Harawira: Still time to add Maori

The Government has time to make changes to ensure Maori have direct Maori representation on the new Auckland Super City, says Maori Party MP Hone Harawira.

Last week the Government rejected the royal commission's recommendation for three Maori seats.

Instead, it wants the new council to include an advisory committee.

"We all know Maori on advisory committees," said Mr Harawira.

"The mayors are happy, they [Maori members] think they're doing a good job, but if you're not listened to, what job is being done?"

Mr Harawira's Tai Tokerau electorate takes in parts of West Auckland.

Prime Minister John Key has said he wants the changes made in time for the October 2010 local body elections.

Said Mr Harawira: "The bill hasn't hit the house yet, so anything's possible between now and then.

"But the people of Auckland have to be prepared to do something, if they're not, we'll look like fools. I don't think it's over, not by a long shot."

The door for Maori seats hasn't been completely closed by the Government - 2001 legislation to enact Maori seats could be used if a region-wide poll was successful, but it remains separate to the pending law.

Details of any protest strategy could emerge at a meeting planned at Orakei Marae this week.