0 results available.

    Māori Ward Referendum

    What’s happening?

    As part of the 2025 local government elections, the Manawatū District Council will be holding a binding referendum on the future of its Māori ward (Ngā Tapuae o Mātangi).

    Voters will be asked:

    • Whether the Council should keep or remove the Māori Ward.
    • Whether Horizons Regional Council should keep or remove their two Māori Constituencies.

    Why is there a referendum?

    In 2024, the Government amended the Local Electoral Act 2001, requiring councils with Māori wards or constituencies to hold a binding referendum in 2025, unless one has already been held.

    • Note: This referendum will not affect the 2025 election. The Council elected in October 2025 will include a Māori ward councillor. The outcome of the referendum will determine whether the Māori ward continues in the 2028 elections and beyond.

    Anyone enrolled in the Manawatū District, whether on the general roll or Māori roll, is eligible to vote in the referendum.

    The referendum will be held alongside the 2025 local elections. Voting papers will be delivered from 9 September 2025, and voting closes at 12 noon on 11 October 2025.

    What do Māori Wards do?

    Māori wards and constituencies in local government:

    • Are similar to Māori electorates in central government.
    • Provide dedicated representation for Māori communities.
    • Allow only those on the Māori Parliamentary Electoral Roll to vote for Māori ward candidates.

    While Māori ward councillors are elected by voters on the Māori roll, they represent all residents of the district once elected - just like councillors from general wards.

    History of Ngā Tapuae o Mātangi Māori Ward

    Visit the following link for information about our previous Māori Ward and Representation Review: 2022 Māori Ward & Representation Review | Manawatū District Council

    What happens after the referendum?

    The result is binding. This means:

    • ✔️ If the majority vote to keep the Māori ward, it will remain in place for the 2028 election and beyond.
    • ❌ If the majority vote to remove the Māori ward, it will be disestablished from the 2028 election onwards.

    Further information

    For more on the elections and the referendum, including voting information, see the Elections page. The VoteLocal website also includes information on Māori ward/constituency referendums across the country: About Māori wards and constituencies - Vote 25 | Pōti 25

    If you have questions about the referendum or your enrolment, please contact:

    Ash Garstang
    Deputy Electoral Officer
    06 323 0000
    ash.garstang@mdc.govt.nz