Māori Wards Referendums: 24 Districts Vote to Abolish, 18 Retain

Māori councillors are assessing the outcomes of recent referendums regarding Māori wards, with reactions ranging from optimism to confusion. Preliminary results from the local government elections held on October 7, 2025, indicate that 24 districts have voted to abolish their Māori wards, while 18 districts have opted to maintain them. The results reflect a significant shift in local governance decisions across the regions.

Margins in several areas are notably close, suggesting that final results may vary once official tallies are confirmed. For instance, in the Horizons Regional Council, the votes to retain Māori wards lead by a mere 123 votes. Similarly, in the Ruapehu District, the pro-Māori ward side is ahead by just 90 votes. These tight margins illustrate the contentious nature of the issue, with local communities deeply divided on the role of Māori wards in governance.

Many Māori councillors are reflecting on the implications of these results, with some highlighting the positive aspects of the votes to retain wards. They argue that maintaining Māori representation is crucial for ensuring that indigenous voices are heard in local government. Conversely, others feel “baffled” by the outcomes in areas that chose to dismantle Māori wards, expressing concerns about the potential impact on Māori communities.

The referendums are part of a broader conversation about representation and inclusion in local government. The decision to retain or abolish Māori wards has sparked discussions about the importance of Māori perspectives in decision-making processes. Councillors and community leaders are now calling for a deeper engagement with local populations to understand the reasons behind the votes.

The final results of the referendums are expected to be released on October 13, 2025. Until then, the debate surrounding Māori representation will likely continue, as both supporters and opponents of the wards assess the implications of the vote. The outcome may influence future discussions about governance and representation not only in New Zealand but also in similar contexts around the world.

As communities await the official results, the focus remains on fostering dialogue about the importance of inclusivity in local governance. The decisions made in these referendums will play a critical role in shaping the future of Māori representation in local councils across the country.