Councils across New Zealand have been voting on the future of Māori wards, with a strong trend toward retaining them.
In a significant move, Northland City Council has been the latest council has voted unanimously to keep its Māori ward. This decision aligns with a nationwide pattern where nearly all councils have opted to maintain these wards.
Councils have also voiced criticism of the government’s requirement for binding polls on the future of these wards, describing it as “forced” and “discriminatory.” While Māori wards are confirmed for the 2025 local elections, polls will determine their status for subsequent elections in 2028 and 2031.
This decision was among the last before the national deadline, reflecting a broader commitment to ensuring Māori representation in local government. The move has been widely celebrated, particularly in areas with significant Māori youth populations, highlighting the importance of representation and inclusivity in shaping the future of local governance.
Despite the overall trend of retaining Māori wards, a few councils have chosen otherwise, with some decisions facing legal challenges, underscoring the ongoing debate over the best way to ensure fair representation across New Zealand.
OMG adorable she must be tiny
make sure you dont stand on her
i love my big poopy bum
this dog is so small and CUTE!!!!!! im gonna DIE!!!!
This is such a cute doggy! 9.1 cm is so cool. Having that type of dog, you’re holding the World Record for your dog, you’re the World Record holder, well, for you dog that is. Also how does it feel like to having the World’s Shortest Dog? That must be awesome taking care of a beautiful girl. Pearl!
i like dogs cuz theyre ugly and go woof barks bark woof-oof chuawahs are smaller than my big toe woof bye *barks*
I’d rather look at this then random stuff. This is so COOL! That must be awesome to have some type of dog!
That dog is so small!OMG!
not only is it the smallest dog its also the cutest :0 🙂
That us the cutest chihuahua ever!!! Omg imma dieeeeee
😍😍😍😍😍😍😍