More than 140 candidates have put themselves forward for Māori wards. The implementation in October will see more than 60 Māori councillors elected in Māori seats across the motu.
"We know historically we've had a low representation of Māori on our councils," Freeman-Greene said.
"Councils make important decisions that affect all our communities, so it's critical Māori are represented and have a say in those decisions.
"It's fantastic to see so many people putting their hands up".
Bonita Bigham, the chair of Te Maruata which is LGNZ's collective of Māori elected or appointed to local government by iwi, says in the past, many Māori thought the local government wasn't a place for them because they couldn't see themselves represented.
"It's abundantly clear the introduction of Māori wards has empowered more Māori to stand," she said.
All 62 positions saw nominations as the ballots shut Friday, with 10 councillors being elected unopposed, which Bigham says, from a te ao Māori perspective, is not a bad thing.
"I'd suggest in most if not all instances it reflects the careful and purposeful consideration and effort that iwi and hapū have made when putting forward a preferred candidate," Bigham said.
Voting for local body elections closes at midday on Saturday, October 8.
