Nelson City Council

12 May 2012

As we swing straight from one poll into another, I wish to stress the importance of making your voice heard on whether Māori should be represented around the Council table.

This is a historic and bold proposal. If it goes ahead, Nelson City Council would be the first unitary council in the country to establish a Māori ward.

It is not known to many, but all Councils across New Zealand are required by central government legislation to give effect to treaty obligations when carrying out council business. A single Ma-ori ward seat gives a more effective, efficient way than we have at present to carry out these obligations.

Not only is it the right thing to do, it is also the most cost effective way to do the right thing. The process we are using to implement a Māori ward means the vote is in your hands. It is up to the community to tell us if they support Council’s decision to implement a Māori ward or not. Make sure you have your say.

Although the decision by Tasman voters on amalgamation was not to proceed, it makes sense to continue to look at ways we can take a more collaborative approach across the region. Nelson City Council is hosting a discussion with the Mayors and Chief Executives of Tasman and Marlborough District Councils on 23 May to look at ways we can provide common services.

I look forward to updating you on the outcome of these discussions.

Aldo Miccio
Mayor of Nelson