The coach of the New Zealand Maori hockey team says he will consult with players first before putting his case to the sports international body to become a distinct team.
The team held its annual general meeting in April and one of the issues raised was how it could become a separate national team.
Kahu Ripia says New Zealand Hockey did not approve the proposal, saying New Zealand is one country with one team.
Mr Ripia says he is working on another proposal, but needs input first.
He says his team still wants to maintain cordial links with the national Black Sticks squad, which includes some of his Maori team players.
Mr Ripia says one argument he will make is based on the model used in the United Kingdom where there are individual sports teams representing Scotland, England, Wales and Ireland.
He says it is important to also have a Maori side that can compete against other Pacific nations.
Kahu Ripia is hoping to meet with the Federation of International Hockey within a month.
