What are Māori wards? Why are they important? And why are they facing a referendum in Aotearoa in 2025? In this bold and timely 10-part podcast, former New Plymouth mayor Andrew Judd and journalist Taryn Utiger explore the meaning, mana and myths of Māori wards — from the history of Māori political representation to the modern-day battle for equity in local government. Through expert interviews, whānau voices, real talk, and moments of raw honesty, this podcast shines a light on a part of our democracy that too few understand, and too many fear. Whether you're on the fence or fired up, WTH Are Māori Wards? is here to help you listen deeper, think bigger, and vote informed.
WTH Are Māori Wards?
Claim This Podcastby Andrew Judd and Taryn Utiger
14 episodes
Updated Daily
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Podcast Overview
What are Māori wards? Why are they important? And why are they facing a referendum in Aotearoa in 2025? In this bold and timely 10-part podcast, former New Plymouth mayor Andrew Judd and journalist Taryn Utiger explore the meaning, mana and myths of Māori wards — from the history of Māori political representation to the modern-day battle for equity in local government. Through expert interviews, whānau voices, real talk, and moments of raw honesty, this podcast shines a light on a part of our democracy that too few understand, and too many fear. Whether you're on the fence or fired up, WTH Are Māori Wards? is here to help you listen deeper, think bigger, and vote informed.
Language
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Publishing Since
7/18/2025
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Recent Episodes
October 10, 2025
WTH Are Māori Wards? Episode 13: WTH Have We Learned?
After twelve weeks, twenty-five voices, and more lightbulb moments than we can count — here it is, the grand finale. In this season wrap-up, hosts Anaru Judd and Taryn Utiger look back at the biggest myth-busting moments, the toughest truths, and the most moving kōrero from across the series. It’s deep, it’s cheeky, it’s honest, and it might just be the best episode of the lot. Expect laughter, reflection, a few surprises, and plenty of banter as this dynamic duo unpack what they’ve learned (and unlearned) along the way. Grab your cuppa, whānau because this one goes straight to the heart of it all.
October 3, 2025
WTH Are Māori Wards? Episode 12: Division or Partnership?
Whānau, we’ve saved a big one for last. In our final guest kōrero of the season, we bring you voices that sit at very different ends of the spectrum, and together, they show us exactly what’s at stake. First up is Damon Fox, ACT Party candidate for New Plymouth District Council. He shares why he believes Māori wards aren’t the right path forward, drawing on his own values. Then we turn to Jay and Erin Ruka, whose life’s mahi is weaving aroha, reconciliation and difference into strength. Together these perspectives pose the question, are Māori wards division, or are they partnership? This episode is thoughtful, fiery, and deeply reflective. It’s not just about council seats, it’s about the kind of Aotearoa we want to grow into. Stay tuned for next week, when Andrew and Taryn reflect on the series and wrap up WTH we’ve learnt from WTH Are Māori Wards.
September 26, 2025
WTH Are Māori Wards? Episode 11: Diverse Voices
From “no wards at all” to “Māori wards are a must,” this episode has it all. We bring you kōrero from every corner of the debate. There’s a mayoral candidate, a Treaty expert, a migrant professor, and a long-time community advocate who’s been walking this journey for more than a decade. In this chorus of perspectives, we talk to John Woodward who shares why he wants an at-large system with no wards at all, June Nicklin who takes us back to Te Tiriti o Waitangi and its promises, Professor Mohan Dutta who offers a migrant’s lens on solidarity and justice, and Glen Bennett who reflects on more than a decade of fighting for Māori wards. Together, their kōrero shows just how layered, challenging, and vital this conversation really is. It’s not about left or right, for or against, it’s about what fairness, partnership, and representation looks like in Aotearoa today. Four voices, one kaupapa, and a debate that shapes the future for all of us.
14 total episodes available
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Frequently asked questions
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- What is WTH Are Māori Wards??
- How often does this podcast release new episodes?
This podcast updates daily.
- Where can I listen to this podcast?
This podcast is available on 4 platforms including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and more. You can also use the RSS feed directly.
- Does this podcast accept guests?
Yes, this podcast regularly features guests.
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