KEY POINTS:
Maori may wish to have specific representation on any new form of local government in Auckland, says the Royal Commission of Inquiry on Auckland Governance.
The commission has issued a background paper, Hei Wahakapuaki i te Korero, for Maori to think about their role in the biggest shake-up of local government in Auckland since 1989.
The commission said any possible changes were likely to raise important issues for Maori, who now deal with the seven territorial local councils and one regional council in different ways.
This lack of consistency might cause problems for Maori, particularly for iwi whose roles cross several different council territories, the paper said.
Fewer councils could bring consistency for Maori on issues such as resource management under one centralised body.
"If new bodies or forums were created as part of any restructuring of Auckland's governance, Maori [might] wish to have specific representations on these bodies."
The commission said this would lead to further issues, such as how Maori representatives were appointed or elected, the number of Maori representatives from each iwi whose role fell within the Auckland region and the role of urban Maori.
"Should a pan-tribal organisation, such as the Mana Whenua Forum, have a part to play?"
At present, the law requires councils to consider whether they want to set up Maori wards. Several councils have considered the option but the Bay of Plenty Regional Council is the only territorial authority to have specific Maori representation.
The Maori background paper follows the release of a general discussion paper and open letter from the commission two weeks ago, calling for submissions on the shape of local government.
The commission is asking for submissions by April 22.
Public hearings will be held in May and June.
