The Invercargill City Council is considering the creation of a Maori ward and one councillor says the time has come.
Following concerns raised by Local Government Minister Nanaia Mahuta last year, a Local Electoral (Maori Wards and Maori Constituencies), Amendment Act was passed last month.
The concerns were regarding a lack of Maori representation on councils and the small uptake of Maori wards being created by councils.
Ms Mahuta had been concerned that when a council took that step, a poll could be demanded after only 5% of the population signed it.
This could overturn the council’s decision.
The topic was discussed by members of the Invercargill City Council performance, policy and partnerships committee yesterday.
A report detailed the update and councillors were told the Bill, among other things, removed the ability for the community to demand a poll.
Deputy electoral officer Michael Morris said now was an opportune time to have the conversation with the community alongside the representation review, as well as with Maori.
Cr Lesley Soper said that the time had come for a Maori ward in Invercargill.
"I look forward to the report in May."
