While Māori representation in Parliament is guaranteed by the Māori seats, no similar guarantee exists at the level of local government. In fact, the Local Electoral Act 2001 requires proposed Māori wards be put to referendum if 5% of local voters request it. General wards are not subject to such a clause. 

ActionStation and Te Rōpū Tautoko Māori are calling on the government to amend this provision, making the law governing Māori wards equal to that which governs general wards.

Hanna spoke to Toni Boynton from Te Rōpū Tautoko Māori about the group's mahi, and what Māori representation means for local government policy, partnership under the Treaty of Waitangi, and democracy itself.