Results of the questionnaire sent to 1776 local body candidates around the country.
This report shows which candidates responded to the five questions listed below. Many also shared comments to support their answers, as you can see. We hope their responses help you evaluate which candidates are committed to upholding the key principles of democracy.
N.B. Candidates were contacted in constituencies where electoral officers had publicly released their contact details. Where this information wasn't available, we were unable to invite them to participate.
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| Council | Position | Name | Question 1: Do you support equal political rights? | Question 2: Do you believe that all New Zealanders are equal under the law, with the same rights and duties? | Question 3: Do you support the appointment of unelected individuals with voting rights to council committees? | Question 4: Would you support power-sharing arrangements with unelected parties? | Question 5: Do you support Māori wards? |
| Ashburton District Council | Mayoralty | Jeff Ryan | Yes. | Yes. | Yes. | No. | Yes. |
| Auckland Council | Albany Ward | Samuel Mills | Yes. ACT believes democracy means one person, one vote – no special treatment based on race, ancestry, gender, or sex. | Yes. Every New Zealander should enjoy the same rights and responsibilities, no matter who they are. | No. Councils should be accountable to voters, not run by people the public never had the chance to elect. | No. Local democracy only works when decisions are made by the people you elect, not behind closed doors. We will oppose giving unelected groups voting rights on councils or committees. | No. Everyone should have the same vote. Councils should represent areas and communities, not divide people by race. Council’s job is to work for all of us, and in a country with so many cultures, the fairest way is one system where every voice counts equally. |
| Auckland Council | Albert-Eden Local Board (Maungawhau Subdivision) | Jose Fowler | Yes. | Yes. | No. | No. | No. |
| Auckland Council | Albert-Eden Local Board (Maungawhau Subdivision) | Paul Sun | Yes. | Yes. | No. | No. | No. |
| Auckland Council | Aotea/Great Barrier Local Board | Gregory Heap | Yes. dfn of equal needed. If you mean one vote for each nz person entitled to vote, then - yes | Yes. self explanatory as in únder the law'. | No. democracy requires a consistent view ie voting in NZ requires the right to vote under law, not just anyone can vote. | No. Again - one needs the right to make decisions that affect everyone. This right is enshrined in law for nz citizens | No. Not needed |
| Auckland Council | Devonport-Takapuna Local Board | Michael Single | Yes. | Yes. | No. | No. | No. To be fair anything is better than the so-called Statutory Māori Authority. Currently 33% of Parliament MP'S are of Māori origin. At least a Māori Ward would be democratically elected but the conduct of Te Pati Māori in parliament does not inspire confidence . |
| Auckland Council | Franklin Local Board (Wairoa Subdivision) | Darron Gedge | Yes. | Yes. Rather, should be equal under the law, but Im not sure if this is true anymore. | No. | No. | No. |
| Auckland Council | Franklin Local Board (Wairoa Subdivision) | Nick Corlett | Yes. Yes let’s have all the fun of the fair raving right? Looney Tunes mosque shooters to transsexual groups that want to overtake all our public toilets even Bishop Tamaqui in his bully boys. His wife seems like a very nice person. | Yes. Yes, but currently some people sending me more equal than the rest of us landlords tobacco companies Escoba to our health system or education system, yeah | No. I don’t support people being put in positions because of their lineage. Their cultural heritage people should be in their through experience and abilities. | No. I’m not sure where that question is leading. Is it a bit of Mary bashing Hobson‘s Hobson‘s choice? I don’t know. Certainly I feel that people should be elected on their own merit. We have a system where we have Murray seats in Parliament for election election areas, so maybe that should apply to local body to Tucker and all that sort of thing | Yes. In the sense that we have awards in our central government electoral system so I would support something like that |
| Auckland Council | Franklin Local Board (Waiuku Subdivision) | Daymond Goulder-Horobin | Yes. One person one vote | Yes. It's what underpins a modern democratic society that we are all treated equally under the law. | No. Only elected individuals should get a vote in the direction or policy, elected individuals can appoint someone for operational purposes and/or key advisory roles were needed. Auckland Council staff have far too much power and need to be trimmed down. | No. Only those elected should have decision making power. | No. I believe I can Govern for all, we live in a unified society, we all have the same needs. |
| Auckland Council | Franklin Local Board (Waiuku Subdivision) | Tremayne Thompson | Yes. I believe all New Zealanders should enjoy equal political rights regardless of their background. Every eligible citizen should have the same opportunity to participate in the democratic process, to vote, to stand for election, and to have their voice heard and valued equally. | Yes. I believe all New Zealanders are equal under the law and should have the same rights and responsibilities. Our laws should treat everyone fairly and equally, no matter their background, and everyone should be held to the same standards. Equality before the law is a foundation of our democracy and something we must protect. | No. I believe decisions that affect our communities should be made by people who are directly accountable to them. While expert advice and community input are essential, those with voting rights on council committees should be elected representatives chosen by the people they serve. This helps maintain transparency, accountability, and trust in local decision-making. | No. I believe decision-making power should rest with those who are elected and directly accountable to the community. While it is important to listen to a wide range of voices and work collaboratively with community groups, iwi, and other stakeholders, ultimate decision-making authority should remain with those chosen by the people. | No. I support fair and effective representation for all communities. As Māori, I personally want to be elected AND be Māori, rather than be elected BECAUSE I am Māori. That distinction is important to me. I believe Māori voices, like all voices, should be heard in local decision-making, but I also believe Aucklanders should have a direct say on how that representation is structured. If Auckland Council were considering introducing Māori wards, I would support taking the question to a binding referendum so the community can decide together. |
| Auckland Council | Henderson-Massey Local Board | Ben Cox | Yes. ACT believes democracy means one person, one vote - no special treatment based on race, ancestry gender, or sex. | Yes. Every New Zealander should enjoy the same rights and responsibilities, no matter who they are. | No. Councils should be accountable to voters, not run by people the public never had the chance to elect. | No. Local democracy only works when decisions are made by the people you elect, not behind closed doors. We will oppose giving unelected groups voting rights on councils or committees. | No. Everyone should have the same vote. Councils should represent areas and communities, not divide people by race. Council's job is to work for all of us, and in a country with so many cultures, the fairest way is one system where every voice counts equally. |
| Auckland Council | Henderson-Massey Local Board | Repeka George-Koteka | Yes. Community development focus – I believe in listening to all voices, ensuring inclusion, and uplifting grassroots and rangatahi leadership. Cultural grounding – my work connects with Māori and Pacific frameworks, showing a deep respect for shared decision-making and equity. Advocacy for fairness – I priorities highlight equitable access to transport, public spaces, and opportunities. | Yes. Yes, all New Zealanders are equal under the law. But true equality means ensuring laws and systems uphold fairness in practice, not just in principle. | Yes. I support appointments where they bring essential knowledge, cultural partnership, or expertise that strengthens decisions — as long as the process is open and accountable. | No. Unelected members don’t face voters, so the public may feel decisions are being made without their consent. | Yes. “I support Māori wards because they honour Te Tiriti o Waitangi and ensure Māori voices are represented in local decision-making. Inclusive governance strengthens our communities, and Māori wards provide an equitable pathway for partnership, participation, and leadership.” |
| Auckland Council | Hibiscus and Bays Local Board (Hibiscus Coast Subdivision) | Andy Mackie | Yes. | Yes. | Yes. | No. | Yes. |
| Auckland Council | Hibiscus and Bays Local Board (Hibiscus Coast Subdivision) | Yang Qu | Yes. We are all New Zealand citizens so we should all share the same rights and responsibilities. I am just as much of a citizen as my fellow peers and should share the same political rights. | Yes. This is a no brainer, we are all the citizens of New Zealand we should not be divided by race or gender everyone should be treated equally and fairly. | No. The community and people elected and chose individuals who they feel will best represent in council, that is not only a privilege but also a responsibility of elected members. People who are not elected should not be put into a position where they making decisions for the community as that is not democracy, and the people, whom should be put first, was never given a choice. | No. | No. We are all New Zealand citizens we should all be treated the same Maori should be treated the same as everyone else we as a nation and people should not be divided by race. I stand against racism and division in our communities, we are all equal citizens and therefore I oppose Maori wards, but I do support Maori candidates who wish to give back to the community and participate in the up coming elections. |
| Auckland Council | Howick Local Board (Botany Subdivision) | Ali Dahche | Yes. ACT believes democracy means one person, one vote – no special treatment based on race, ancestry, gender, or sex. | Yes. Every New Zealander should enjoy the same rights and responsibilities, no matter who they are. | No. Councils should be accountable to voters, not run by people the public never had the chance to elect. | No. Local democracy only works when decisions are made by the people you elect, not behind closed doors. We will oppose giving unelected groups voting rights on councils or committees. | No. Everyone should have the same vote. Councils should represent areas and communities, not divide people by race. Council’s job is to work for all of us, and in a country with so many cultures, the fairest way is one system where every voice counts equally. |
| Auckland Council | Howick Local Board (Howick Subdivision) | William Goldberg | Yes. ACT believes democracy means one person, one vote – no special treatment based on race, ancestry, gender, or sex | Yes. Every New Zealander should enjoy the same rights and responsibilities, no matter who they are. | No. Councils should be accountable to voters, not run by people the public never had the chance to elect. | No. Local democracy only works when decisions are made by the people you elect, not behind closed doors. We will oppose giving unelected groups voting rights on councils or committees. | No. Everyone should have the same vote. Councils should represent areas and communities, not divide people by race. Council’s job is to work for all of us, and in a country with so many cultures, the fairest way is one system where every voice counts equally. |
| Auckland Council | Kaipātiki Local Board | Emma Ryburn-Phengsavath | Yes. I believe everyone should have the right to be elected democratically | Yes. | No. That is undemocratic and unfair to those who had to work hard to win their votes. Leaders should be voted in based on their merit and capacity to connect and advocate for their constituents. | Yes. | No. Currently, I do not support the concept of Māori Wards. However, I believe in ensuring Māori representation in decision-making. If the Māori Roll were removed and everyone had equal voting rights, it would create an opportunity for all constituents to vote for a Māori candidate. This approach would ensure that at least one Māori seat is established per Council or Local Board, with the entire community having the right to vote. If multiple Māori candidates run for a position on the Council or Board, they would have the same opportunity to be elected as any other candidate with the possibility of multiple Māori representation just as much as any other ethnicity. |
| Auckland Council | Kaipātiki Local Board | Martin Lundqvist | Yes. ACT believes democracy means one person, one vote – no special treatment based on race, ancestry, gender, or sex. | Yes. Every New Zealander should enjoy the same rights and responsibilities, no matter who they are. | No. Councils should be accountable to voters, not run by people the public never had the chance to elect. | No. Local democracy only works when decisions are made by the people you elect, not behind closed doors. We will oppose giving unelected groups voting rights on councils or committees. | No. Everyone should have the same vote. Councils should represent areas and communities, not divide people by race. Council’s job is to work for all of us, and in a country with so many cultures, the fairest way is one system where every voice counts equally. |
| Auckland Council | Kaipātiki Local Board | Raymond Tan | Yes. Have lived in NZ for over 34 years, born and raised in Singapore. Democracy is the only political system I know. | Yes. In Singapore, all citizens need to abide my the law and honour all treaties and agreements between countries and global institutions. NZ has mixed records of honouring agreements when it suits. | Yes. Good governance requires independence as advocated by the Institute of Directors, the Chartered Governance Institute NZ and other Governance Institutions. It is also promoted in many ovwrseas Master's of Public Administration courses e.g. Harvard, Cambridge, etc. | No. Power sharing is a misnomer, it is often mistaken as a 50-50 arrangement that can only be applied in tangible items. | Yes. Only in certain parts of New Zealand with specific historical significance and obligations. Dishonouring the past agreements is not a principle of Democracy |
| Auckland Council | Manukau Ward | Henrietta Devoe | Yes. I believe democracy means one person, one vote – no special treatment based on race, ancestry, gender, or sex. | Yes. Every New Zealander should enjoy the same rights and responsibilities, no matter who they are. | No. Councils should be accountable to voters, not run by people the public never had the chance to elect. | No. Local democracy only works when decisions are made by the people you elect, not behind closed doors. We will oppose giving unelected groups voting rights on councils or committees. | No. Everyone should have the same vote. Councils should represent areas and communities, not divide people by race. Council’s job is to work for all of us, and in a country with so many cultures, the fairest way is one system where every voice counts equally. |
| Auckland Council | Manurewa-Papakura Ward | Glenn William Archibald | Yes. | Yes. | No. | No. | No. |
| Auckland Council | Mayoralty | Kerrin Leoni | Yes. | Yes. | Yes. | Yes. | Yes. |
| Auckland Council | Mayoralty | Peter Wakeman | Yes. But money is used as speech, therefore those without have less financial influence | No. I believe there are differences, with respect to who the media choose, with respect to their narratives they report. | . The Government can appoint unelected Commissioners for Local Government to replace elected members. This is why it's not a yes or no answer. | . Most things revolve around finance and the Government can direct the Reserve Bank of New Zealand to create debt free money to reduce Council costs. This is why it's not a yes or no answer. | . I find it difficult who's interests are represented in this case , is it the environment first, or is it economics? This is why it's not a yes or no answer. |
| Auckland Council | Mayoralty | Ryan Pausina | Yes. This is a very broad question, but in essence I stand for the common good to rise above all other priorities. | No. Yes, except drug dealers of meth, I wonder if they should have any rights at all against crimes made unto themselves, legal and court costs are expensive and millions of dollars could be wasted in a trial of an injured or dead drug dealer. We just don't have the money at the minute, the legal system is big ticket and some cases are a clear case of karma that is not identified in the legal system. The wrong person is sometimes sent to jail as with the 1-2 million dollar Dean Fifield case. He was a murderer who accidentally was run over and died. | . | . | . |
| Auckland Council | Ōrākei Local Board | Amanda Lockyer | Yes. ACT believes democracy means one person, one vote – no special treatment based on race, ancestry, gender, or sex. | Yes. Every New Zealander should enjoy the same rights and responsibilities, no matter who they are. | No. Councils should be accountable to voters, not run by people the public never had the chance to elect. | No. Local democracy only works when decisions are made by the people you elect, not behind closed doors. We will oppose giving unelected groups voting rights on councils or committees. | No. Everyone should have the same vote. Councils should represent areas and communities, not divide people by race. Council’s job is to work for all of us, and in a country with so many cultures, the fairest way is one system where every voice counts equally. |
| Auckland Council | Ōrākei Local Board | Martin Mahler | Yes. ACT believes democracy means one person, one vote, with no privileges given on the basis of race, ancestry, gender, or sex. | Yes. All New Zealanders should share equal rights and responsibilities. | No. Councils must answer to voters, not be controlled by individuals who were never elected by the public. | No. Local democracy works only when elected representatives make the decisions, not when they are made in secret. I will resist any move to give unelected groups voting rights on councils or committees. | No. Every person should have an equal vote. Councils should represent communities as a whole, not separate people by race. Their role is to serve everyone, and in a diverse country, the fairest approach is one system where every voice counts equally. |
