If I am successful as a candidate for Mayor or Councillor I would say: As an advocate between Community and Council, I would like Māori to answer this question and I relay it verbally on their behalf. A Councillor and a Mayor is a bridge between the Council and Community; Māori should speak for Māori – not pakeha (I wouldn’t want someone to speak on my behalf). Their microphone needs to be turned up just like any other.
Yes I do support Māori representation around Council and I will support Māori as part of the Councils governance structure next term.
Māori makes up over at least 30,000 of Hamilton.
I feel honoured to share this beautiful city with Māori along with many other diverse cultures. I believe it is important to listen to all the different people that make up and contribute to our city and I respect each and every group and more importantly to iwi.
In my campaign policies we are addressing issues that includes Māori.
I have also contacted the Māori King for his feedback surrounding Māori and how my policies could possibly assist more Māori in Hamilton. I also believe that it is important to hear the voice of people (not just the voice of leaders), as into how Hamilton Council can assist Māori and any other culture in ways that HCC are possibly lacking.