Hamilton City Council is set to enter a new era working side-by-side with Maaori on Council Committees to make decisions for the city.
On Monday, the Council signed a kawenata (agreement) with Waikato-Tainui and Te Runanga o Kirikiriroa. This kawenata will form the framework for five Maaori representatives who are anticipated to commence their new roles as external members of Council committees from next week.
A small ceremony to sign the kawenata took place in the Council Chamber with representatives from Council’s Maaori stakeholder groups, Elected Members and staff.
Mayor Andrew King says: “We’re proud to be at a point where we can collectively take these brave steps towards providing meaningful representation for Maaori. It’s been a long time coming and we’re committed to making it work.”
Chief Executive Richard Briggs says: “There is a steep learning curve ahead of us but the intent is positive and the commitment from all parties is strong following 18 months of working together to build the framework that will guide the new working relationship.”
The five nominees that Council will consider next week were chosen from more than 40 applicants by a selection panel comprising representatives of Waikato-Tainui, Te Runganga o Kirikiriroa and Te Haa o te whenua o Kirikiriroa.
Pending the Council’s approval next Tuesday, they will be formally welcomed to their new roles, supported by their whanau, at 9:30am next Thursday 11 October.