| Auckland Council | Ōrākei Local Board | Rob Meredith | Yes. ACT believes democracy means one person, one vote – no special treatment based on race, ancestry, gender, or sex. | Yes. Every New Zealander should enjoy the same rights and responsibilities, no matter who they are. | No. Councils should be accountable to voters, not run by people the public never had the chance to elect. | No. Local democracy only works when decisions are made by the people you elect, not behind closed doors. We will oppose giving unelected groups voting rights on councils or committees. | No. Everyone should have the same vote. Councils should represent areas and communities, not divide people by race. Council’s job is to work for all of us, and in a country with so many cultures, the fairest way is one system where every voice counts equally. |
| Auckland Council | Ōtara-Papatoetoe Local Board (Papatoetoe Subdivision) | Kushmangaran Nair | Yes. All citizens contribute equally to the Country therefore should be able to exercise their rights | Yes. When one is accepted as a Citizen an oath is taken by ALL for their allegiance to the Country so ALL New Zealander's are equal | No. In a democracy NO ONE is above the Law of the Country. An election is held to ensure the right's of the voters are respected. | No. If member's are appointed without proper elections, than there is inequality which is not right. | Yes. I respect the Maori Taonga and believe in Law's being entrenched within the Governance Law's to protect the Iwi's sacred spaces and belief's. |
| Auckland Council | Papakura Local Board | Felicity Auva'a | Yes. | Yes. | No. In certain circumstances if they bring valued, updated, stake holder knowledge happy to have them as part of the discussion in an advisory Person/Group capacity. | No. | Yes. How the Maori ward is established and how the member is elected should be through discussion with mana whenua. |
| Auckland Council | Puketāpapa Local Board | Mark John Price | Yes. The question is vague. I think if you are a citizen, you already have equal political rights. | Yes. I’m proudly Ngapuhi, Ngati Porou, and British descendant. I’m a New Zealander. The point of democracy is that the smallest lowest class person has the same voting status as someone with 1000x higher wealth. Tribalism and group-think is detrimental to the fabric of what it means to be a kiwi. | No. Democratic legitimacy hinges on accountability through the ballot box. Granting voting rights to unelected appointees, whether iwi representatives or youth councillors, undermines the principle that decision-making power must be earned through public mandate. Representation without election is governance without consent. I was born with blue eyes, why should something I’m genetically born with give me special privileges above another person? This is such 1800s level of thinking. | No. I’m not even willing to entertain the possibility. Only those who are voted in by the public through our election process should be entitled to any “power.” | No. Representation must be earned through public mandate not granted by statutory exception. Why should a certain group based on mixed ethnicity get a position they were not voted in for? Where else in society is this acceptable? Would you be okay with your team leader being railroaded by another person just because the person was female? |
| Auckland Council | Rodney Local Board (Kumeū Subdivision) | Brent Bailey | Yes. I believe that we are all equal. Unelected representation is an offense to representative democracy. | Yes. Equal opportunity is important, but outcomes are largely for the individual to take responsibility for. | No. Unelected representation is an offense to representative democracy. | No. Unelected activists are already a problem for elected representatives. They bully and intimidate where they are able. | No. The elected representation in New Zealand is already as diverse as our communities of interest. |
| Auckland Council | Rodney Local Board (Northern Rodney Subdivision) | Colin Smith | Yes. It is one for all and all for one no matter race creed or color | Yes. Same as above | No. You have to be mentored by experience knowledge and history before any voting rights given | Yes. Groups made up of different parties bring better resolutions from experience | No. We are born of the land and do not separate any culture. division breeds contempt |
| Auckland Council | Upper Harbour Local Board | Apurv Shukla | Yes. Yes, I fully support equal political rights | Yes. Yes, I believe all New Zealanders are equal under the law and share the same rights and responsibilities as citizens | No. | No. | Yes. |
| Auckland Council | Upper Harbour Local Board | John Mclean | Yes. | Yes. | No. | No. | No. |
| Auckland Council | Upper Harbour Local Board | Uzra Balouch | Yes. | Yes. | No. | No. | . I would have supported them if there was sufficient support from Aucklanders but consultation in 2023 showed that there wasn't. My role is to listen and represent the community's views. |
| Auckland Council | Waitākere Ranges Local Board | Diane Blomfield | Yes. Equal opportunities, human rights are best served by a well functioning democracy. Democracy will work best when everyone has some level of empowerment and some agency over their lives. Democracy will work best when people feel they have a voice and some influence over decisions that impact on their community and neighbourhood. | Yes. Most people do the best they can with the resources and information they have to hand. Our laws are developing continuously to respect the rights and responsibilities of its citizens. | Yes. Committees will work best with a range of voices around the table. Elected representatives will not always have expert subject knowledge. Representatives from stakeholders will be critical for effective committee SMART decision making. | Yes. I have a track record of working in complex multi-stakeholder contexts. Bringing together local knowledge holders and interested 'impacted' parties, subject experts, progressive voices and community based professionals together to address our complex issues across divisions could make for a far more dynamic equitable process and outcome. | Yes. Māori voice and engagement at decision making tables has only recently achieved current levels necessary to best represent their communities on decisions that have a big impact on Māori. |
| Auckland Council | Waitākere Ranges Local Board | Linda Potauaine | Yes. Yes, I support equal political rights, because democracy only works when every voice carries equal weight. No one person’s voice should be louder, stronger, or more privileged than another’s - not because of wealth, status, age, or race. Political participation must be grounded in fairness, not favoritism. Race should never be a factor in determining whose voice matters more. | Yes. See above | No. not when those individuals hold full voting rights. Democracy relies on an even playing field, where decisions are made by those who are elected to represent the community’s voice. When unelected individuals are given the same voting power as elected members, it undermines that principle. I have no issue with seeking specialist advice or inviting external expertise when needed — in fact, good governance depends on it. But advice is not the same as authority. Voting rights should be reserved for those who are chosen by the people, through a transparent and accountable process. Anything else risks sidelining the very communities we’re meant to serve. | No. See above | No. |
| Auckland Council | Waitākere Ward | Serge Roud | Yes. I genuinely believe that all citizens of New Zealand, regardless of their race, background, or social status must have equal political rights. Please note that this rule might have a limitation in relation to convicted criminals in prisons and mentally disabled people in psychiatric institutions. | Yes. Absolutely. | No. Absolutely not. This undermines the basic principles of democracy. | No. Please see my answer to the question 3. | No. As I stated above, all citizens of New Zealand must have equal legal and political rights. There must be no political institutions or bodies based on race. |
| Auckland Council | Waitematā and Gulf Ward | Ian Loan | Yes. | Yes. | No. | No. | No. |
| Auckland Council | Waitematā Local Board | Greg Moyle | Yes. | Yes. | No. | No. | No. |
| Auckland Council | Waitematā Local Board | Selena Yanpei-Lu Renner | Yes. Yes. I believe every New Zealander should have equal political rights, regardless of background, heritage, or circumstances. This is fundamental to a fair democracy. | Yes. Yes. Equality before the law is a cornerstone of a democratic society. While we must acknowledge historic injustices, the law must apply equally to everyone, with the same responsibilities and protections. | No. No. While expert input and community voices are important, decision-making power should rest with those directly elected by the people to ensure democratic accountability. | No. No. Governance must remain accountable to voters. I support collaboration and consultation with diverse communities, but final decisions should be made by elected representatives. | No. I believe it is the duty of every elected representative to fairly and properly represent their community of all ethnic backgrounds. Māori hold an important place in New Zealand society, and are fully capable of standing for election to boards and council, as already reflected in the current make-up of elected members. Instead of creating separate elections by ethnicity, which I believe can be divisive, we should focus on improving voter participation and engagement across all communities. With local government elections currently attracting very low turnout, the priority should be lifting participation, upskilling and building better understanding, so that all ethnicities are strongly represented through the democratic process. |
| Bay of Plenty Regional Council | Mauao Maori Regional Constituency | Te Taru White | . I am a Tiriti o Waitangi Advocate. and rights for me are defined within this framework. In this context equality is questionable | . I am a Te Tiriti o Waitangi advocate so answer as above | Yes. Yes, if it is deemed, they have appropriate skill sets and qualifications and are supported by a majority of elected members. | Yes. Te Tiriti Framework comes into my answer again ....If it made sense, a case was made and they could add value ....why not? | Yes. Absolutely. Again, I use Te Tiriti o Waitangi as the framework for this but even if Maori wards as they currently stand falls short of the mark and they do, it enables the iwi voice to be around the table. |
| Bay of Plenty Regional Council | Tauranga Regional Constituency | Daniel Harvey | Yes. | Yes. | No. | No. | Yes. |
| Bay of Plenty Regional Council | Tauranga Regional Constituency | Murray Guy | Yes. Equal rights in all things. | Yes. Not negotiable | No. If a committee of council requires additional expertise from time to time staff can provide it or as necessary external consultant | No. No means no. | No. For the most part, due to what appears to be an inability to participate in decision-making processes that are consistent with the Local Government Act, an open mind, no predetermination coupled with best outcomes for the community as a whole. |
| Bay of Plenty Regional Council | Tauranga Regional Constituency | Ron Scott | Yes. | Yes. | No. | No. | No. |
| Bay of Plenty Regional Council | Western Bay of Plenty Regional Constituency | Ken Shirley | Yes. | Yes. | No. | Yes. Community engagement and involvement is a form of power sharing | No. |
| Bay of Plenty Regional Council | Western Bay of Plenty Regional Constituency | Neil Parker | Yes. | Yes. | No. | No. | No. |
| Buller District Council | Westport Ward | Nick Gear | Yes. | Yes. | No. | No. | Yes. |
| Buller District Council | Westport Ward | Paul Reynolds | Yes. | Yes. | No. | No. | No. |
| Carterton District Council | Council - At Large | Grace Ayling | Yes. | Yes. | No. | No. | No. No and I voted against them in my council this triennium . |
| Carterton District Council | Council - At Large | John Futter | Yes. | Yes. | No. | No. | Yes. |
| Central Hawke's Bay District Council | Ruataniwha General Ward | Murray Kenderdine | Yes. | Yes. | No. | No. | No. |
| Central Hawke's Bay District Council | Ruataniwha General Ward | Tim gilbertson | Yes. | Yes. | No. | No. | No. |
| Central Otago District Council | Cromwell Ward | Dave George | Yes. ...easy to understand... | Yes. Yes... | No. Easy to understand. | Yes. On a case by case basis... | No. This would not apply to our district, in any case. |
| Central Otago District Council | Cromwell Ward | Stephen G Carruth | Yes. I do not support rights that are conferred according to when your forefathers or ancestors arrived in New Zealand | Yes. | No. Under no circumstances. This clearly undermines the principles of democracy and New Zealanders democratic rights (in my view) | No. Under no circumstances | No. Antiquated model that was brought in as a political fix. Nowadays it is a driver of division. |
| Central Otago District Council | Mayoralty | Mark Quinn | Yes. | Yes. | No. | Yes. | No. |
| Central Otago District Council | Vincent Ward | Cam Withington | Yes. One person - one vote. No Maori Wards or Maori Electorates | Yes. and responsiblities. Ancestral grievances are not a reason to neglect responsiblities | No. Entry is through the front door where every other lobby group enters - during the public submission process | No. As with Q3 | No. |
| Central Otago District Council | Vincent Ward | Kas McEntyre | . Yes, I absolutely support equal political rights. | . Yes, without exception. | . No. We have an electoral system that I believe they should also use. | . No. | . No. The way this has been done is undemocratic. |
| Central Otago District Council | Vincent Ward | Tracy Paterson | Yes. | Yes. | No. | No. Could be a maybe if the circumstances meant that the community would benefit. | . That is a matter for the community to decide. |
| Christchurch City Council | Coastal Ward Councillor | Taraia Brown | Yes. | No. | No. | No. | Yes. |
| Christchurch City Council | Mayoralty | Peter Wakeman | Yes. But money is used as speech, therefore those without have less financial influence | No. I believe there are differences, with respect to who the media choose, with respect to their narratives they report. | . The Government can appoint unelected Commissioners for Local Government to replace elected members. This is why it's not a yes or no answer. | . Most things revolve around finance and the Government can direct the Reserve Bank of New Zealand to create debt free money to reduce Council costs. This is why it's not a yes or no answer. | . I find it difficult who's interests are represented in this case , is it the environment first, or is it economics? This is why it's not a yes or no answer. |
| Christchurch City Council | Mayoralty | Thomas Healey | Yes. | Yes. | No. | No. | No. |
| Christchurch City Council | Spreydon Ward Councillor | Terry Craze | Yes. Do you support equal political rights? | Yes. Yes, I believe all New Zealanders should be equal under the law, with the same rights and duties. Our laws should be applied fairly, without favouritism or special treatment, because equal treatment is the foundation of democracy. While we must always respect our history and honour the Treaty of Waitangi, I believe the best future for our country is one where every New Zealander is empowered to succeed on their own merit, where personal responsibility is valued, and where the law protects everyone equally. | No. No, I don’t support giving unelected individuals voting rights on council committees. Councillors are chosen by the people through the ballot box, and only those who are elected should hold voting power. Committees can and should benefit from expert advice and community voices, but that input should be advisory, not decisive. Accountability is a cornerstone of democracy, and voting rights must remain with those who are directly answerable to the public. | No. No, I would not support power-sharing arrangements with unelected parties. Democracy only works when those making decisions are chosen by and accountable to the voters. While it’s important to listen to a wide range of voices and work in partnership with community groups, iwi, and stakeholders, ultimate decision-making power must stay with the people’s elected representatives. Anything else undermines transparency and public trust. | No. I do not support Māori wards. All councillors should be elected by, and accountable to, the whole community. We already have a system where every New Zealander has the same right to vote and stand for election, and I believe representation should come through merit and community choice, not separate electoral categories. I am committed to working with iwi and Māori organisations, but that can be achieved through partnership, consultation, and respect — without dividing people at the ballot box. |
| Clutha District Council | Balclutha Ward | Ruth Baldwin | Yes. | . | No. | No. | No. As a Ngai Tahu Kaumatua, I support our iwi position, and don't think it is necessary in our District to have Maori wards. |
| Dunedin City Council | Council - At Large | Anthony Kenny | Yes. Democracy means one person, one vote – no special treatment based on race, ancestry, gender, or sex. | Yes. Every New Zealander should enjoy the same rights and responsibilities, no matter who they are. | No. Councils should be accountable to voters, not run by people the public never had the chance to elect. | No. Local democracy only works when decisions are made by the people you elect, not behind closed doors. I will oppose giving unelected groups voting rights on councils or committees. | No. Everyone should have the same vote. Councils should represent areas and communities, not divide people by race. Council’s job is to work for all of us, and in a country with so many cultures, the fairest way is one system where every voice counts equally. |
| Dunedin City Council | Council - At Large | Conrad Stedman | Yes. | Yes. | No. | Yes. | Yes. |
| Dunedin City Council | Council - At Large | Hugh O’Neill | Yes. One mana, one vote | Yes. It’s a no-brainer. All men are equal before God and man. | No. Only elected officials may vote. Otherwise it is wide open to corruption | No. Madness | No. As above. To allocate place on council wo unvoted parties is an insult to Maori who are perfectly able to win in a democratic and fair election. Democracy is colour blind. |
| Dunedin City Council | Council - At Large | Jen Olsen | Yes. I support equity of political rights, because we do not all start from a place of equality | No. All New Zealanders should be equal but they are not because of the deep inequities in our society, which result in inequality of wealth, status and education. This results in some people not being able to access the same level of rights under the law. An obvious example is the cost of legal representation, which heavily favours people who are more wealthy. Another is the well documented institutional racial bias of the police and judicial system. | Yes. I support iwi representation on committees. | Yes. I support power sharing with mana whenua | Yes. Māori have the right to be represented and have been ignored for too long. |
