Maori: 90% say hold off energy asset share sales

Nearly 90% of Maori want the Government to wait for the outcome of a special Waitangi Tribunal hearing before selling up to 49% of shares in three state energy companies which own hydro dams.

Only 4.7% want share sales to proceed with a settlement made later, according to a survey being conducted through the specialist Horizon Research Maori Panel, which presents the adult Maori population nationwide.

The survey started on Friday (July 6).  As the tribunal hearing gets under way today (July 9), interim results from 242 respondents also show

• Only 5.8% want the Government to proceed with the sale, but reserve shares to later settle any Maori claims which might be successful, and

• Only 1.6% support selling the shares – and buying some back later to settle any successful Maori claims.

The New Zealand Maori Council’s action to the urgent hearing over water rights and energy company sales issues is so far supported by 75.7% of Maori, while 11% are neutral, 11.3% oppose and 2% are not sure.

Which of the following, if any, do you believe the Government should do in relation to Maori claims over rivers and their use for energy?

Do you support or oppose the New Zealand Maori Council's action to seek an urgent Waitangi Tribunal hearing over water rights and energy company sales issues?

For further information please contact:

Graeme Colman

Principal

Horizon Research Limited.

Telephone: 021 84 85 76

E-mail: gcolman@horizonresearch.co.nz;