The Amendment Bill restores Parliament’s original intent behind the 2011 MACA Act. It responds to recent court rulings (notably the Whakatōhea/Edwards decisions) that lowered the threshold for Customary Marine Title (CMT), allowing more claims than intended. The legislation aims to provide clarity and certainty for claims. Continue reading

The Gene Technology Bill, due for its second reading, is sparking significant public concern. Despite 15,000 submissions—with 97% opposing the Bill—the Select Committee has recommended it proceed, with only minor amendments. Continue reading

See more posted on the Democracy Action Facebook page Oxford Union Debate Foreign Minister Winston Peters recently delivered a speech in the Oxford Union Debate, arguing that the courts are undermining democracy. READ MORE Continue reading

The Hauraki Gulf/Tīkapa Moana Marine Protection Bill has passed its third reading. This legislation provides for new conservation areas—but exemptions for Māori customary fishing and commercial ring-netting weaken the promised protection. Continue reading

See more posted on the Democracy Action Facebook page NZCPR NEWSLETTER: DR MURIEL NEWMAN - REINSTATING DEMOCRACY Dr Muriel Newman warns that the tribal sovereignty movement has embedded the framework for a separatist nation-state deep within government institutions. "If democracy in New Zealand is to endure, these race-based structures must be dismantled by the Coalition. READ MORE Continue reading

The Labour Government’s divisive legacy continues to influence government policy today. During her reign as Local Government Minister, Nanaia Mahuta — elected by the Māori electorate — introduced policies that were explicitly aimed at benefitting her constituency. One of these is reflected in the proposed introduction of a standardised code of conduct for elected members of council, which includes significantly expanded Treaty obligations. Another is the intention to empower the Secretary for Local Government (an unelected public servant) to issue a standardised code of conduct which would be binding on all councils. Continue reading

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. Continue reading

Local government should be accountable to the people. Yet across the country, councils are giving unelected appointees voting rights - the same as elected councillors - on committees that determine policy and how our rates are spent. Continue reading

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Candidate nominations for this year’s local body elections have now closed, and campaigning is ramping up. This is the perfect time to ask candidates the important questions — before we vote, we need to know where they stand on key issues. Continue reading