| Dunedin City Council | Council - At Large | Lily Warring | Yes. I support equitable political rights. I support equal rights so long as the playing field is equal from the beginning. | No. Under the current law, no I do not believe all New Zealanders have equal rights. | Yes. | Yes. | Yes. |
| Dunedin City Council | Council - At Large | Marian Poole | Yes. this isthe foundation of democracy | Yes. democracy in action | Yes. necessary to redress inequities created by the Crown's neglect of our nation's founding document, Te Tiriti | No. where expert advice is sought it needs to be respected but through to a final decision | Yes. necessary to address systemic inequities |
| Dunedin City Council | Council - At Large | Rebecca (Bex) Twemlow | Yes. Yes. Of Course. Everyone deserves a voice and rights represented at the table because that’s how democracy works and how communities move forward together. The challenge is this is an absolute hideous process and therefore quite of inclusion is necessary. We didn’t all start at the same base. | Yes. Yes but with context. In principle, everyone should be equal under the law, with the same rights and duties. The reality is we didn’t all start at the same base, so genuine equality means making space for equity. That’s why inclusion matters, because fairness isn’t just about the words in law, it’s about how those laws play out for people in real life. | No. | No. | No. I support Māori wards where communities choose them. In Dunedin we don’t currently have them, and mana whenua have instead chosen to be represented through alternate means. The principle is the same ensuring Māori voices are present and respected at the decision-making table. |
| Dunedin City Council | Mayoralty | Carmen Houlahan | Yes. | No. Lower social economic multi ethnic people are not equal in statistic, particularly Māori are overly represented in crime, prison numbers, poor heath, lower education statistics. | Yes. Yes I do on our council because we have an MOU with manawhenua on two of our committees | Yes. Maybe it depends on the circumstances. If it’s a takeover no. There has been talk of us merging with ORC. That is something I would consider | Yes. If mana whenua want them |
| Dunedin City Council | Mayoralty | Mandy Mayhem-Bullock | Yes. | Yes. | Yes. | . | Yes. |
| Dunedin City Council | Mayoralty | Ruthven Allimrac | Yes. I believe in lowering the voting age to 16 and allowing online voting. | Yes. | Yes. There should be at minimum representatives of local iwi with a guaranteed voting seat on council. There should be other seats for other groups and whether or not that have equal voting power should be discussed, but it is a conversation worth having. | Yes. The way the election system works opens it to manipulation where so much of the population feels (rightfully) despondent and unmotivated to vote, leading to only a small percentage of the population holding power. And that's not even taking into account the horrific attacks on voting rights this current Central Government is making. Parties that represent major parts of the community such as unions and queer advocacy groups deserve a seat on the table. | Yes. Yes but I don't think they go far enough. Local iwi should have guaranteed seats on local council. |
| Dunedin City Council | Council - At Large | Russell Lund | Yes. | Yes. | No. | No. | No. |
| Dunedin City Council | Mayoralty | Marie Laufiso | . What does "equal" even mean in this context? If you are speaking of the rights to: vote, stand for office and participate in government - I support these. Whether these are supported and equitably resourced is a different question. | . Whether I "believe" this or not, the drafting, passing and application of "the law" with respect to Tāngata whenua has rarely been even-handed or without bias since 1852. | Yes. Long before we had mana whenua as members of our 2 council committees, we had unelected members on our Audit and Risk Committee. If You are speaking only of mana whenua, I 100% support this. Firstly, they are not "individuals" but are accountable to their rūnaka. Secondly, Aotearoa always was, always will be Māori land. | . See above: comment for Q4 | Yes. The (British) Constitution Act of 1852 was an abrogation of Te Tiriti o Waitangi that granted a representative constitution to the colony. When NZ's Parliament was established, Māori voters (male, over 21 years of age and landowners) were entitled to 14-18 seats but were allocated 4. Wards are a mechanism to restore some balance at local government level. |
| Environment Canterbury | Christchurch Central/Ohoko | Lindon Boyce | Yes. | Yes. | No. Absolutely not | No. | No. |
| Environment Canterbury | Christchurch Central/Ohoko | Ross Boswell | Yes. | Yes. | Yes. At present 2 of 16 councillors of ECan are appointed by Ngai Tahu. The outgoing council has reported that this arrangement is working well and has reduced legal costs foe ECan. I don't have experience that would lead me to terminate that arrangement, so I accept it for the present. | Yes. As above, 2 of 16 ECan councillors are Ngai Tahu appointees with voting rights. I don't have experience that would lead me to terminate that arrangement. | Yes. I believe Maori constituencies would provide a more democratic solution than the current arrangement with appointed councillors. |
| Environment Canterbury | Christchurch South/Owhanga | Bill Kingston | Yes. I believe all New Zealanders should have the same civil and political rights. One person = one vote. | Yes. | No. No. I believe in democracy where decision-makers are elected by the people they represent. | No. Local government should have constructive working relationships with stakeholders, but the elected council should retain power over public goods. | No. I believe any New Zealander of any background can put themselves forward and be elected based on merit without needing designated wards for specific groups. |
| Environment Canterbury | Christchurch South/Owhanga | Mike Okey | Yes. | Yes. | No. | No. | . |
| Environment Canterbury | Christchurch South/Owhanga | Mananui Ramsden | Yes. I believe in diversity of thought, culture, community and beliefs. I think that our nation has a unique place in history shaped off our Te Tiriti o Waitangi. We can own our past, our present and our future, collectively, as we all sit in our differences. | No. I believe the we have dramatic legislative inequalities raging from property right, gender rights, justice and health care rights. | Yes. This is charged question, designed to evoke emotion and outrage, especially from those in our community that either don’t know our nation’s history, or chooses historical amnesia. On the surface it seems fair, but when you pull it apart it is far from fair. We have a unique national DNA built off a mutual commitment from two parties to A. Allow for British subjects and Tākata Tiriti safe and quotable rights on these rocks in the South Pacific. And B. The affirmation of Hapū and Iwi Māori to continue their way of life, customs and justice. Now, to my point, democracy in this country naturalised its mana byway of our Treaty Partnership. How could one practice democracy in someone else’s house? It is no secret that safe, equitable and enduring ability for kāi Māori to simply practice their Rakatirataka from a decision making perspective has been intergenerationally oppressed out of the halls of power. The perfect example is the Kāi Tahu representation act. Democracy stands to benefit immensely when mandated representation that has been selected from nearly 90,000 tribal members. Canterbury stands to gain everything by having their mana whenua, their treaty partnership at the council table. | Yes. As above. | Yes. I think that I can envision a future where our mataa waka whānau can have a place at the table. The key is to have effective Te Tiriti o Waitangi partnership thriving to make space of leadership from Māori wards |
| Environment Canterbury | South Canterbury/Otuhituhi | Toni Severin | Yes. ACT believes democracy means one person, one vote - no special treatment bases on race, ancestry, gender or sex. | Yes. Every New Zealand should enjoy the some rights and responsibilities, no matter who they are | No. Councils should be accountable to voters, not run by people the public never had the chance to elect. | No. Local democracy only works when decisions are made by the people you elect, not behind closed doors. We will oppose giving unelected groups voting rights on councils or committees. | No. Everyone should have the same vote. Councils should represent areas and communities, not divide people by race. Council’s job is to work for all of us, and in a country with so many cultures, the fairest way is one system where every voice counts equally. |
| Environment Southland | Invercargill-Rakiura Regional Constituency | Joshua Cumberland | Yes. | Yes. | No. | No. | No. |
| Far North District Council | Bay of IslandsñWhangaroa General Ward | Davina Smolders | Yes. ACT believes democracy means one person, one vote – no special treatment based on race, ancestry, gender, or sex. | Yes. Every New Zealander should enjoy the same rights and responsibilities, no matter who they are. | No. Councils should be accountable to voters, not run by people the public never had the chance to elect. | No. Local democracy only works when decisions are made by the people you elect, not behind closed doors. We will oppose giving unelected groups voting rights on councils or committees. | No. Everyone should have the same vote. Councils should represent areas and communities, not divide people by race. Council’s job is to work for all of us, and in a country with so many cultures, the fairest way is one system where every voice counts equally. |
| Far North District Council | Bay of IslandsñWhangaroa General Ward | Jonathan Natusch | Yes. I support one person, one vote. | Yes. | No. Only elected individuals should have voting rights on committees. | No. That would be undemocratic. | . I don't have a particular view on whether Maori wards should exist. If the voters want them, then that's fine. If they don't, then also fine... |
| Gisborne District Council | Tairawhiti General Ward | Grant Brown | Yes. | Yes. | No. | No. Vague question, but generally no | Yes. |
| Gore District Council | Gore Ward | Mel Cupit | Yes. | Yes. | No. | No. | No. |
| Greater Wellington Regional Council | Poneke / Wellington Regional Constituency | Dr Belinda McFadgen | Yes. equality and freedom from discrimination, yes | Yes. I do, I also believe some NZers need support as a minority in this country, particularly the ones who were here first. | Yes. In terms of increasing mana whenua representation, yes | Yes. with mana whenua in certain circumstances, etc | Yes. It would be great if this question was being asked for the last time. |
| Greater Wellington Regional Council | Te Awa Kairangi ki Tai / Lower Hutt Regional Constituency | Matt Shand | Yes. Yes. And also, equitable access. | Yes. | Yes. You cannot make a blanket ruling on this point. It is far too simplistic. | Yes. | Yes. |
| Greater Wellington Regional Council | Te Awa Kairangi ki Tai / Lower Hutt Regional Constituency | Nigel Elder | Yes. ACT believes democracy means one person, one vote – no special treatment based on race, ancestry, gender, or sex. | Yes. Every New Zealander should enjoy the same rights and responsibilities, no matter who they are. | No. Councils should be accountable to voters, not run by people the public never had the chance to elect. | No. Local democracy only works when decisions are made by the people you elect, not behind closed doors. We will oppose giving unelected groups voting rights on councils or committees. | No. Everyone should have the same vote. Councils should represent areas and communities, not divide people by race. Council’s job is to work for all of us, and in a country with so many cultures, the fairest way is one system where every voice counts equally. |
| Greater Wellington Regional Council | Te Awa Kairangi ki Tai / Lower Hutt Regional Constituency | Omar Faruque | Yes. I believe everyone deserve to exercise the equal rights in politics. | Yes. Equal rights for all in wealth distribution irrective of race, religion, and ethnic background. | No. Unelected individuals do not represent the community rather they represent their own financial interest. | No. Unelected parties only represents themselves not the community as a whole. | No. Ethnic wards compromise the sovereign state of the government and lack transparency. Thus only represents the Maori population. |
| Greater Wellington Regional Council | Wairarapa Regional Constituency | Adrienne Staples | Yes. | Yes. | No. | No. On Council, no. Through Treaty settlements, yes. | Yes. They still represent one person, one vote. |
| Hamilton City Council | East General Ward | Preet Dhaliwal | Yes. ACT believes democracy means one person, one vote – no special treatment based on race, ancestry, gender, or sex. | Yes. Every New Zealander should enjoy the same rights and responsibilities, no matter who they are. | No. Councils should be accountable to voters, not run by people the public never had the chance to elect. | No. Local democracy only works when decisions are made by the people you elect, not behind closed doors. We will oppose giving unelected groups voting rights on councils or committees. | No. Everyone should have the same vote. Councils should represent areas and communities, not divide people by race. Council’s job is to work for all of us, and in a country with so many cultures, the fairest way is one system where every voice counts equally. |
| Hamilton City Council | Kirikiriroa Maori Ward | Lawrence Jensen | Yes. whakamanahia te tangata- to lift up, to strengthen peoples mana, even when we disagree | No. Te Tiriti o Waitangi Article 3, Equal British citizenship is still the aspiration for Maaori and all people. The law has a bias. O have spent 40 years working in the Social justice sector e..g FV services, Justice, OT, Police, Court, Corrections, Mental Health, poor housing, homelessness. Statistically it does not fare well for Maaori | No. Unelected members can provide advice ONLY. Public voted for the elected members | No. this has a danger of collusion and budget blowouts. I have been a public servant and seen the abuse of this | Yes. The Maaori Representation Act 1867 was created by Parliament so that the Maaori voice is heard and that the law was not closed to Maaori. The Maaori Ward is an off shoot of this it provides Maaori tangata whenua a seat at the Kirikiriroa table. Being an equal British citizen means that Maaori MUST have a say in local and central polictics. It is a democratic right and is secured by Te Tiriti o Waitangi and it is not based on race based seats. |
| Hamilton City Council | Mayoralty | Roger Stratford | Yes. How can I not? Where is this going? | Yes. That's a given. | Yes. Not as a general rule. | No. Judges should be elected. | No. Publicly, I have to. But they aren't measuring up, with political shenanigans. |
| Hastings District Council | Hastings Havelock North General Ward | Bernard Hickey | Yes. All natural persons are equal and includes gender equality | . | No. | No. Initially no but depends on the matter, situation and thrid party | No. I support equal rights regardless of race, colour or creed. |
| Hastings District Council | Hastings Havelock North General Ward | Debbie Ward | Yes. | No. Lawfully our Human Rights are equal. In reality discrimination happens on a daily people for many people E.G gender enequalities, disabled people and other ethnic minority groups. | Yes. I believe if their is a gap in in skill or epertise for Council to make a decision that impacts on their community. Then appointing an unelected individual who has the required expertise shoul be accommodated. This must be at the discreation of the elected Council members though. | . I am not sure of what the question is that is being asked. Obviously elected Council memebers and the Mayor should hold the majority power. | Yes. If Maori consituants feel better represented through Maori Ward representatives then they should have a fair and equal voice at the table. |
| Hastings District Council | Hastings Havelock North General Ward | Simon Nixon | Yes. Equal Political rights is a fundamental cornerstone of democracy | Yes. Unless everyone has equal rights the incentive to work for a better future both individually and collectively is seriously diminished | No. I have voted against the appointment of unelected individuals at every opportunity over many years including student councillors and Iwi representatives. The only exception has been specialist members of the Risk and Assurance Committee. | No. One person one vote, equal opportunity, no taxation without representation. | No. Maori comprise nearly 30% of the population of Hastings and of course must be represented but In the Hastings District Council a Maori ward has not increased the overall number of councillors identifying as Maori and may even have made it more difficult for some Maori to be elected in the geographic wards. |
| Hastings District Council | Mayoralty | Steve Gibson | Yes. No race based seats. | Yes. | No. I am opposed to unelected 16years olds on yuth councils | No. | No. I reject premise that Maori can't achieve and get elected without special treatment |
| Hastings District Council | Mohaka General Ward | Derek Nowell-Usticke | Yes. | Yes. | No. | No. | No. |
| Horowhenua District Council | Kere Kere General Ward | Nola Fox | No. Equality is not equity - i.e., - we do not have equitable politics in NZ - just a promoted view that equality is about not having maori wards - but that view does not provide equity | No. As per Q1 - we colonised this country with mana whenua understanding consequences or having their beliefs and systems valued and retained - a giant land grab by my ancestors. | No. | No. | Yes. |
| Horowhenua District Council | Levin General Ward | Andre Thompson | Yes. Because supporting equal political rights ensures everyone has the same opportunity to participate in political processes, like voting and representation, without discrimination of any kind. This foundation promotes justice, fairness, and inclusion, making society more equitable and democratic. | No. I believe New Zealand does not demonstrate true equity. Discrimination still occurs, at times undetectable other times shockingly obvious. An example is silencing voices by denying access to democratic chambers via attempting to end Maori wards in Aotearoa New Zealand. | Yes. Because more people contributing to committees allows other perspectives to form what is truely balanced for those respective communities. Narrow vision brings disharmony. Elected only allows for strategic discrimination against minorities. | Yes. In a tiered approach towards conclusions to avoid scenarios of hijacking particular outcomes. | Yes. Why would New Zealand be trying to dismantle and silence one half of our Treaty. To maintain harmony we require both voices - Maori and English. |
| Horowhenua District Council | Levin General Ward | Tony Collis | Yes. | Yes. | No. | No. | Yes. |
