Moana Ellis Local Democracy Reporter14:02, May 25 2021
David Unwin/Stuff
Supporters of Māori wards have been out in force as councils decide whether to introduce wards in time for the 2022 elections, including in Feilding. Whanganui s council is the only one in the wider Manawatū not to back Māori wards.
Whanganui has lost the opportunity to introduce Māori wards at the 2022 local body elections but mayor Hamish McDouall says iwi may get seats this year on key council committees. Whanganui District Council has been taken to task by Ngā Wairiki Ngāti Apa chairman Pahia Turia for not contacting the iwi for its view on Māori wards, despite saying it would only consider Māori wards if three local iwi – Ngā Rauru, Ngā Wairiki Ngāti Apa and Tūpoho – signalled their support.