A Gisborne councillor says Māori wards are key to making sure that local iwi are represented.
A proposed change to the Local Electoral Act would remove any use of public polls to confirm the establishment of any Māori ward.
It will be scrutinised at the Māori Affairs Select Committee today.
Gisborne councillor Meredith Akuhata-Brown doesn't herself whakapapa to the region she represents.
She told reporter Meriana Johnsen that Māori wards will ensure a voice for local iwi and hapū.