| Horowhenua District Council | Waiopehu General Ward | Judy Webby | Yes. Equal rights are what democracy is all about | Yes. That is a fundamental function of democracy | No. Elected members are accountable to the voters, only they should have voting rights at the table | No. See above | No. I believe in a community where everyone is treated equally. If we look at history and the world around us now, dividing communities on ethnic ground often ends badly! |
| Hurunui District Council | South Ward | Steve Hutt | Yes. | Yes. | No. | No. | . |
| Hutt City Council | Central Ward | George MacKay | Yes. | Yes. | No. | Yes. | No. Ive been against the establishment of a Māori ward and made a submission to hcc on it, however I don't want to condemn the new candidate before we have seen any value from the Māori ward and what it actually offers. |
| Hutt City Council | Central Ward | Neelu Jennings | Yes. I support equal political rights. I do not think we do very well in providing this to our diverse community as there are many groups who are unrepresented at the council table due to their disadvantaged status and inaccessibility to the political process (disabled people, multicultural community, seniors). | Yes. Again an ideal but not so much in practice. Based on etnicity, SE status etc/ | No. | No. | Yes. We need representation of Maori at every level of society. Maori wards serve this purpose for local government. |
| Hutt City Council | Council - At Large | Andrew Gavriel | Yes. | Yes. | No. | No. | No. |
| Hutt City Council | Council - At Large | Jonathon Gilbert | Yes. in this day and age, as kiwis we should be beyond political bias. | No. no i do believe some laws are more focused on Māori rights than Kiwi inclusivity. However, i do not see this entirely as a negative as Māori have an advanced invested interest in the protection of our land and are the base of our Kiwi hospitality. | No. dont have an election if you are going to then bypass that process for a select few. | No. again, it negates the process of asking the people if you are then going to allow un-elected 3rd parties to make the decisions. | Yes. Maori deserve the rights to be guaranteed a voice and a vote. |
| Invercargill City Council | Council - At Large | Ian Reeves | Yes. Every New Zealander has the right to express their views. | No. People in New Zealand are often discriminated against because of their race, gender or age. | No. We have a system where people can put themselves forward and then democracy dictates the result . All those voting should have been elected. | Yes. As long as the arrangements are in the best interests of the community, you represent. | No. I support diversity and every person has a right to put their name forward for election. I don't believe in singling out any particular race. |
| Kaikoura District Council | Council - At Large | Melanie Campbell | Yes. Yes I believe everyone in NZ has the right to have their say and participate | Yes. Yes same as above | No. I think it should be left to councillors to Vote rights only | No. No i think keep it in house who has been voted in | No. I believe in equal rights, fairness and equality for all New Zealanders. Note I am Maori also |
| Kaipara District Council | Mayoralty | Jonathan Larsen | Yes. Yes we must all operate under an equal system regardless of ethnicity. | Yes. Wherever racial division has been introduced around the world this has resulted in conflict and undesirable outcomes. | No. No this is undemocratic and the ability to do this needs to be removed from legislation | No. No the people should be represented by those that they elected | No. No I don't support any wards based on ethnicity or part-ethnicity. This is unnecessary and divisive. |
| Kaipara District Council | Otamatea Ward | Roger Billington | Yes. | Yes. | No. | No. | No. |
| Kāpiti Coast District Council | Maori Ward | Jordon Wansbrough | Yes. Yes | Yes. Yes | No. No | No. No | Yes. Tino Rangatiratanga Yes |
| Kāpiti Coast District Council | Mayoralty | Kim Hobson | Yes. | Yes. They should be. One person One Vote . . . . | No. Only elected members have the right to represent the community that elected them | No. Only elected members have the right to represent the community that elected them | . Kapiti has 13.4% Māori. A ward councilor only represents 10% this making Māori underrepresented. |
| Mackenzie District Council | Mayoralty | Ash Jackson | Yes. I believe every New Zealander should have the same political rights and an equal say in how their community is run. Fairness and equal representation are the foundation of democracy | Yes. Yes, I believe all New Zealanders should be equal under the law with the same rights and responsibilities. The rules must apply fairly to everyone, without favouritism or separate treatment. | No. I believe people who make decisions on behalf of the community should be elected by the community. Committees can still include advisors and community voices, but voting rights must sit with those who are directly accountable to ratepayers. | No. I would not support power-sharing with unelected parties. Decision-making must remain with those chosen by the community and directly accountable to them. Unelected groups can and should provide advice, but the final say belongs with elected representatives. | No. I believe in equal representation for everyone. Māori already have a strong voice through existing partnerships with council, and I will continue to build those relationships, but I do not support separate Māori wards. |
| Mackenzie District Council | Mayoralty | Elizabeth McKenzie | Yes. | No. All New Zealanders should be equal under the law, but at present some have an advantage based on ethnicity. | No. As I have learned more about New Zealand history and politics my views on co-governance have changed 180 degrees. | No. | No. People with Maori ethnicity are now over-represented in Parliament, therefore Maori wards are no longer required. |
| Mackenzie District Council | Mayoralty | Robin McCarthy | Yes. | Yes. | No. | No. | No. |
| Manawatu District Council | Feilding General Ward | Aaron McLeod | Yes. ACT believes democracy means one person, one vote – no special treatment based on race, ancestry, gender, or sex | Yes. very New Zealander should enjoy the same rights and responsibilities, no matter who they are | No. Councils should be accountable to voters, not run by people the public never had the chance to elect | No. Local democracy only works when decisions are made by the people you elect, not behind closed doors. We will oppose giving unelected groups voting rights on councils or committees | No. Everyone should have the same vote. Councils should represent areas and communities, not divide people by race. Council’s job is to work for all of us, and in a country with so many cultures, the fairest way is one system where every voice counts equally |
| Marlborough District Council | Blenheim Ward | Aimee Payne | Yes. Democracy only works when everyone has a fair voice. True equity means recognising different needs so everyone can participate fully. | Yes. But equality alone isn’t enough, equity is about ensuring fair outcomes and representation, so the law works for everyone in practice, not just on paper. | Yes. Expertise and representation matter. Committees often benefit from including people with lived experience and knowledge who strengthen decision-making. | Yes. Partnership is part of our democracy. Sharing decision-making helps ensure councils reflect the communities they serve. | Yes. Māori wards ensure tangata whenua are represented at the council table, strengthening democracy and honouring Te Tiriti. |
| Marlborough District Council | Blenheim Ward | Cathie Bell | Yes. | Yes. Equally, the Crown and councils have duties and obligations to residents and ratepayers, and it is important to recognise need and equity. | No. Marlborough's council has for many years now had unelected rural and iwi representatives on council committees. I think it is much more appropriate to have wards for these representatives to be elected instead. | No. I'm not sure what this question is referring to? I would expect council to consult properly with all affected parties and stakeholders in the district on decisions as part of their processes. Do you define that as power-sharing arrangements with unelected parties? | Yes. I think it is much better to have elected representatives. Māori voters have a choice of which roll they are on, so they still only have one vote. |
| Marlborough District Council | Blenheim Ward | Cyril Dawson | Yes. | Yes. | No. | No. | No. ANYONE can run for council |
| Marlborough District Council | Blenheim Ward | Dominique Greenslade | Yes. There should not be anybody difference | Yes. Same rights yes but duties may be different | No. People’s background are important to be able to be trusted & reliable | No. Again honesty & reliability must be considered first. | No. We are ONE People despite our different nationalities & culture . All united for the same purpose to make NEW ZEALAND a great & safe nation! |
| Marlborough District Council | Blenheim Ward | Vish Prasad | Yes. Yes, we live in a democratic nation. | Yes. I see human beings before people and race. I believe we should all co-exist together and look after each other and the environment. | No. No, unelected individuals should not have voting rights on council committees. They can provide valuable advice and share information, but it should remain the elected members’ responsibility to make decisions and vote on matters affecting the community. | No. No, I don’t see a reason to share decision-making power with unelected parties. Elected representatives should retain the authority to make decisions on behalf of the community. | Yes. Yes, I support Māori wards. I respect the Māori culture, their way of life, and their deep connection with the environment and community. I also see the importance of having a dedicated ward to ensure their voice is represented in local decisions. |
| Marlborough District Council | Marlborough Sounds Ward | Malcolm Taylor | Yes. Democracy means one person, one vote – no special treatment based on race, ancestry, gender, or sex. | Yes. Every New Zealander should enjoy the same rights and responsibilities, no matter who they are. | No. Councils should be accountable to voters, not run by people the public never had the chance to elect. | No. Local democracy only works when decisions are made by the people you elect, not behind closed doors. We will oppose giving unelected groups voting rights on councils or committees. | No. Everyone should have the same vote. Councils should represent areas and communities, not divide people by race. Council’s job is to work for all of us, and in a country with so many cultures, the fairest way is one system where every voice counts equally. |
| Marlborough District Council | Wairau-Awatere Ward | Scott Adams | Yes. | Yes. | No. Not on Council or Standing Committees | No. | No. |
| Masterton District Council | Council - At Large | Chris Peterson | Yes. Yes, I do, and my real question to you is - do you. Doesn't appear so from the tenor of your questions below! | Yes. Yes, and having so-called 'unelected' Maori on Council does NOT in my mind compromise this principle. You're interpreting things VERY narrowly - almost myopically. | Yes. Yes, all your questions are so bloody loaded! Yes, I do, and served on a council for some 25 years where it caused NO problem at all! | Yes. Yes, if you are alluding to Maori reps being 'unelected'. It is treaty not a democracy view reinforcing the 'tyranny of the majority'! | Yes. This is not an issues around 'democracy'. It's about honouring a treaty both parties signed in good faith! |
| Masterton District Council | Masterton/Whakaoriori General Ward | Henriette Nagel | Yes. Yes. I support equal political rights. Everyone should have the same ability to participate in democracy, vote, stand for election, and have their voices heard, regardless of gender, ethnicity, background, or beliefs. | Yes. Yes. I believe all New Zealanders are equal under the law, with the same rights and responsibilities, while always respecting and honouring Te Tiriti o Waitangi and the unique place of tangata whenua in Aotearoa. | No. No. I believe that voting rights on council committees should remain with elected representatives, while unelected individuals can provide valuable advice, expertise, and community input without holding decision-making power. | No. No. I believe that decision-making power should remain with elected representatives, while unelected parties can provide advice, expertise, and community perspectives—but not hold formal decision-making authority. | Yes. Yes. I support Māori wards as a way to ensure Māori voices are represented in local decision-making, while respecting and honouring Te Tiriti o Waitangi. |
| Matamata Piako District Council | Matamata Ward | Caleb Ansell | Yes. We are all New Zealanders. | Yes. | No. | No. | No. |
| Napier City Council | Mayoralty | Nigel Simpson | Yes. | Yes. | No. | No. | No. |
| Napier City Council | Napier Central General Ward | Greg 'Grego' Mawson | Yes. | Yes. | No. | No. | . I’ve voted yes both times Māori wards have come before council, but I use the word “support” sparingly. Each time, I’ve raised concerns about participation. including Māori committee members and some elected members simply not turning up. My view is straightforward: if this is what Māori want, then engage — turn up and vote. It doesn’t affect me personally as I’m not Māori, except that some who once voted for me are now on the Māori roll and can’t. I’m very interested in what the referendum will show. Ultimately, anyone who puts their hand up brings value as a person first. That’s what we’ve lost sight of — we’re all humans before anything else. My approach is simple: treat others how I’d want to be treated. |
| Napier City Council | Taradale General Ward | Terry Cornish | Yes. | Yes. | No. | No. | No. |
| Napier City Council | Te Whanga Maori Ward | Kirk kia Maia Leonard | Yes. Of course support equal rights.Those that arrived here first should have a say,otherwise that is not ā democracy, that is dictatorship. | No. From dairy shops to supermarkets,banks and mechanics shops and the list goes on.Most of these kind of people steal from normal citizens on a daily.If you need to know more contact me we can chat. | Yes. Yes and why well mana whenua has a say now and about time. | Yes. Well those unelected can actually come up with great ideas just as well as the elected.True story. | Yes. Yes.Māori is full blooded Māori is that right?.We are French,Irish and Māori decent.There is only half Māori wards let’s get that right and accurate ok. |
| Nelson City Council | Central Ward | David North | Yes. Everyone must have input to the political system | Yes. In line with the obligations of the contract signed by the crown and Maori - Treaty of Waitangi | Yes. In line with the obligations of the contract signed by the crown and maori - Treaty of Waitangi | Yes. In line with the obligations of the contract signed by the crown and Maori - Treaty of Waitangi | Yes. In line with the obligations of the contract signed by the crown and Maori - Treaty of Waitangi |
| Nelson City Council | Central Ward | Lisa Austin | Yes. All New Zealanders are to be treated equally. We are all New Zealanders and deserve the same rights. | Yes. I believe everyone in New Zealand should have equal rights as citizens. Everyone deserves the same chances in life. | No. That is not democracy and we live in a democratic country where everyone has the right to vote for the people they want to make decisions that they think will do the best job for the community as a whole. | No. That is not democratic, citizens should elect their own representatives | . Nelson is to small for Wards, it confuses voters, this could reduce voter turnout. Before 2022 Nelson City Concil's old at-large system let ever voter pick all councillors city-wide, which I believed improved concillor quality. Voters had more choice, this should be reinstated back. |
| Nelson City Council | Central Ward | Mike Ward | Yes. | Yes. We may have equal rights under the law but social and economic inequalities are likely to justify special measures to ensure those rights. | No. But I would expect elected councillors to give due weight to all representations to council. | No. It would depend on what that power sharing involved. The best initiatives are those that have the buy in from the broadest constituency so framing initiatives to accomodate the wider communities aspirations is in all our interests. | Yes. In my six terms on Council Nelson only once elected a Māori councillor. While I would expect all councillors to support Māori aspirations, aside from our Treaty obligations, a Māori Ward guarantees a unique world view from a vibrant and increasingly important part of our community and economy. |
| Nelson City Council | Central Ward | Pete Rainey | Yes. | . | Yes. | . | Yes. |
| Nelson City Council | Central Ward | Tilman Walk | Yes. | Yes. | No. | No. | Yes. This is tricky, as I am ok with separate Māori Voting like NZ Parliament does it in harmony with NZ Tradition and the Treaty of Waitangi. This way, the democratic principle of equal weight to all votes is guarded. Sadly Nelson City Council does not do it in the same way, but has instead set up a gerrymandering Ward system, that does not give equal weight to all votes and hence I would like to see go. |
| Nelson City Council | Council - At Large | Graeme K. Tyree | Yes. Te Tiriti o Waitangi guarantees all citizens of Aotearoa New Zealand equal rights, obligations, and protections under NZ law. | Yes. The introduction of The Principles of the Treaty of Waitangi Bill in 2024 was both unnecessary, racially divisive, and very wasteful of Parliamentary resources. This resulted in the largest hikoi of people ever to meet outside the NEW ZEALAND PARLIAMENT. Refer to my individual Submission made online. | Yes. Please provide examples of allegedly 'unelected individuals' having the voting rights that you object to. It is standard procedure for persons to be occasionally co-opted to temporarily fill certain very specifically defined specialist roles. | . When Te Tiriti o Waitangi was drafted by legal Lords in Great Britain, it was their intention that Tino Rangitiratanga be guaranteed to Maori in New Zealand. However, this was specifically never enacted by successive NZ Parliaments. Co-governance is our default position, and it would be appropriate for Pakeha to say, 'We are truly sorry for 185 years of deliberate cultural and economic oppression and for systematic disempowerment of indigenous peoples'. Reasonable people would then offer appropriate compensation for the various subsequent harms. We are in this together and it is time for reconciliation and healing. | Yes. Having representation from local persons with Maori ancestry is essential in a healthy democracy. In areas such as the East Coast where the population is well over 25% Maori, there have been JUST THREE MAORI ELECTED via the FIRST-PAST-THE POST electoral system in 150 years! Pakeha should ask themselves, 'What, if anything do I lose by having a Maori Ward councilor present at my Council table?' At the very least, costly legal expenses and delays are avoided by having relevant and informed cultural input early in the decision-making process. He aha te mea nui o te ao? He tangata, he tangata, he tangata! Translation from te reo: What is the most important thing in the world? It is the people, the people, the people! Maori Wards offer several tangible benefits to everyone. I am strongly in favour of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion! |
