Former Whangārei mayor Sheryl Mai speaks out against Māori ward polling move
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Loading... - Ryder Smith
- 29 Aug 2024
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Former Whangārei Mayor Sheryl Mai expressed her satisfaction with the Whangārei District Council's decision to retain its Māori ward for the next elections but criticized the council's move to poll the community on the ward’s future, arguing it should have been avoided.
During the council meeting, which saw strong support from over 250 people through waiata, haka, and speeches, the decision to keep the Māori ward was confirmed, complying with new legal requirements to hold a binding referendum on the matter in the upcoming elections.
Mayor Vince Cocurullo emphasized the importance of community input through the binding referendum, unlike when the Māori ward was first established in 2022. However, he refrained from stating his personal stance on the ward. The meeting also saw a failed attempt led by Councillor Paul Yovich to abolish the ward, which was ultimately voted down by a 69% majority.
Te Kahu o Taonui co-chair Aperahama Kerepeti-Edwards praised the council's decision, highlighting that it reflected the community’s voice and sent a strong message to the government in support of Māori representation.
