partnership with manawhenua could deliver. We have so, so much to offer in terms of defining this city and this nation as unique, distinctive and innovative.”

Naida Glavish says it seems that the reorganisation of Auckland governance is fast heading towards an unrepresentative and bland future.

“We are in for more of the same; representation from middle class Pakeha that are fast becoming a minority and to date have shown precious little ability to make this city flourish.”

She says continuing to treat Maori as ‘mere stakeholders’ will maintain the status quo of poorly managed natural resources, ineffective consultation and ongoing inefficiency in decision making and planning for the city.

“ Even at their most creative, I don’t see how Pita Sharples and Rodney Hide can ever achieve the Prime Minister’s wish to find an alternative way for manawhenua to be represented that will be any different to the meaningless standing committees and taumata we have had to date.”

Naida Glavish says Ngati Whatua have always strenuously worked to progress Auckland as a great city, and have an enormous amount to offer if simply allowed to achieve a partnership status.   

Te Runanga o Ngati Whatua represents the iwi of Ngati Whatua across its rohe (region) including 32 marae across the region from the Tamaki River in the south to Maunganui Bluff and Whangarei in the north.

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