| Nelson City Council | Council - At Large | Jeremy Matthews | Yes. Equal rights are the bedrock of individual freedom and undying democracy. | Yes. Unquestionably yes. There is no serious argument to be had on this matter. | No. Unelected individuals diminish the mana of both the seat they occupy and their occupancy in it. | No. Absolutely not. The "power" we handle belongs to the people. Only they choose who wields it on their behalf. | No. There is no place in a modern, liberal, meritorious Democracy for race-based statute. |
| Nelson City Council | Council - At Large | Keith Palmer | Yes. | Yes. | No. | No. | Yes. |
| Nelson City Council | Council - At Large | Nigel Skeggs | Yes. | Yes. | No. | No. | Yes. |
| Nelson City Council | Mayoralty | Aaron Stallard | Yes. | Yes. | Yes. | Yes. | Yes. |
| Nelson City Council | Stoke-Tahunanui Ward | Dan Robinson | Yes. | Yes. There is some variance from this that I am comfortable with | Yes. This is nothing new and can be very useful to the committee's aims | . It would depend on the nature of the power-sharing arrangements. | No. I hold a nuanced opinion that leans towards no. I don't believe that it is the end of democracy for the wards to exist in their current state. |
| Nelson City Council | Stoke-Tahunanui Ward | Paul Lacy | Yes. | Yes. | Yes. | No. | Yes. |
| Nelson City Council | Stoke-Tahunanui Ward | Sarah Kerby | . | . | . | . | Yes. "I support Māori wards because they strengthen local democracy. Māori wards don’t take away from anyone. They help us make better, more informed decisions that reflect and benefit our whole community." |
| Northland Regional Council | Coastal South General | Robert Goodhue | . I am campaigning to restore my planet. | . I am questing to prevent poisons entering the oceans. | . Poisons have killed almost all the plankton. | . The marine food web has totally collapsed. | . Do you use weedkiller? |
| Otago Regional Council | Dunedin Regional Constituency | Chanel Gardner | Yes. | Yes. | No. | No. | Yes. |
| Otago Regional Council | Dunedin Regional Constituency | Hilary Calvert | Yes. | Yes. | No. | No. | Yes. Only in preference to the current unelected representation |
| Otago Regional Council | Molyneux Regional Constituency | Robbie Byars | Yes. I believe democracy means one person, one vote – no special treatment based on race, ancestry, gender, or sex. | Yes. Every New Zealander should enjoy the same rights and responsibilities, no matter who they are. | No. Councils should be accountable to voters, not run by people the public never had the chance to elect. | No. Local democracy only works when decisions are made by the people elected, not behind closed doors. I will oppose giving unelected groups voting rights on councils or committees. | No. Everyone should have the same vote. Councils should represent areas and communities, not divide people by race. Council’s job is to work for all of us, and in a country with so many cultures, the fairest way is one system where every voice counts equally. |
| Otorohanga District Council | Waipa Ward | Michael Woodward | Yes. | Yes. | No. | No. | No. |
| Palmerston North City Council | Mayoralty | Grant Smith | Yes. | Yes. | Yes. Best practice for Audit or Finance committee, is to have an independent member with CA, Auditor or business experience. Many Councils practice this now. | No. | Yes. It has worked very well in Palmerston North. We have never had conflict here, one of the few areas in the North Island, where Rangitane have been city partners for nearly 160 yrs. And I think that makes us different, with the manakatanga shown by Rangitane to others for decades. The world hasn’t fallen in, Maori ward members are respected, with one being the Dep Mayor and they bring a calm demeanor to the Chamber with a Maori world lens over issues. It’s been a positive experience for our city. |
| Palmerston North City Council | Mayoralty | Michael Morris | Yes. | No. Is obviously untrue. The law is far harder on poor people than rich ones. And Maori are more likely to get pulled up four minor offenses than other races. Animals also have very lityle rights at all under the law. They can be mutilated and killed with impunity | . It really depends. | . I don't know what you mean by this .What arrangements ? | Yes. |
| Palmerston North City Council | Te Hirawanui General Ward | Adrian Phillips | Yes. I believe in equality one person one vote | Yes. Absolutely | No. They must be elected | No. Individuals must be elected to stand in any roles in government | Yes. If proportional representation applies to the number of ward seats and voters must be on one role or the other, candidates must be elected and similarly on that role. |
| Palmerston North City Council | Te Hirawanui General Ward | Hayden Fitzgerald | Yes. | Yes. | No. | No. | No. |
| Palmerston North City Council | Te Hirawanui General Ward | JACK KOH | Yes. Everyone has equal rights and to be respected. | Yes. | No. | No. | Yes. |
| Palmerston North City Council | Te Hirawanui General Ward | Jackie Wheeler | Yes. Yes, because equal political rights ensures fairness, gives everyone a voice in decision-making, and strengthens democracy by representing all people equally. | Yes. Yes, we are all equal. This principle protects fairness and upholds the idea that every individual deserves the same opportunities and responsibilities regardless of their race, beliefs or upbringing. | No. Absolutely not. To represent the people we need to be elected by the people. To be simply placed in a position is not democracy | No. Political power should rest with those chosen democratically by the people | No. All members of a council should be elected fairly. Race should not be a deciding factor that determines ability to participate in Local Government |
| Palmerston North City Council | Te Hirawanui General Ward | Zakk Rokkanno | Yes. I believe everyone has the same rights & no-one should be treated as less than anyone else, unless they compromise the rights of others eg criminal or antisocial behavior | Yes. as for question 1 | No. Only elected individuals should have voting rights | No. Typically no, but if such an arrangement was a genuine benefit to the community then maybe it should be looked at if the unelected individuals approaches were aligned with elected parties direction & plans and that elected parties had the final say in the end. But NO to unelected parties being able to make decisions on their own. | Yes. As long as their approach is fully equal and without entitlement or "Special Privilege" I support Maori Wards but on the basis & expectation that there should also be equivalent proportion based wards for similar proportioned Asian community, the Island community and a ward to represent the remaining multicultural communities so all are represented. |
| Porirua City Council | Onepoto General Ward | Yan zhang | Yes. Yes — I strongly support equal political rights for all people. Every resident deserves a fair voice and the same opportunity to participate in decision-making. In Porirua, this means making sure our local democracy is transparent, inclusive, and accountable, so that no group is left behind | Yes. Yes — I believe equality before the law is a fundamental principle of our democracy. Every New Zealander should have the same rights and responsibilities, regardless of background. At the same time, we must work to ensure that equality on paper translates into fairness and opportunity in practice for all communities. | No. No. I believe that anyone with voting rights on council committees must be elected, regardless of which group or system they represent. True representation of the community requires a clear and fair electoral process, so that those making binding decisions are directly accountable to the public. However, I strongly support advisory participation from iwi and community representatives to ensure their voices are heard and shape the discussion — but the final vote must rest with those who have been elected by the people | No. No. I believe power-sharing arrangements must be based on democratic accountability, where final decision-making rests with those elected by the public. However, I fully support strong partnership with iwi and community groups — their voices and perspectives are essential in shaping council policy. The way forward is genuine collaboration and co-design, while keeping ultimate decision-making accountable to voters | Yes. Yes — I support Māori wards as a way to ensure Māori voices are represented in council decision-making. Representation must always be based on fair and transparent electoral processes, so that those who hold office remain accountable to the people. Māori wards are one pathway to strengthen inclusiveness while still respecting democratic principles. |
| Queenstown Lakes District Council | Arrowtown-Kawarau Ward | "Q" (Samuel) Belk | Yes. Yes, I support equal political rights | Yes. Of Course. All Kiwis are equal under the law. | No. That flies in the face of the definition of democratic principals | No. If they are unelected, why should they be given the same rights as elected parties? | No. I believe all should be represented equally. |
| Queenstown Lakes District Council | Mayoralty | Al Angus | Yes. Yes | Yes. We are all equal under the law although the law does not treat us all equally . | No. Unearned anything has little or no real value to the recipient. | No. Unfortunately this protocol is infecting our govt and councils by stealth after it has been well and truely rejected by the majority of NEW ZEALANDERS. I was one of the few locals that submitted and spoke against the wahi tapuna power grab. | No. No. |
| Queenstown Lakes District Council | Mayoralty | Daniel Shand | Yes. I support Direct democracy in New Zealand | Yes. | No. | No. | Yes. If it was put forward and decided under a public binding referendum . The public should make the decision democratically |
| Queenstown Lakes District Council | Mayoralty | John Glover | Yes. | Yes. | Yes. | No. not applicable in this district | Yes. Would support if wards were requested by Mana Whenua as part of the next representation review |
| Queenstown Lakes District Council | Mayoralty | Nik Kiddle | Yes. | Yes. | No. | No. | No. |
| Queenstown Lakes District Council | Queenstown-Whakatipu Ward | Aaron Cowie | Yes. I support equality for all New Zealanders | Yes. I believe that the law should not discriminate and should be applied equally and hence fairly | No. Unelected positions are there to enact the policies voted on by the elected members. Unelected positions should provide clear information to the elected members and not push their agenda or hide information for their own agenda. | No. As an elected member, I am responsible for the decisions made | No. A ward covers all of the people within the defined area and not any specific ethnic race, sex or religious group. It is for the people to vote and decide on the make up of the members for the defined area that they all live in. |
| Queenstown Lakes District Council | Queenstown-Whakatipu Ward | Gavin Bartlett | Yes. | Yes. | Yes. | Yes. | Yes. |
| Queenstown Lakes District Council | Wanaka-Upper Clutha Ward | Lyal Cocks | Yes. | Yes. | No. | No. | No. |
| Rangitikei District Council | Central Ward | Justin Adams | Yes. We live in a Democracy in which everyone has and deserves the same rights as everyone else. | Yes. Every New Zealand Citizen is equal and has the same rights or duties regardless of lineage or status. | No. Only elected members should have voting rights. | No. Elected members are THE decisions makers at council. No One Else | . I will abide by the results of the Referendum being held. In a perfect world we would not need Māori wards. |
| Rangitikei District Council | Southern Ward | Graeme OFee | Yes. | Yes. | No. | No. | Yes. |
| Rotorua Lakes Council | Mayoralty | Don Paterson | Yes. We are all equal under the law - Freedom from Discrimination (Section 19): Section 19 of the BORA states that everyone has the right to freedom from discrimination on the grounds covered by the Human Rights Act 1993. This protects against unfair treatment based on characteristics like race, gender, or religion. The BORA's commitment to the rule of law implies that everyone, including the government, is subject to the law and that the law is applied equally to all individuals. | Yes. As above. | No. Our Council only has two Committees (outside of the full Council) that have decision making powers - the Infrastructure & Environment Committee and the Community & District Development Committee. These Committees are, in effect, extensions of the full Council and include all Elected Members. There are "Partnership Committees" that have input into the running of our Water Supplies and Gifted Reserves. They do not have decision making powers...only recommendatory. | No. I whole heartedly support collaboration and co-design with our Community. Working together, prior to any final decisions being made by the Elected Members, ensures all options are explored and weighed up, before settling on a solution that meets most objectives. | Yes. In my opinion, I shouldn't have a say in what Maori want. It should be their decision. That's not the situation we are in and I have to make a choice. The Local Government Commission endorsed the model we have now, as fair and effective representation. Removing it without a viable alternative would be a step backward. Retaining it ensures partnership, authenticity, and a Council that reflects the community it serves. However, this is ultimately a decision for the people of Rotorua...a decision that was taken out their hands because of the issues caused by the previous Council. Finally, our Community gets to choose how they are governed and I absolutely support that right to choose. |
| Rotorua Lakes Council | Mayoralty | Robert Lee | Yes. I brought a Judicial Review against our Council in 2022 to oppose the discriminatory Rotorua District Council (Representation Arrangements) Bill. It would have given voters enrolled on the Maori Roll a vote that was worth about 2.5 votes. After getting elected I was successful in persuading a majority of my colleagues to withdraw this Bill from Parliament. | Yes. I believe that all New Zealanders SHOULD BE equal under the law, with the same rights and duties. However, there are various Maori-specific clauses in the Local Government Act, Resource Management Act and other Acts which sometimes makes this difficult. Our Council has entered into a range of 'partnerships' and has established a number of committees that give Maori various privileges which I oppose. I believe these committees, which included appointed individuals, are operating contrary to the purpose of the Local Government Act and are therefore unlawful. The purpose of the LGA is 'to enable democratic, local decision-making and action by, and on behalf of, communities. The appointment of unelected individuals to these committees is undemocratic. | No. I gave evidence to the Ombudsman in 2023 about unelected individuals attending secret Council Workshops, during which decisions were being made. The Ombudsman accepted most of my submissions and published a report critical of our Council's practices: https://www.ombudsman.parliament.nz/resources/meeting-and-workshop-practices-rotorua-lakes-council-2023 I'm pleased to report that our Council now holds workshops in public and unelected individuals may sit in the public gallery, but are otherwise not able to ask questions or otherwise be involved. | No. I abstain from voting on our Council's 'Te Arawa Vision 2050 Committee' which has 4 unelected individuals appointed to it. Here is a link to the most recent meeting: https://youtu.be/NrKyQ6mlESI?t=3703 I also opposed Youth Councillors being appointed to Council committees and was interviewed by Sean Plunkett on The Platform on this topic: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dUg40Dafr_0 Our Council has around a dozen committees that meet in secret, without publishing meeting dates and times in advance, without published Agendas or Minutes. Council staff prepare and present reports to these committees. These committees make decisions concerning the expenditure of ratepayers money or managing ratepayers assets. I find this entirely unacceptable and so I have laid a complaint with the Ombudsman, who is currently, actively investigating this matter. | No. Elected Members must make a public declaration to act in the best interests of the district, regardless of what ward they are elected from. However, the Maori Ward candidates are only democratically accountable to voters enrolled on the Maori Roll. They are therefore incentivised to act in the best interests of the voters who elected them, rather than the district. I also don't think a Maori Ward is in the best interests of Maori. As Rotorua Mayor Tania Tapsell said after the 2022 election: "Being Maori is not a barrier to getting elected... Before we had four Maori councillors around the table, now we only have three. Two previous Maori councillors have unfortunately lost their jobs... So you have to be careful what you wish for when you set these policies - and unfortunately, we haven't seen a good result in Rotorua because of them." |
| Rotorua Lakes Council | Te Ipu Wai Auraki General Ward | Conan O'Brien | Yes. | Yes. | . Too broad a question and poorly worded. For example we have an Audit & Risk Committee with Independent members - are you saying this is wrong? We also have a Te Arawa 2050 Committee which has Te Arawa members voted by their affiliated constituents, to try and find synergies and areas of co-operation to try to help develop Te Arawa's strategic assets, for the benefit of Rotorua. I fully support both these Committees. | No. | No. I do not support any ward system - Rural Wards or Maori. Council elections should be based on democratic principles of highest number of votes. Rural ward is a joke - out of 11 members of Council, they can only vote for the their Mayoral choice, and ONE Councillor- ONE!!!! Despite 11 members making choices about how to spend their rates.. |
| Rotorua Lakes Council | Te Ipu Wai Auraki General Ward | Mariana Morrison | Yes. Yes. I support equal political rights because every person deserves the same voice, representation, and opportunities in decision-making, ensuring fairness, justice, and true democracy for all. | Yes. Yes. All New Zealanders should be equal under the law, sharing the same rights and duties, while also upholding Te Tiriti o Waitangi and recognising tangata whenua status. | Yes. Yes, if their appointment ensures expertise, Māori representation, and Tiriti partnership obligations are upheld strengthening decision-making and ensuring diverse voices are meaningfully included in council processes. | Yes. Yes, if powersharing honours Te Tiriti o Waitangi, strengthens Māori-Council partnership, and ensures fair, accountable governance that benefits communities through shared responsibility and balanced decision-making. | Yes. Yes. I support Māori wards as they uphold Te Tiriti o Waitangi, ensure Māori representation, and strengthen local democracy by giving tangata whenua a direct voice in decision-making. |
