Colin Ambler/cvnznews.com
Te Pāti Māori has unveiled a new policy promising $200 million in funding over three years for Takatāpui initiatives, including the establishment of an independent commission governed by Takatāpui leaders and backed by guaranteed funding.
The policy, launched this week, is centred on transferring decision-making power directly to Takatāpui communities rather than relying on government agencies or advisory bodies.
Co-leader Rawiri Waititi said the proposal was founded on a straightforward principle: “Nothing about Takatāpui without Takatāpui.”
“For too long, decisions have been made about Takatāpui without Takatāpui. Our policy changes who holds the power,” he said.
Under the proposal, the new commission would oversee Takatāpui-specific funding and have authority over how resources are distributed. Te Pāti Māori says the body would not be another advisory group whose recommendations could be ignored, but an independent organisation with ring-fenced funding and direct control over its programmes.
The party’s $200 million package would be spread across a range of areas including healthcare, mental health services, housing, education, community safety and cultural development.
Key commitments include access to gender-affirming kaupapa Māori healthcare, Takatāpui-led mental health and suicide prevention services, housing support, measures aimed at preventing violence and hate incidents, and programmes designed to strengthen cultural identity and educational pathways.
The announcement comes as political parties increasingly target specific communities with tailored policies ahead of the election campaign. Te Pāti Māori argues that existing systems have too often failed to meet the needs of Takatāpui people and that greater self-determination is needed to improve outcomes.
Waititi framed the proposal as an expression of rangatiratanga, saying it was not enough to consult communities about their needs.
“This is rangatiratanga in practice. Not simply asking our people what they need, but giving them the authority and resources to build it,” he said.
He also delivered a message of inclusion to Takatāpui whānau, describing them as an integral part of Māori communities.
“You belong. You are Māori. You are whole. You carry whakapapa, tikanga and mana.”
If implemented, the policy would represent one of the largest targeted investments ever proposed by Te Pāti Māori for Takatāpui-focused services and development.
