Vote Opens for Waikato-Tainui

Vote Opens for Waikato-Tainui

One of the most significant initiatives for Waikato-Tainui in recent years will reach a new milestone next week when voting opens to identify a new Governance and Representation structure.

The review, which was initiated nearly two years ago by Kiingi Tuheitia, is aimed at updating the tribe’s internal structure to foster and promote increased performance and improved outcomes across its commercial, economic, social, cultural and environmental aspirations.

Led by co-Chairs Nanaia Mahuta and Sir Henry van der Heyden, the review has canvassed the views of tribal members, identified existing barriers to success, assessed other Māori and indigenous organizational structures, and analyzed feedback to result in the development of two model options for a new structure.

Now, tribal members will be undertaking a voting process to identify a preferred model that will consolidate the tribe’s success to date and position it for ongoing performance. The results of the vote will be provided to the tribe’s representation body, Te Kauhanganui, which will make the final decision on a new model in November.

“The review of our Governance and Representation arrangements is one of the single most important kaupapa we have undertaken since the Waikato River settlement in 2008. The future of the tribe will be influenced considerably by its outcome,” said Ms Mahuta.

“Over the past 20 months the Review team has had the privilege of amassing the thoughts, insights and dreams of the many members who have participated in the consultation process. Now it is imperative that members exercise their right to vote for a model that they believe will forge a pathway to a successful future for the generations to come,” she said.

Voting opens on Monday 6 October and continues until 12 noon on Wednesday 29 October 2014. Election packs will be posted to all members aged 18 years plus and marae committees/trusts, and both postal and online voting is available. Information about the review and the vote can be found at www.waikatotainui.com.

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