Māori Electoral Act 2001
The Māori Electoral Act 2001 is a New Zealand law that governs the electoral rights of the Māori people. It allows them to choose whether to vote in the general electoral roll or the separate Māori electoral roll, which is specifically designed for Māori representation in Parliament. This act aims to enhance the political participation of Māori and ensure their voices are heard in the democratic process.
Under this act, the number of Māori electorates can change based on the population of Māori voters. The act also provides for the establishment of the Māori Electoral Commission, which oversees the electoral rolls and ensures fair representation. This legislation reflects New Zealand's commitment to recognizing and supporting the rights of its indigenous population.