Photo: Political lobbying - tikanga style

Manawatū District Council chambers 20 May 2021 – how to turn a No to Māori wards vote to a Yes

In a flurry of activity leading up to the final date to amend governance arrangements for the 2022 local body election, thirty-five councils have opted to establish Māori seats, some making an abrupt about-turn at the last minute after intense lobbying from iwi.