Poll Reveals Strong Te Tai Tokerau Support for He Whakaputanga and Political Independence

A significant majority of Māori voters in Te Tai Tokerau believe He Whakaputanga, the 1835 Declaration of Independence, should hold formal constitutional recognition alongside Te Tiriti o Waitangi. According to a Whakaata Māori–Curia poll released on Tuesday, 20 October 2026, 70 per cent of respondents supported the dual recognition of these foundational documents. As reported by Te Ao Māori News and Whakaata Māori, the findings highlight the enduring importance of the declaration to northern uri as they prepare for annual commemorations at Waitangi. Journalist Rukuwai Tipene-Allen noted that northern tribes view themselves as kaitiaki of these sacred covenants. The poll surveyed 500 Māori adults on the Māori roll in Te Tai Tokerau between 5 and 15 October. The results, broadcast during a debate moderated by Maiki Sherman and Julian Wilcox, show a significant shift in political preferences. While Labour maintains a lead in the party vote at 27 per cent, this represents a decline. The Green Party has seen a substantial rise to 25 per cent, up from 10 per cent in 2023. Te Pāti Māori sits at 11 per cent, followed by NZ First at 6 per cent and the Tai Tokerau Party at 3 per cent. In the candidate race, Green candidate Hūhana Lyndon leads with 24 per cent, followed by Labour’s Willow-Jean Prime at 18 per cent and Aperahama Edwards of Te Pāti Māori at 17 per cent. Community expectations for leadership are high, with 93 per cent of respondents stating it is important for their MP to stand up to their own political party on Māori issues. Regarding incumbent Mariameno Kapa-Kingi, 40 per cent of respondents felt she has done a good job. On the matter of Ngāpuhi Treaty claims, 50 per cent of voters believe negotiations should continue to find the right path forward, while 28 per cent supported an immediate centralised commercial settlement. Looking toward local priorities, the poll identified the cost of living as the most pressing issue, followed by housing and health. Regarding infrastructure, 47 per cent want the next government to prioritise housing and water. Finally, regarding upcoming commemorations at Tou Rangatira, 48 per cent of voters believe all Members of Parliament should be welcomed at Waitangi, regardless of their views on Te Tiriti, reinforcing the region's role in upholding the mana of the proceedings.