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FICTION: That Maori are under-represented on local councils.
FACT: The 2019 data is that Maori make up 13.5% of all elected local body officials. The 2018 census had Maori as 13.7% of the adult population. There is no under-representation. In Parliament, Maori are over-represented.

FICTION That Maori are not able to have their voice heard on council matters.
FACT: Most councils already ensure Maori have a voice around the council table via standing committees, where half of the members appointed by local iwi. Those iwi members have full voting rights and the same status as councillors.