The process for selection of nominees for the Māori Standing Committee opens this week.

The Wairoa District Council has now confirmed the Māori Standing Committee Terms of Reference enabling the selection process to begin. A nomination form has been introduced as part of the process, however, this does not supersede the selection process as per the Terms of Reference and maintains that each marae in their respective takiwā retains their tikanga protocols to undertake their selection process for the Wairoa District Council Māori Standing Committee.

Wairoa District Council Chief Executive Kitea Tipuna encourages anyone who is interested in supporting the Council to find out more about the role.

He said the purpose of the Māori Standing Committee is to assist Council with the implementation of policies and work programmes to enable effective governance, engagement, and service delivery for the district’s Māori communities.

“The Māori Standing Committee provides a vital role within Council offering insight into strategic issues for Māori and the communities represented in the development of the Long-Term Plan, the effectiveness of the District Plan and the delivery of the Annual Plan. Representatives also ensure the work of the Committee is carried out in a way that enhances the social, economic, cultural, and environmental wellbeing of the Wairoa district.”

The committee comprises eight takiwā representatives, one Wairoa whānui representative (to represent Māori who whakapapa back to hapū/iwi outside of Wairoa), His Worship the Mayor, and two Wairoa District Council elected members.

Nominations will open on Thursday, 15 June 2023. Completed nominations must be received by Wairoa District Council prior to 5pm, Friday, 14 July 2023. Confirmation for the selection of the Wairoa District Council Māori Standing Committee will be Friday, 28 July 2023.

Nomination forms are available from reception at the Wairoa District Council or contact Council’s Māori Relationships Manager at duane@wairoadc.govt.nz.

Photo credit: kauwhatareo.govt.nz 

16 June 2023

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