| Rotorua Lakes Council | Te Ipu Wai Auraki General Ward | Ryan Gray | Yes. | Yes. | No. Elected members must always have final decision making powers | No. | Yes. I support Māori wards where it has community support. I believe rural wards should be subject to similar standards |
| Ruapehu District Council | Ruapehu General Ward | Gary Griffin-Chappel | Yes. Everyone deserves to have the same rights and protections with the political arena | Yes. Every must have the same rights and duties, ensuring that when rights are violated there are systems in place to address these. | No. Councils should only have those who have been voted onto the table with voting rights. Anyone else at the table are therecsokey in an advisory capacity. | No. The Democratic process of elected members is the only process by which the council should operate. There can be unilateral agreements with other parties through a process at the council table, but all those should be clear and transparent. | Yes. There is a need to ensure effective representation of Maóri at the council table. But where a councillor is elected on the general ward then they must then be seen to be representing the general population whether they are Maóri or not. |
| Ruapehu District Council | Ruapehu General Ward | Rhonda Kingston | Yes. Equal political rights endorse the fundamental human right to live without discrimination & prejudice. | Yes. The Human Rights Act 1993 is a New Zealand Law focused on protecting people from discrimination & prejudice. All individual people are therefore entitled to fairness and justice under the provision of New Zealand Law. | Yes. Council members ultimately bring Council Orders into official being. We need to trust Council members, having nominate them in to their seats, to then be wise & discerning about who they bring in, as unelected individuals, at committee level. | No. Trust and confidence needs to prevail when it comes to local and national governance. The people need to retain the right to elect those they wish to have governance over them, in order to uphold democracy. | Yes. Maori wards ensure Maori are represented, and they help ensure the principles of Tiriti o Waitangi equal partnership with the Crown are fulfilled. |
| Selwyn District Council | Council - At Large | Samantha Samuel | Yes. | Yes. | No. | No. | Yes. |
| Selwyn District Council | Council - At Large | Sharon Hunt | Yes. However i would like more background on this question | Yes. However it does not seem relevant to my proposed role | No. | No. | No. |
| Selwyn District Council | Ka Mania Rolleston Ward | Errol Maffey | Yes. I believe everyone in New Zealand is equal, and should be treated equally. | . A person who has an illness or disability may not meet all criteria to participate in all activities. This should be the only way anyone is excluded. | No. If they were not voted on, and only appointed, there should be no voting rights given, as they do not have a mandate from their supporters. | No. If the party was not voted in, there should not be any power sharing as that is going against the wishes of the voters. | No. At the start of this survey I ticked yes, all new Zealanders should be treated equal. |
| Selwyn District Council | Ka Mania Rolleston Ward | Haydn Porritt | Yes. | Yes. | No. | No. | No. |
| Selwyn District Council | Ka Puna Springs Ward | Till Peters | Yes. I support equal political rights because everyone deserves an equal voice in decisions that affect their lives, ensuring fairness and democracy for all. | Yes. All New Zealanders are equal under the law because our legal system guarantees equal rights and protections for everyone, ensuring fairness, justice, and respect for human dignity. This principle is central to New Zealand's democracy and is upheld by laws like the Human Rights Act 1993 and the Bill of Rights Act 1990. | No. Public trust requires that decision-makers are accountable to voters through elections. | No. I support decisions being made by those directly elected to ensure democratic accountability and transparency. | No. Fair Māori representation can be effectively achieved through other means, such as partnerships with iwi or community boards, rather than separate wards. |
| Selwyn District Council | Ka Puna Springs Ward | Zoran Rakovic | Yes. However, it’s important to recognise that New Zealand’s legislative framework does not always apply this principle uniformly. Parliament has enacted a number of laws that provide for different political arrangements or rights based on factors such as ethnicity, geographic boundaries, or legal status under the Treaty of Waitangi. For example, provisions in the Local Electoral Act, the Electoral Act, and the Resource Management Act create variations in political representation and participation. Whether one agrees or disagrees with these arrangements, the fact remains that they are part of the current legal framework, and as such, must be complied with by all elected officials. My role, if elected to the Selwyn District Council, is to work within the law, while also upholding the values of fairness, transparency, and equal respect for all communities. Where the law creates tension with the principle of equal political rights, I believe we must address such tensions through proper democratic debate and legislative review, not by ignoring the law, nor by enforcing it without reflection. | Yes. At a fundamental level, yes. Our legal system is built on the principle that all New Zealanders are equal before the law. Laws such as the New Zealand Bill of Rights Act 1990 and the Human Rights Act 1993 provide a universal framework that affirms the rights and freedoms of every individual, regardless of background, ethnicity, or belief. However, when we move from the abstract to the individual level, it's clear that people do hold different rights and responsibilities depending on their roles and circumstances. For example, as a husband, a father, and a business owner, I have duties and obligations that are quite different from those of a child, a student, or a retiree. The law recognises these distinctions, and rightly so. So, while equality under the law is a foundational value, it coexists with the reality that legal duties and entitlements can differ based on context, responsibility, and status. That’s not a contradiction, it’s a reflection of a nuanced and responsive legal system. | No. In a democracy, those who have decision-making power, especially voting rights over public funds and policy, should be directly accountable to the public through the ballot box. That said, the Local Government Act 2002 requires councils to provide opportunities for Māori to contribute to decision-making processes. This is a legal obligation which cannot be disregarded. However, consultation and engagement do not require (or justify) granting voting rights to individuals who have not been elected. I fully support meaningful Māori involvement through robust consultation, co-design of policy, and culturally appropriate engagement, as prescribed by the law. But the line must be drawn at voting rights: decision-making power should rest with those chosen by the people. | No. No comment. | . As an elected representative, my duty is to represent the views of my constituents. I do not hold a fixed personal preference on Māori wards. Instead, I will consult openly with the community and vote in accordance with their expressed views. Under the Local Electoral Act 2001, the decision to establish Māori wards rests with each council. It is a local choice, not a national mandate. At the same time, the Local Government Act 2002 makes it clear that councillors are elected to represent the interests of their communities and to act in the best interests of the district as a whole. If elected, I will respect both of these laws: I will listen carefully to the people I represent, engage in good-faith dialogue, and make my decision based on what the community wants, not on personal ideology. That is how local democracy should work. |
| South Waikato District Council | Tokoroa Ward | Frank McIsaac | Yes. Non - separatist | No. Working on getting it back there | No. Open transparency dosen't allow this. | No. Again. Transparency dosen't allow. | No. We're all in 'the same waka' here. Deal with being there for everyone. |
| South Waikato District Council | Tokoroa Ward | Michael Thomas | Yes. | Yes. We are equal but often interpretation of the law creates inequality. | No. They can have their say but in the end the vote should be with the elected. | No. The Elected members represent the community, unelected parties could be for personal/organizational gain not for the community | Yes. If this is a better reflection of the community and this is what the community want. |
| Southland District Council | Mararoa Waimea Ward | Matt Wilson | Yes. But there is inequity in access to the political system | Yes. Though some constitutional law and legislation, does separate some if this in practice. | No. Other than independent chairs of risk/finance committee, or CCO/CO/CTO where knowledge/skills are required | Yes. Only with consultation and transparency. This already happens in public/private partnerships | No. I would support improved representation of Runanga in future local government arrangements |
| Southland District Council | Oreti Ward | Katie Allan | Yes. For New Zealand Citizens only. | No. There are concerning race based laws and regulations already inplace. | No. | No. That would undermine the foundation of democracy. | No. Every New Zealander Citizen has the ability to stand for Council already. Maori Wards are undemocratic, as they create overrepresentation. They are against the idea of one Nation. |
| Southland District Council | Waihopai Toetoe Ward | Phil Scothern | Yes. | Yes. | No. | No. | No. The Treaty of Waitangi provides equal rights in NZ. |
| Tararua District Council | Mayoralty | Michael Spence | Yes. | Yes. | No. | No. Currently hamstrung with new water amalgamation occurring during elections that was government mandated, but besides that I only support elected officials having a mandate | No. I'm part Maori, was on Maori electoral role and switched to regular role, however it's a referendum, my opinion doesn't matter and I'll support whatever the people vote for, as this is how it should have been done in the first place, with a electoral mandate as that is how democracy works. |
| Tararua District Council | North Tararua Ward | Thomas Scott | Yes. Unfortunately though, there is bias at times towards mainstream parties | Yes. Again though, some sections of our community are given bias. | No. The people should have choice of who represents them. | No. All elected persons should be from the people. | Yes. Māori Wards enable a specific group of our community an opportunity to be genuinely heard and be a part of decision making at Council tables. |
| Tararua District Council | North Tararua Ward | TREV MOORE | Yes. I believe each & every voter has the same rights when it comes to voting & having their say. | No. Sadly, in my opinion I feel that if you shout loud enough & kick up a fuss & say that you are being discriminated against, special rights are made to accommodate you. This has to stop. We are all in this together, One rule, One law, for each & every person. We need to stop giving into small groups of people & get rid of this "woke society". | No. What's the point of having a democratic voting system if we then just let anyone come into committee meeting & cast their vote? | Yes. I'd have no problem working alongside anyone, as long as they are made fully aware that the elected members have to sign off on works done on & for the council, & that they have NO voting rights. There are a lot smarter people out there than me, why not work alongside them for the betterment of our region. | Yes. I support Māori wards as they exist, but I personally believe that we should have one rule for everyone. If you want a certain person or party to be elected, you should get out & vote for them. |
| Tasman District Council | Lakes-Murchison Ward | John Gully | Yes. One person, one vote, same for all | Yes. | No. Everyone has an opportunity to stand | No. | No. |
| Tasman District Council | Motueka Ward | Dave Ross | Yes. I believe in a democratic country such as New Zealand there should only be one vote per one person. | Yes. All New Zealanders, irrespective of race, gender, sex or religion should have the same rights and responsibilities. | No. Ratepayers vote and elect the people they want to represent them. That makes the councillors accountable. Unelected individuals cannot be held to account, and so should not have any voting rights. | No. The ratepayer voter democratically elects councillors to make decisions on their behalf. Unelected parties should not have voting rights nor share power as the ratepayer has not empowered them to do so. | No. I believe in equality for all, and therefore would not support a ward based on ethnicity. Representation on Council Wards should be through open, democratic elections. |
| Tasman District Council | Moutere-Waimea Ward | Dean McNamara | Yes. One person one vote | Yes. If they aren't they should be | No. If you want a vote, get yourself elected | No. To be accountable it has to be democratic and public | No. I don't support race, gender, or any other discrimination in the democratic system. |
| Tasman District Council | Moutere-Waimea Ward | Dave Woods | Yes. | Yes. | No. | No. | No. |
| Tasman District Council | Richmond Ward | Daniel Shirley | Yes. I believe democracy means one person, one vote – no special treatment based on race, ancestry, gender, or sex. | Yes. Every New Zealander should enjoy the same rights and responsibilities, no matter who they are. | No. Councils should be accountable to voters, not run by people the public never had the chance to elect. | No. Local democracy only works when decisions are made by the people you elect, not behind closed doors. We will oppose giving unelected groups voting rights on councils or committees. | No. Everyone should have the same vote. Councils should represent areas and communities, not divide people by race. Council’s job is to work for all of us, and in a country with so many cultures, the fairest way is one system where every voice counts equally. |
| Taupo District Council | Mayoralty | John Funnell | Yes. | Yes. | No. | No. | No. |
| Taupo District Council | Taupo Ward | Ann Tweedie | Yes. I would like to see Taupo town kept separate but introduce 4 separate Rural Wards | Yes. All New Zealanders should be on a equal footing, there is too much Racial divide it has to stop. | Yes. It needs to be the RIGHT person is what allows this to work successfully, not just anybody put on a Committee making decision's. | No. Not without full public disclosure and input. | No. I feel they create more division, we need less division, that's why believe 3 Rural Wards like HB would work better here in Taupo. |
| Taupo District Council | Taupo Ward | David Freeman | Yes. We are all equal | Yes. I think that it is obvious despite certain individuals seeking greater control | No. The council represents the entire community. Unelected individuals have their own agenda which is probably not in the best interest of the community as a whole | No. Council is elected to act in the best interest of the community why would they give up that right. | No. We are all one. With Maori Wards why stop there let's have Indian and Chinese and every other ethnic group having wards. Ridiculous |
| Taupo District Council | Taupo Ward | Duncan Campbell | Yes. | Yes. | No. | No. | No. Not until I see some good evidence for better outcomes and democratic representation. |
| Thames Coromandel District Council | Mayoralty | Patrick Kerr | Yes. One person, one vote and equal voter weight | Yes. As above Question 1 | No. As above Question 1 | No. As above Question 1 | No. I have publicly stated I will not vote for the Maori Ward appointment, however I will support the outcome of the popular vote |
| Thames Coromandel District Council | Mayoralty | Steve Hart | Yes. We are all equal | Yes. The law states that | No. Eradicate the vultures and leaches | No. Eradicate the vultures and leaches | No. We are one people |
| Thames Coromandel District Council | Mercury Bay General Ward | Tony Brljevich | Yes. One country one people. | Yes. | No. I support unelected appointees to committees but with speaking rights only and the number of appointees must be no more than two thirds of the elected member. | No. | No. Te Tiriti was intended to bring two peoples together. Continued division by maintain two separate voting systems is counterproductive to that cause. It is disingenuous to Māori to think they are not capable of being elected from the general role. They are very capable. |
| Thames Coromandel District Council | South East General Ward | Neil Evans | Yes. | Yes. | No. | No. | No. |
| Timaru District Council | Timaru Ward | Anah Aikman | Yes. I support equitable rights | No. Do not have equitable rights | No. | No. | . |
| Timaru District Council | Timaru Ward | John Bolt | Yes. We are all the same | Yes. We are all the same | No. We all qualify for the same opportunity | No. Democracy only works when you have equal rights | No. This path can only lead to separatism. We need unity to thrive as a nation |
| Upper Hutt City Council | Council - At Large | Brett Thomson | Yes. One person one vote | No. I believe we should be but there are special rights and funding for some individuals while duties and expectations on some groups are higher than others. There is definitely an imbalance. | No. Being elected gives mandate and authority, and accountability if you do something that your support base do not like. Being unelected gives no mandate or accountability. This will reduce trust and accountability. | Yes. Happy to contract out services but the power lies with those elected and by virtue the voters. | No. I do not support any wards on basis of ethnicity and culture. |
| Upper Hutt City Council | Council - At Large | Michael J Anderson | Yes. Equal rights and equal responsibilities. | Yes. This is essential for a healthy society. | No. Very problematic when it occurs. | No. Power sharing often indicates a breakdown in the electoral process, where the voters dont trust the election's outcome... | No. Screws the scrum. |
