Have your say on Māori Wards during this year’s election

Published on August 04, 2025

Voting in the Local Government Election is an important opportunity to have your say on the future of the district and this year it’s about more than the elected member positions.

While voting for your preferred Mayor, Councillors, and community board members, you will also be asked to have your say in a binding poll on the future of Māori Wards.

The Horowhenua Māori Ward was established after community engagement in 2021. At a Council meeting in September 2024, Horowhenua District Council voted to retain the ward.

Due to a law change last year, councils with Māori wards not established by a poll of voters are required to either dissolve them or hold a binding poll about their future. Having voted not to dissolve the Horowhenua Māori Ward a referendum is being held alongside the 2025 Local Election.

Horowhenua District Council chief executive Monique Davidson says everyone has a right and responsibility to vote in the election and that is just as applicable to the Māori Ward referendum.

“This year’s election will decide who sits at the decision-making table for the next three years, and the Māori Ward referendum is an important part of that,” she says.

“Whether you are for or against Horowhenua having a Māori Ward, every vote counts and I encourage you to make sure your voice is heard.

“This next Council term will be one of our most significant, full of challenges and opportunities. Whether standing for Council or voting, involve yourself in the election process rather than sit idly by as others shape the future for you.”

Every voter can vote on whether to keep or remove the Māori Ward. The result of the poll will be declared at the same time as the 2025 Horowhenua District Council election and the outcome will become effective from the 2028 election.

Regardless of the outcome, the Māori Ward and Māori constituencies will remain in place for the 2025-2027 term.

For more information on Māori Wards and the 2025 Local Election, go to www.horowhenua.govt.nz/elections.