Change in government heralds referendum on Māori wards

Gisborne District Council voters will have a referendum at the 2025 local body election to decide whether to retain the Māori wards.

That is the result of a policy announcement made yesterday by the newly sworn-in coalition Government.

The policy states:

“Restore the right to local referendum on the establishment or ongoing use of Māori wards, including requiring a referendum on any wards e...