Greens promise billions in public money over four years to a Māori-owned trust beyond govt control

Summarised by Centrist

In what many may see as an extraordinary surrender of public accountability for taxpayer funds, the Green Party is campaigning on transferring $2.44 billion in taxpayer funding over four years to a new trust owned and governed by hapū and iwi.

Under the proposal, $2 billion would form a permanent investment fund supporting marae and Māori communities, while $400 million would be available for urgent restoration and infrastructure needs. A further $40 million would establish and operate the trust.

The government would have no power to appoint trustees, direct investments, change funding decisions or otherwise interfere beyond the application of ordinary law.

Green Party co-leader Marama Davidson said iwi Māori would design the trust, decide how the money was distributed and establish its governance through nationwide consultation.

“This is actual tino rangatiratanga for iwi,” Davidson said.

The Greens say marae should be treated as critical infrastructure because they provide shelter, food and other support during emergencies. Funding could also be used for housing, health and social services, as well as climate adaptation and resilience planning.

Once mature, the $2 billion investment fund was expected to generate between $47 million and $118 million annually.

Read more at RNZ

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