Māori voting starts slowly


Only 53 people – 2.2 per cent of the roll – has voted this week in the Waipā Māori ward election.

Voting to replace Takena Stirling opened a fortnight ago with four candidates – Barney Manaia, Bill Harris, Dale-Maree Morgan and Gaylene Roberts – standing for one seat on the council.

Waipā has 2368 people enrolled on the Māori electoral roll.

Postal votes should be posted no later than June 19 while voting closes on June 23.

Voting papers can also be delivered to council offices, the afterhours box at Te Awamutu library and the orange ballet bins at Fresh Choice Te Awamutu, Fresh Choice Leamington and Countdown Te Awamutu.

The election will be managed independently on council’s behalf by elections.nz and is expected to cost the council between $22,000 – $25,000.

Māori wards provide a way for Māori to contribute to decision-making and have representation at council. The successful candidate represents the whole district.

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