Māori wards referendum
In October 2025, alongside the council elections, you’ll vote in a referendum to decide the future of Māori wards and constituencies.
You'll be voting on whether to:
- Keep or remove Te Pūao Māori Ward for Palmerston North City Council.
- Keep or remove Tonga Māori and Raki Māori constituencies for Horizons Regional Council.
If you’re enrolled, you can vote
It doesn’t matter if you’re on the Māori or General roll – everyone enrolled can vote in this referendum.
Make sure you’re enrolled, and your details are up to date, so we know where to send your voting papers.
Enrol or update online
Councils must follow the result of the referendum
This referendum is a Government requirement, and your decision will shape the 2028 and 2031 elections. Regardless of the outcome, the Te Pūao Māori Ward and Māori constituencies will remain in place for the 2025-2027 term.
How Māori wards work
Māori wards are like Māori electorates in Parliament. Māori roll voters elect Māori ward councillors, and general roll voters elect general ward councillors.
Everyone votes for the mayor.
Every councillor represents the whole community, taking an oath to serve all residents and ratepayers.
Our journey so far
In 2021, after a Representation Review, Te Pūao Māori ward was created to:
- Amplify Māori voices in council decisions.
- Encourage Māori participation in local government.
- Reflect the strong support of mana whenua, Rangitāne o Manawatū.
In May 2024, our council confirmed its strong support for Māori wards and opposed the legislation requiring this referendum.
Watch the 1 May Council meeting