Māori Ward Referendum FAQs

A community vote to decide on Māori representation in local government. Think of it as your chance to have a direct say in how your local council represents its community!

This referendum will be held alongside the 2025 council elections, giving community members a direct say in how Māori representation will work in their local council.

Under legislation introduced last year, communities now have the opportunity to vote on whether to keep or remove Māori wards and constituencies. This reflects the Government's commitment to transparent and community-driven decision-making about local representation.

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Everyone who is enrolled to vote! It doesn't matter if you're on the:

• Māori roll, or
• General roll

As long as you're an enrolled voter, you can have your say.

You'll be asked to decide whether to:

• Keep or remove the Ruapehu Māori Ward for Ruapehu District Council
• Keep or remove Tonga Māori and Raki Māori constituencies for Horizons Regional Council

There will be an extra question on your voting papers for the local elections. There will be a preliminary statement in both English and Te Reo Māori, followed by the Referendum Question in English.

• Voting opens: 9 September 2025
• Voting closes: 12 noon on 11 October 2025
• How: Voting papers will be mailed to enrolled voters

• The referendum result will impact local council elections in 2028 and 2031
• Councils MUST follow the referendum outcome

Important note: Māori representation will continue in the 2025-2027 council term regardless of the result

This vote is about:

• Ensuring fair representation
• Giving the community a direct say in local governance
• Reflecting the principles of partnership in Te Tiriti o Waitangi

Yes! You can choose between the Māori roll and General roll.

This decision affects which councillors you can vote for, it does not affect your ability to vote in the referendum.

Visit vote.nz or contact the electoral office for more information.

Your voice matters! While voting isn't compulsory, this referendum is your chance to:

• Shape local representation
• Have a say in your community's future
• Participate in an important democratic process

No! Every councillor:

• Takes an oath to represent the whole community
• Works for all residents and ratepayers
• Represents the entire district equally

Pro Tip: Don't miss this chance to make your voice heard! Check your enrollment, update your details, and be ready to vote!