Jun 05, 2026
Democracy Action is urging New Zealanders to continue lobbying MPs to remove Article 13.2 — the UNDRIP clause — from the New Zealand–India Free Trade Agreement before ratification.
The clause has nothing to do with trade, and carries significant constitutional implications. It could be used to further embed UNDRIP principles into New Zealand law and policy.
Importantly, the clause can still be removed or amended before ratification through the standard international treaty process under Article 18 of the Vienna Convention, without affecting the substance of the trade agreement itself.
Continue reading
Jun 05, 2026
A major shift in local government is occurring through Mana Whakahono ā Rohe (MWaR) agreements under the Resource Management Act.
These agreements are creating long-term participation and governance arrangements between councils and iwi authorities.
The growing use of MWaR agreements is raising wider questions about democratic accountability, public oversight, governance, and who ultimately makes decisions affecting local communities.
The Far North District Council’s agreement with Te Rūnanga-Ā-Iwi-Ō-Ngāpuhi demonstrates how extensive these arrangements can become.
Continue reading
Jun 05, 2026
See more posted on the Democracy Action Facebook page
The FNDC debacle – Why democracy matters
Peter Williams examines the lessons from the Far North District Council experience and highlights the importance of ensuring that those who make decisions on behalf of communities remain directly accountable to the people they serve. READ MORE
Continue reading
Apr 10, 2026
Water services under new management: regional entities, iwi partnerships, and the end of local control.
Across New Zealand, new water service entities are being established under the Government’s “Local Water Done Well” framework, marking a significant shift in how water services are owned, controlled, and politically overseen.
Continue reading
