The designers of a Hastings school building and landscape, designed to represent the Heretaunga Plains when viewed from above, have received one of the most.
Takoto Noa Māori Standing Committee member Mike Paku said it was time “for our voice to come to the table”. “We re not the decision makers, it is you, council. We need you to step up and be leaders,” he said. “For us it s not just about sitting at this table, it s about recognition and giving respect to the Treaty of Waitangi, to our hapu and our iwi. Not just at this table, but throughout the country.” Commitee chairman Robin Hape said introducing Māori wards simply gave Māori the opportunity to choose a representative who had the interests of all Māori in the district and, acknowledging the current Māori leadership at the council table, the opportunity allowed for specific Māori representation.