South Wairarapa Mayor Alex Beijen says the council decided against establishing a Māori ward for the 2022 elections but would be discussing the possibility for the district in 2025.
A hīkoi through Martinborough on Thursday voiced concerns over South Wairarapa District Council s lack of a Māori ward.
Photo: LDR / Wairarapa Times Age / Marcus Anselm
Protesters halted work at the South Wairarapa District Council (SWDC) offices on Thursday as the deadline for establishing a Māori ward loomed.
Dozens of pro-ward activists debated with chief executive Harry Wilson inside the Martinborough headquarters for 20 minutes.
Beijen was not present, but SWDC did present a statement outlining that he was in favour of wards, but significant groundwork is still required before a fully informed report can be presented to council .