The Far North Council has voted unanimously to retain its Māori ward and is exploring the legal implications of refusing to hold a referendum.
Today is the final day for councils to decide whether they will ditch Māori wards or agree to a binding poll on their existence.
Napier Mayor Kirsten Wise believed the decision to reaffirm would strengthen the city’s governance arrangements.
Wellington City mayor Tory Whanau said Māori wards not only created outcomes for Māori but also for everyone in the city.
Ruapehu District Council voted unanimously to retain its Māori Ward and will hold a binding poll in next year’s local body elections.
Horowhenua voted unanimously in 2021 to introduce the Māori wards.
Acting Prime Minister Winston Peters led the Coalition contingent arriving at Tuurangawaewae Marae.
The Far North District Council’s Māori ward decision meeting is being postponed out of respect for leader Kīngi Tūheitia’s burial in Waikato on Thursday.
Defiant Whanganui District councillors have voted 11-2 to affirm their decision to introduce a Māori ward in 2025.
Western Bay of Plenty Council has voted to reaffirm the introduction of Māori wards in next year's local elections.