Napier mayor's proposal to remove mana whenua from committees fails

Thursday 11 December 2025 · 2 outlets · 2 reports · updated Thu 11 Dec 2025, 5:53pm

In this story Napier City Council, Ngāti Kahungunu, Richard McGrath

Napier Mayor Richard McGrath's proposal to exclude mana whenua voices and voting rights from council standing committees has been defeated. Deputy Mayor Sally Crown criticised the move, describing the proposal as a display of disrespect that blindsided councillors during a tense meeting.

How they headlined it

3h

2:47pm5:53pm

1. NZ HeraldThu 11 Dec 2025, 2:47pm

   Deputy mayor hits out at Napier mayor at fourth full meeting of new council: ‘Gross misjudgment and disrespect’ (opens in new tab)

2. RNZThu 11 Dec 2025, 5:53pm

   Proposal to remove mana whenua voice at Napier City Council fails (opens in new tab)