Government reforms to the way universities are governed will lock in Maori representation.
Under current legislation, there's no requirement for institutions to have Maori members on their governing councils. However, the law will change to ensure there is at least one Maori representative.
However, the Government points out all but one of the institutions already have Maori appointees.
As part of wider changes, ministers are pressing ahead with its earlier plans to reduce the size of university and wananga councils.
Te Whare Wanganga o Awanuiarangi says it's comfortable with the changes, while Te Wananga o Raukawa is taking a wait and see approach on their effects.