| Upper Hutt City Council | Council - At Large | Ramil Adhikari | Yes. I believe in equal political rights for all citizens, as these rights form the foundation of a fair and inclusive democracy. | Yes. Yes, equality before the law is a cornerstone of justice. At the same time, I acknowledge Te Tiriti o Waitangi as a founding document of Aotearoa, which establishes obligations and responsibilities that help us uphold fairness and equity for Māori as tangata whenua. | No. I believe decision-making should remain with elected representatives who are directly accountable to the public. However, I strongly value community voices and believe that unelected representatives can contribute meaningfully in advisory or consultative roles. | No. Formal decision-making powers should rest with those elected by the community. That said, I support strong partnerships and co-design approaches with iwi, hapū, and community groups to ensure governance is more inclusive, equitable, and reflective of all voices. | Yes. Māori wards provide an important mechanism to give effect to Te Tiriti o Waitangi and ensure Māori voices are represented at the decision-making table. They help address historical and ongoing inequities in representation and strengthen the legitimacy of local democracy. |
| Upper Hutt City Council | Council - At Large | Wade Cashmore | Yes. | No. All except incarcerated criminals | No. | No. | Yes. With environmental and social policies currently under attack, I believe Maori voices are important |
| Upper Hutt City Council | Mayoralty | Hellen Swales | Yes. | Yes. | No. | No. | No. |
| Waikato District Council | Awaroa-Maramarua General Ward | Amanda Rutherford | Yes. I strongly support equal political rights, with every person guaranteed the same voice, vote, and representation in council decisions. | Yes. Equality is a fundamental democratic principle that safeguards fairness, ensures accountability, and upholds the integrity of civic participation across society. | No. Expertise and advice are valuable, but decisions must be made by those who are elected and directly accountable to the community. | No. Councillors are chosen by the people, and ratepayers expect their vote to decide who governs. It is still important to gain knowledge and perspective from local iwi, business, and other community experts to strengthen council decisions, but their role should be advisory, as power-sharing with unelected parties risks eroding trust in local government. | Yes. These wards should strengthen representation without undermining the principle of equal political rights if they work alongside general wards, with all councillors ultimately serving the whole community. |
| Waikato District Council | Newcastle-Ngaruawahia General Ward | Ganga Sudhan | Yes. Democracy only works when every person’s voice carries the same weight and when decisions are made on the basis of fairness, transparency, and accountability. Equal rights in local government mean ensuring that everyone in our community regardless of background, heritage, or circumstance, can participate in decision-making processes and feel confident that their views are respected and considered equally. | Yes. All New Zealanders are equal under the law and should enjoy the same rights, protections, and responsibilities. This is a foundational principle of our democracy and justice system. At the same time, equality under the law also means recognising where inequities exist and working to remove them. Upholding this principle involves protecting the rights of all individuals equally while also ensuring that the legal system addresses historic disadvantage in a way that strengthens our shared democratic future. It's not easy but the first step must always be a sincere and genuine desire to do this regardless of the difficulty. | Yes. I support the principle that elected representatives should hold ultimate decision-making authority in council matters. However, I also recognise that appointed individuals with lived experience or specialist expertise can add immense value to council committees, especially when the intent is to improve community outcomes or ensure diverse voices are heard. If unelected individuals are appointed with voting rights, it should be under clear terms of reference, with transparency, accountability, and proportional representation to prevent undue influence or democratic dilution. Public trust in council decisions hinges on fairness, integrity, and clarity of process. | No. I do not support power-sharing arrangements that bypass the principle of electoral accountability. Decisions that impact the broader public should remain in the hands of those directly elected by the community. That said, collaboration with unelected groups including iwi, community organisations, and subject matter experts, can and should occur through structured consultation, partnership forums, and advisory roles. Genuine partnership does not require diminishing democratic authority - it requires intentional dialogue, mutual respect, and robust processes that reflect our shared commitment to better outcomes. | Yes. Yes, I support Māori wards as one important way to strengthen democratic representation and honour our Treaty relationship. Māori wards provide a direct mechanism for Māori voices to be heard within council decision-making, particularly in areas where representation has historically been lacking. This is not about giving unfair advantage - it’s about acknowledging structural imbalances and creating space for tangata whenua to participate in shaping the future of their rohe, alongside all others. It's a step towards a more inclusive and representative local democracy. |
| Waikato District Council | Tamahere-Woodlands General Ward | Peter Mayall | Yes. As an Act Local candidate I believe democracy means one person, one vote - no special treatment based on race, ancestry, gender, or sex. | Yes. Every New Zealander should enjoy the same rights and responsibilities, no matter who they are. | No. Councils must be accountable to voters, not run by people the public never had the chance to elect. If Councils are going against the wish of the people you have to be able to make a change with your vote - you can never get rid of un-elected individuals. | No. Local democracy only works when decisions are made by the people you elect, not behind closed doors. I oppose giving unelected groups voting rights on councils or committees. | No. Everyone should have the same vote. Councils should represent areas and communities, not divide people by race. Council’s job is to work for all of us, and in a country with so many cultures, the fairest way is one system where every voice counts equally. |
| Waikato District Council | Whaingaroa General Ward | Nicola Laboyrie | Yes. One person, one vote. | Yes. | No. If there are unelected individuals with voting rights, their voting preference must be made transparent to the community. | Yes. If there is a private entity providing funds to support a community project. Otherwise no. | No. This is low hanging fruit, many of the Maori candidates are genuine but the real problem of lack of trust and engagement is not just restricted to Maori. Consider the anti-mandate people that were shunned by society, there is work to be done to regain their trust. |
| Waikato Regional Council | Hamilton | Henry Penny | Yes. Yes, equal political rights are one pillar of a well functioning democracy. | Yes. I believe all New Zealanders *should* be equal under the law, and this principle should always guide how laws and policies are designed. | No. If you want to change policies, laws, or spend public money, you should stand for election. | No. In general no. With certain natural resources there are treaty (legal) obligations for councils to work with Iwi. Whatever our personal views, councils must follow the law. | Yes. Mixed feelings. I support Māori wards as a way to address ongoing under-representation, and they are consistent with one person, one vote. However, if Māori representation reaches parity through general wards and electorates, the ongoing need for separate wards may be less clear. At that point, some may see them as undermining the perceived legitimacy of Māori councillors elected via Māori wards. |
| Waikato Regional Council | Hamilton | Pam Chiles | Yes. It is the underpinning of a democratically elected civil society. | Yes. This has been the mainstay of democracies ever since they became the predominant form of government globally. | No. Although specialists may be consulted for their expertise, it is only elected officials that should have voting rights. | No. It is the transparency and accountability of elected officials along with the democratic process that prevents our country from becoming governed by a bureaucracy. | No. In the past Maori have been seen as marginalised and Maori wards were created as a remedy. I feel this is no longer the case. There should be a referendum on Maori wards. |
| Waikato Regional Council | Taupo-Rotorua | Mich'eal Downard | Yes. | Yes. | No. | No. | No. |
| Waikato Regional Council | Waihou | Julie Taylor | Yes. | Yes. | No. Whilst it may be important to consult experts to gain further understanding of an issue, they shouldn't be given voting rights because they do not have the mandate of voters. | No. As above, without community mandate, I would not support power-sharing. | Yes. |
| Waikato Regional Council | Waihou | Lindsay Windsor Algra | Yes. As a member of the National Party one of the values i resonate the most with is, equal citizenship and equal opportunity. I don't think it matters your job title, your position, or who you are, everyone has something to offer and should be given that chance. | No. Depending on our jobs, we all have different duties, likewise depending on our wealth we have difference access to justice, we are most certainly not equal under the law. While i disagree with this fact, that is the reality we live in. | No. As a council candidate, the fundamental principle of getting elected is been able to stand on decisions made. I think anyone that wants these sort of unelected appointments don't want to take any responsibility. | No. Again i think there is an issue with people wanting power, control, but refuse to take any personal responsibility for the outcomes. | No. I am a 7th generation settler, the Wood family settled in the Hutt Valley, my own family line extends past me to 8 generations, soon to be 9. Do we get settler wards? Of course not, this is nothing but a form of racism. If Maori want a set, come compete in the elections like everyone else. |
| Waikato Regional Council | Waikato | Gary McGuire | Yes. I believe that all citizens of NewZealand have equal democratic rights, | Yes. "One Nation With One Law For All". | No. Voting rites are for the elected representatives only. | No. This issue has been tested recently with the suggestion that the "Co- Management Committees" at Regional Council, be renamed "Co-Governance Committees". There is a vast difference between the two. I do not support this. | No. I do not support Maori wards because I do not believe in race-based politics. I believe that Maori, like all NewZealanders, are already well represented on the basis of their talents & abilities. my commitment is to support all people equally - one nation, under one law for all. My position is guided by a concern for protecting racial harmony in our country and ensuring unity rather than division. |
| Waikato Regional Council | Waikato | Noel Smith | Yes. Absolutely | Yes. | No. Any unelected person is not accountable to the community! | No. see 3 above | . |
| Waikato Regional Council | Waikato | Rhys CRAIG | Yes. | Yes. Only Maori/Pakeha have fundamental rights determined by treaty | No. | No. | Yes. |
| Waikato Regional Council | Waipa-King Country | Garry Reymer | Yes. | Yes. | No. | No. | No. Wards based on geographics lines can have a place but on ethnic, religious or race has got to be wrong |
| Waimakariri District Council | Kaiapoi-Woodend Ward | Brent Cairns | Yes. Equal political rights are the fundamental rights and opportunities for all individuals to participate in the political processes of their country without discrimination, ensuring that every citizen has an equal voice and influence in public decision-making. These rights include the ability to vote, be elected to office, hold public service, and freely express political opinions, all guaranteed through legal frameworks and human rights declarations like the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights | Yes. | No. It will depend on what rules apply ie Standing Orders, I note the following from Greater Wellington Regional Council Policy on the appointment of non-elected members to committees and subcommittees Where the purpose of the appointment is to have a member who represents the views of the wider regional community, a specific regional community or who is appointed to provide an independent view, a public advertisement should be published, advising that non-elected members are being sought. | No. Council decision making is influenced by unelected parties. ie community groups and such, through deputations and lobbying... however that's where it ends... | No. The Waimakariri District Council have a good, engaging relationship with Mana Whenua... the population doesn't support having Maori wards |
| Waimakariri District Council | Kaiapoi-Woodend Ward | Dr Prudence Stone | Yes. I am faithful to the United Nations' Universal Declaration of Human Rights that "all human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights." I would only correct Article one of this declaration where it references brotherhood but not sisterhood. I know it's pedantic, but I think the declaration would be more meaningful if it said we all "should act towards one another in a spirit of sisterhood" because women's political activism is consistently non-violent while this is not reflected in many political acts of our brothers. | Yes. I am particularly concerned for children, young people, our rainbow community and Whaikaha (disabled) New Zealanders, not simply their legal rights but their knowledge about their legal rights when facing our justice system. These communities are particularly vulnerable to discrimination or simply overlooked by our decision makers and representatives of authority. As a result their rights to justice and fair treatment are sometimes not as vigilantly protected as the general population. This point takes vigilance, visibility and championship inside our institutions which is what I intend to bring as a Councillor if elected in North Canterbury. | Yes. In a place like North Canterbury, you see nothing but a sea of Pakeha candidates over 55. As a 52 year old Pakeha candidate I myself don't bring much diversity (although I am part of the Rainbow community). If we don't proactively seek out the views of tangata whenua from their Mana Whenua, or the views of children and young people from an aspiring youth leader, or the perspective of whaikaha (disabled) citizens, the councillors elected in our District risk making uninformed and poor decisions for these members of our community, and so risk breaching their human rights. Indeed, making decisions about children and young people without adequate youth voice is itself a breach of Article 12 of the United National Convention on the Rights of the Child. Similarly, I am faithful to the Disabled Persons' Assembly mantra "nothing about us, without us". Finally, also similarly, I am an ally to Te Tiriti o Waitangi and so as a Councillor I would commit to adhering to the Articles of this founding document of NZ. | Yes. I am proud to represent a settlement trust in North Canterbury, Te Kohaka o Tūhaitara Trust, which makes a great example of an excellent power-sharing arrangement with local iwi. There are many others across the country. The wonderful thing about these relationships is that the fiscal and human resource costs can be shared. \ I find this question poorly framed in terms of "power"-sharing. Without the sharing of responsibilities, costs and decision-making across all stakeholders of any issue, we create power imbalance. In a democracy, particularly where there are conflicts of interest among stakeholders, it's essential that Council sees itself a mediator, not a power-monger, to bring about the best outcome for all. | Yes. I support any solution to Article 2 within Te Tiriti o Waitangi, which obliges us to find a way for Mana Whenua to monitor and protect what remains in the possession of Māori, and develop it. Article 3 within Te Tiriti will have greater chance of being fulfilled too, when Councils everywhere have a Māori Ward to support and inform them of what tangata, tikanga and taonga need celebrating in our midst. If a Council is overrun with Pakeha we lose these opportunities to integrate and learn the rich culture and long history of this place we share. |
| Waimakariri District Council | Kaiapoi-Woodend Ward | Nathan Atkins | Yes. ACT believes democracy means one person, one vote – no special treatment based on race, ancestry, gender, or sex. | Yes. Every New Zealander should enjoy the same rights and responsibilities, no matter who they are. | No. Councils should be accountable to voters, not run by people the public never had the chance to elect. | No. Local democracy only works when decisions are made by the people you elect, not behind closed doors. We will oppose giving unelected groups voting rights on councils or committees. | No. Everyone should have the same vote. Councils should represent areas and communities, not divide people by race. Council’s job is to work for all of us, and in a country with so many cultures, the fairest way is one system where every voice counts equally. |
| Waimakariri District Council | Mayoralty | Paul williams | Yes. | Yes. | No. | No. | No. |
| Waimakariri District Council | Rangiora-Ashley Ward | Wayne | Yes. | Yes. | No. | No. | No. |
| Waimate District Council | Waimate Ward | Brent Percy | Yes. All New Zealand citizens should have this right. | Yes. To move forward as a country this must be a fundamental right for all citizens. | No. Unelected individuals have no place in a democratic society. | No. This would be no different to the appointment of unelected individuals. | No. There is enough proof to show that all people of New Zealand can and have been democratically elected should they chose to stand in general wards. |
| Waipa District Council | Cambridge Ward | Don Sanders | Yes. | Yes. | No. | No. | No. |
| Waipa District Council | Te Awamutu & Kihikihi Ward | Lou Brown | Yes. \One person one vote .. | . | No. Unelected members should only be in an advisory role | No. Governance oversight must always be with elected members | Yes. Support elected not appointed candidates from the Maori local body elections |
| Waipa District Council | Te Awamutu & Kihikihi Ward | Shane Walsh | Yes. | Yes. | No. | No. | Yes. |
