Election meeting in Arakamu / Eltham

​On Tuesday night, I spoke at the meet the candidates hui in Arakamu / Eltham, organised by the Eltham Lions. The Taranaki Daily News journalist wrote this: 'Taranaki Regional Council (TRC) candidate Urs Signer promised a fresh vision for the council, including public transport and regenerative agriculture, and gave half his allotted four-minute speaking time to a plea for retaining Māori wards. “I encourage everyone to vote in favour of Maōri wards – Māori wards are about justice, recognising that Māori should have a seat at the table,” he said.'
I am not sure how many people I managed to convince but a sitting councillor came up to me afterwards and said he used to be opposed to Māori wards but has since changed his mind.
I support Māori aspirations for tino rangatiratanga, as guaranteed to hapū under Te Tiriti o Waitangi. The Māori wards are a small step towards Te Tiriti justice and were adopted by all councils across Taranaki because strong, inclusive representation makes better decisions that reflect the needs of the whole community. Māori Wards have been a positive solution. By bringing in Māori culture, knowledge and ways of life, councils have become a better reflection of our communities and our shared concerns. I encourage you to vote to keep Māori wards at this election.
Photos by Te Aroha Hohaia - thank you!