Parties Propose Major Investment in Te Reo Māori and Marae at Kaupapa Māori Debate

Leaders from seven political parties gathered for TVNZ's Kaupapa Māori Debate on Thursday, 29 October 2026, to outline their visions for the future of Aotearoa. The wide-ranging discussion focused on strengthening the Māori economy, protecting the language, and ensuring community resilience through marae-based initiatives. Te Pāti Māori co-leader Rawiri Waititi advocated for a bilingual future, proposing that te reo Māori should be compulsory to ensure every New Zealander has the opportunity to learn. Waititi emphasized a welcoming approach to language acquisition, contrasting it with the historical punishments ancestors faced for speaking their native tongue. He also proposed a Māori-owned supermarket to increase competition and lower food costs for whānau. The role of marae as essential community hubs was a key point of agreement regarding climate resilience. Green Party co-leader Marama Davidson detailed a proposed $2.4 billion investment in marae, arguing that decisions on fund distribution should sit with Māori to ensure stronger local outcomes. National’s Tama Potaka defended the coalition’s record, highlighting existing support for marae through sustainable arrangements and recent funding for Māori broadcasting and Te Matatini. While the parties clashed over the Waitangi Tribunal and economic policy, the debate highlighted a shared focus on the importance of te reo Māori in the public sector. ACT’s Nicole McKee noted the success of Māori participation in charter schools, while Willie Jackson of Labour stressed the need to support whānau and communities against price gouging. The debate provided a platform for Indigenous-led solutions to modern challenges, from healthcare equity to localized economic development.