Racism from Council staff the big problem
Interview with Professor Margaret Mutu FRSNZ (in te reo Māori) on the many battles between Ngāti Kahu & local government.
Makere Mutu describes the numerous occasions Ngāti Kahu has taken councils to the Environment Court due to breaches under the Resource Management Act. While Māori wards might support representation, Mutu states the biggest problem has been racist staff working for the councils. Until there are more people that understand Māori worldviews and ways of working and have connections to the people and land in the district, there won't be any real change. She warns anyone seeking to take on a role in Council to be careful as they will experience racist attitudes.
Interview: https://tehiku.nz/te-hiku-radio/kuaka-marangaranga/27362/racism-from-council-staff-the-big-problem