Councillors have reaffirmed their support for mana whenua representatives at the decision-making table, voting to retain the Canterbury Regional Council (Ngāi Tahu Representation) Act.

The depth of feeling was evident during discussion at today’s Council meeting as several Councillors spoke of the gains that had been made since the Act passed into law in 2022, as well as the journey since first having Ngāi Tahu representation in 2010.

Better local decision making, reduced legal costs, more efficient use of staff time, and stronger relationships between Environment Canterbury and mana whenua, were among reasons cited for keeping the arrangement – which allows for the appointment of two Ngāi Tahu Councillors.

As part of the Coalition Government agreement between the National and ACT parties, they took steps to have the Ngāi Tahu Representation Act repealed.