| Wairoa District Council | General Ward | John Malis | Yes. In New Zealand, every citizen has the right to stand for local office, including here in Wairoa. By putting my name forward for the General Ward 2025 election, I’m exercising a basic political right: the right to represent, to be heard, and to be chosen by the people. For our community, this means democracy is alive and working. It’s not just about ticking a box once every three years – it’s about having real choice. Candidates bring different experiences, ideas, and values to the table, and voters get to decide who they trust to guide Wairoa’s future. Democracy thrives when ordinary people step up, when voices from all backgrounds are included, and when ratepayers know their votes truly shape local decisions. My candidacy is part of keeping that promise alive in Wairoa. | Yes. I believe that all New Zealanders are equal under the law, with the same rights and duties. That’s the foundation of our democracy – fairness, accountability, and opportunity for everyone, no matter where they come from. As a Cambodian-Kiwi who has built a life here in Wairoa, I know the value of that principle deeply. My own journey – from far-far away humble roots to becoming a scholar and a business leader – has taught me that equality is not just a legal phrase, but a lived experience we must keep protecting and improving. I have committed myself to lifelong learning, including study with the School of Government, New Zealand, to better understand how policies shape communities and how strong leadership can make a real difference. By standing for Wairoa General Ward 2025, I want to honour those principles: equality before the law, democracy that truly serves the people, and leadership that listens, learns, and acts with integrity. | No. Democracy means your vote matters. If I’m elected, I will oppose giving unelected individuals binding voting rights on council committees. Voices from the community should always be welcomed, but only those you elect should carry the power of your vote. | No. Democracy must stay strong, but it also has to listen when the case for partnership is genuine. | Yes. I support a Māori Ward because it strengthens our democracy by making sure the voices of mana whenua are represented at the decision-making table. Wairoa has one of the highest proportions of Māori population in the country, and it’s only fair that council structures reflect that reality. This isn’t about special treatment — it’s about fair representation and partnership. Māori Wards help ensure decisions about land, water, culture, and community wellbeing are made with those who hold deep, generational knowledge of Wairoa. That benefits everyone in the district, because stronger inclusion leads to better, more sustainable outcomes for the whole community. Supporting a Māori Ward is about recognising history, upholding the Treaty partnership, and building a council that truly reflects who we are in Wairoa. |
| Wairoa District Council | Wairoa Ward | Rodney Field | Yes. One country, one people | Yes. One country, one people | No. you should be elected on your merits and it stops people gaining access that shouldnt be in there | No. no outside influence | No. Im a maori and I dont agree |
| Waitaki District Council | Corriedale Ward | Sven Thelning | Yes. | Yes. | Yes. Only one per committee and only where expertise is needed that hasn't been elected, and only where the committee is only making recommendations to council for decisions. | No. Decisions are only for elected members. | No. Waitaki doesn't have enough population to preserve equality of suffrage if Maori wards were introduced. |
| Waitaki District Council | Oamaru Ward | Jim Hopkins | Yes. As do many others, including the United Nations, the authors of the US Constitution and Martin Luther King. | Yes. The painful but inescapable lesson of history is that societies which discriminate for any reason in favour of or against particular groups of people either by way of preference or persecution are societies where intolerance and injustice are greater and outcomes are uglier. The tensions created by such discrimination also diminish harmony and can trigger revolution or social collapse. | Yes. But only to a very limited degree. For example, most Councils have a Finance, Audit and Risk Committee and the Auditor General has advocated that qualified unelected individuals with financial or economic analysis experience should be appointed to those Committees to enhance their skill set. Such appointees could have voting rights or not, as individual Councils decide. Equally, it may be appropriate to appoint someone with Resource Management expertise to a Council body when District or City Plans are being produced or reviewed. But such appointees should be carefully monitored and kept to a necessary minimum. | No. The key thing about elections is that they allow the community to reward or punish the people who offer to serve in a governing role. You can get a tick or the flick, depending on how people feel about the decisions you've made and the effect they've had. So there is a clear link between the voters and those who are voted for. That link doesn't exist if there's power-sharing with unelected parties, who aren't answerable to electors but can still influence or even determine outcomes. Democracy has many faults and recently has been called by some critics "the tyranny of the majority". Trouble is, power-sharing with unelected parties is the tyranny of the minority and for that reason alone, is undesirable. | No. Kai Tahu representatives have told us they do not support Maori Wards either. As tangata whenua and the Crown's partners with their status in the South Island reflected in the Treaty Settlement Act, any representation on Council should be, in their view, be available to Kai Tahu only and local iwi have signalled they prefer current arrangements to the establishment of a Ward. In addition to all the wider issues and controversies related to the establishment of such Wards, were we to consider establishing a Maori Ward, it would be a move that would be met with opposition from Kai Tahu, for the reasons explained above. |
| Waitaki District Council | Oamaru Ward | Nathan Barnes | Yes. | Yes. That's the law as I know it to be. | No. The power must be with the elected by the people. | No. Absolutely not. | No. It's undemocratic. |
| Waitaki District Council | Oamaru Ward | Peter de Reus | Yes. | Yes. Yes but there is confusion about this or we would not have this push for co-governance and differing education standards as practiced at this time. | No. | No. | No. We are all New Zeanders and we all have different ethnic backgrounds. Mine is 100% from the Netherlands |
| Wellington City Council | Mayoralty | Josh Harford | No. I believe only Silly Hat Party supporters deserve political rights. I also believe in universal animal suffrage. | No. Silly Hat supporters exist on a higher plane of being. | Yes. It is crucial that we erode democracy as much as possible to maintain the status quo and prevent progress | No. It is critical that everyone comes to power through sham elections. | Yes. I can't satirise this one. I fully and completely support Māori wards. |
| Wellington City Council | Mayoralty | Karl Tiefenbacher | Yes. | Yes. | No. | No. | Yes. As this is an elected position I have no issue in guaranteeing Maori representation on council |
| Wellington City Council | Mayoralty | Rob Goulden | Yes. According to our Current Electoral Law and the Bill of Rights Act 1990. | Yes. Yes I do | No. | No. Please clarify the question. The general rule not elected / no vote rights. I do support the concept of a Coalition in Council. Party ideology has no place in local government politics. | Yes. I believe Maori under the Treaty of Waitangi should be represented at the Council table. |
| Wellington City Council | Motukairangi/Eastern Ward | Thomas Morgan for Wellington's Eastern Ward | Yes. The disabled should be provided with extra support for election campaigns. | Yes. There is the question of rights adjustments as a form of punishment- e.g. imprisonment! | No. This breaches a fundamental tenant of democracy- do we just hire representation outright? | Yes. Only at a management level as with commercial arrangements to action policies. | Yes. Only in that it follows the convention of Parliament as my reasoning. |
| Wellington City Council | Pukehinau/Lambton Ward | Rodney Barber | Yes. This ensures that every person has dignity, a fair voice in governance, protection from exclusion, and freedom from oppression through shared responsibility and accountability. | Yes. Regardless of background all should stand equal before the law, with both rights (participation, protection, justice) and duties (responsibility, contribution, accountability). | . Appointing unelected individuals with voting rights to council committees can be appropriate if it ensures wise leadership, fair representation, and justice but it risks undermining accountability, transparency, or equal participation. | . Power-sharing can be right when it promotes justice, fairness, and representation, but wrong when it undermines accountability or transparency. | No. I am unsure and undecided, I need to hear the views of the community and represent those views. A friend of mine is a respected Māori chief. He passed on to me what his iwi’s journey from the 13th century. It deeply affected me. I believe the relationship with Māori, and other ethnicities requires more than a Ward seat. Over the past 5 years I have been leading a grass roots movement in Newlands. The annual community surveys for the past 5 years show that while residents have a very high sense of belonging in New Zealand, they only moderately share their culture and seldom engage in cultural activities. To have vibrant cultures we need to: • build respect and understanding with storytelling to showcase cultures with music, dance, food, and customs. • have open conversations where people from different backgrounds can share stories, beliefs, and values; address misunderstandings; and build community to speak into decision making. • work together to build unity through action on joint projects. My aspiration is for a city where people find fulfilment in community relationships, understand their role within society, and are free to help others. Where there is healthy competition and sustainable cooperation, and the focus is on community wellbeing rather than simply material wealth. |
| Wellington City Council | Takapū/Northern Ward | Andrea Compton | Yes. | Yes. | No. The public have voted for the people they want to represent them. | No. Unelected people or groups should provide advice and support, however the public have not elected them to make decisions on their behalf. | Yes. Everyone deserves a vote. The issue is around representation. If some ward have one councillor for every 15,000 residents, but another ward has one for 5,000 residents, that is not fair representation. |
| Wellington City Council | Takapū/Northern Ward | Mark Flynn | Yes. Democracy means one person, one vote – no special treatment based on race, ancestry, gender, or sex | Yes. Every New Zealander should enjoy the same rights and responsibilities, no matter who they are. | No. Councils should be accountable to voters, not run by people the public never had the chance to elect. | No. Local democracy only works when decisions are made by the people you elect, not behind closed doors. We will oppose giving unelected groups voting rights on councils or committees. | No. Everyone should have the same vote. Councils should represent areas and communities, not divide people by race. Council’s job is to work for all of us, and in a country with so many cultures, the fairest way is one system where every voice counts equally. |
| Wellington City Council | Wharangi/Onslow-Western Ward | Ray Bowden | Yes. ACT believes democracy means one person, one vote – no special treatment based on race, ancestry, gender, or sex. | Yes. Every New Zealander should enjoy the same rights and responsibilities, no matter who they are. | No. Councils should be accountable to voters, not run by people the public never had the chance to elect. | No. Local democracy only works when decisions are made by the people you elect, not behind closed doors. We will oppose giving unelected groups voting rights on councils or committees. | No. Everyone should have the same vote. Councils should represent areas and communities, not divide people by race. Council’s job is to work for all of us, and in a country with so many cultures, the fairest way is one system where every voice counts equally. |
| Western Bay of Plenty District Council | Katikati-Waihi Beach Ward | Candice Thomas | Yes. | Yes. | No. | Yes. | Yes. |
| Western Bay of Plenty District Council | Mayoralty | Margaret Murray-Benge | Yes. I am equal to anyone around the council table and they are equal to me. I treat everyone as my equal in the community as well. | Yes. Equal rights with responsibilities. In this democracy it is fundamental that before the law we all have the same rights. It breeds division if people are treated differently. | No. Definitely not. | No. Rates are not a piggy bank or a slush fund. | No. I cannot vote for a system that divides people on race. |
| Westland District Council | Hokitika Ward | Flow In | Yes. | Yes. | No. | No. | No. |
| Westland District Council | Northern Ward | Greg Maitland | Yes. Totally A democracy is not a democracy if we don't have equal rights | No. Many NZ Commission of enquires have shown bias. Also much of our legal system favours those that can afford litigation | No. Unelected officials with voting rights is not democratic | No. | No. We don't have Maori wards in the Westland District Council . The two Iwi reps didn't want voting rights . However One rep in particular has a lot of commonsense and I feel has a lot of regard for All who live here on the Westcoast regardless of culture. |
| Whanganui District Council | Mayoralty | Andrew Tripe | Yes. | Yes. | Yes. yes where required such as risk and commercial | No. | No. |
| Whanganui District Council | Mayoralty | Josh Chandulal-Mackay | Yes. Yes, and I support equity and affirmative action as a pathway to achieving true equality | Yes. Yes, there is nothing to suggest that we are anything other than equal under the law with the same rights and duties | Yes. Yes. We have an independent chair of our Risk & Assurance Committee and CCO & Economic Development Committee. These are good appointments that add value, and should be retained | Yes. Yes. We already do that through delegating functions away from council and to the chief executive. This question requires more context to be answered properly and has the potential to be misleading. | Yes. Yes I do |
| Whanganui District Council | Mayoralty | Peter Oskam | Yes. Equal plus equitable | . Equal plus equitable | Yes. On commitees that can only make recommendations not decisions | No. As above | Yes. Will it cause harm? No. Its not perfect but is better than the status quo. |
| Whanganui District Council | Whanganui General Ward | Jason Bardell | Yes. Everyone should be treated equally | Yes. Having different rights creates division | Yes. Democracy comes first so everyone gets the same chance | Yes. Democracy comes first | No. Having different voting rights creates division, we all need to work as one for the best solutions |
| Whanganui District Council | Whanganui General Ward | Julian Emmett | Yes. All political viewpoints need to be heard | Yes. Though I do believe some sectors are not treated equal under the law. | Yes. They could have knowledge/skills required by Council. | Yes. If the voting public is agreeable to such arrangements. | No. Representatives should be elected on merit |
| Whanganui District Council | Whanganui General Ward | Michael Organ | Yes. I oppose race based representation. | Yes. Again, no race based governance. | No. It is undemocratic. | No. They are undemocratic. | No. They are undemocratic and divisive. |
| Whanganui District Council | Whanganui General Ward | Philippa Baker-Hogan | Yes. | Yes. | No. | No. | Yes. |
| Whanganui District Council | Whanganui General Ward | Robin Westley | Yes. | Yes. | No. However there may be exemption in some cases if it was in the best interest of the community. | No. | Yes. 26% of the Whanganui population is Màori yet they have no representation on Council. |
| Whanganui District Council | Whanganui General Ward | Scott Phillips | Yes. Yes I support equal political rights | Yes. Yes I believe all New Zealanders are equal under the law, with the same rights and duties | No. No I do not support the appointment of unelected individuals with voting rights to council committees | No. No I don't support power-sharing arrangements with unelected parties | Yes. Yes I support Maori wards. Without Maori wards the councils refer to local Iwi to fulfill their treaty consultation requirements. Local Iwi are not necessarily elected, and also only by local Iwi. Elected Maori ward candidates means they represent Maori living in the area, not just local Iwi, the two are not the same. Council is required to consider the treaty in many decisions, being able to "tick that off" with the Maori ward councilors already sitting at the same table actually reduces time and consultation costs. Because the total number of councilors remains the same, there is no cost there. Actually in Whanganui, the population is close to 30% Maori, so 2/12 councilors is actually still under represented. |
| Whanganui District Council | Whanganui General Ward | Tracey Jarman | Yes. | Yes. | No. | No. | No. |
| Whanganui District Council | Whanganui Maori Ward | Hayden Potaka | Yes. I believe in equal political rights and this includes recognising that achieving equality sometimes means addressing historical and systemic inequities. In Aotearoa, this means upholding Te Tiriti o Waitangi, which guarantees tino rangatiratanga for hapū alongside kāwanatanga. True democracy recognises both individual and collective rights, including indigenous rights as essential to a fair and just society. | Yes. Yes — but the law must also acknowledge that we do not all start from the same place. Equity is not about treating everyone identically, but about ensuring the same opportunity and access to justice and wellbeing. Upholding Te Tiriti o Waitangi means recognising Māori as tangata whenua with distinct rights under both international and domestic law, including rights to self-determination and co-governance in matters affecting our people and whenua. | Yes. Yes, in certain circumstances — especially where it enables meaningful participation by mana whenua. Local government must honour partnership obligations under Te Tiriti o Waitangi, and this sometimes requires appointing tangata whenua representatives to ensure their voice is heard in governance and decision-making. These representatives bring whakapapa, expertise, and accountability to their communities, even if not elected through general roll processes. | Yes. Yes — particularly where these arrangements honour Te Tiriti o Waitangi and ensure Māori participation in decisions that affect Māori communities. Power-sharing is not a threat to democracy; it enhances it by recognising our shared histories and dual obligations. This approach is consistent with New Zealand’s human rights commitments and international best practice for indigenous rights and co-governance. | Yes. Absolutely. I am proudly standing for the Māori Ward in Whanganui because it ensures our whānau, hapū, and iwi have a voice at the council table — a voice that has too often been missing. Māori wards are a tangible way to uphold Te Tiriti o Waitangi, address underrepresentation, and build a more inclusive, representative, and effective democracy. Far from dividing us, they strengthen local government by bringing more voices into the room. |