Maori representation in local government is set to be debated in Parliament.
A Maori Party bill has been drawn that would require all local bodies to have Maori wards.
The Local Electoral (Maori Representation) Amendment Bill is in the name of Maori Party MP Te Ururoa Flavell.
Mr Flavell says for too long Maori have not been considered in local government, or have been considered through toothless advisory groups.
The bill proposes the number of seats be based in proportion to the general Maori population of the relevant territory or region.
