The Office for Māori Crown Relations: Slimming Down Functions and Workforce

The Office for Māori Crown Relations, also known as Te Arawhiti, is planning to downsize its functions and workforce as part of a broader government restructuring effort. In August, Minister for Māori Development Tama Potaka announced plans to transfer many of the office’s responsibilities to the Ministry for Maori Development, Te Puni Kōkiri.

Background and Impact

Last month, Te Arawhiti confirmed that 51 roles are set to be disestablished as part of the reorganization. This move is part of a wider scrutiny week, which focuses on the performance of government entities. The transfer of functions has raised concerns among some MPs, including Te Pāti Māori MP Hana-Rawhiti Maipi-Clarke, who asked whether it would cause challenges to carrying out remaining Treaty Settlements.

Transferring Functions

According to Secretary for Māori Development Dave Samuels, the transfer of functions will not affect Treaty Settlements. However, settlements and Marine and Coastal Area Act are among the functions that will remain with Te Arawhiti. The new configuration sees Te Puni Kōkiri taking over coordination of significant events on behalf of the Crown, including Waitangi Day in 2025.

Changes Ahead

44 full-time equivalent roles will transfer from Te Arawhiti to Te Puni Kōkiri, along with funding for those positions and organizational overhead. Samuels and the chief executive of Te Arawhiti are expected to make a decision on the structure of both organizations next week.

Te Puni Kōkiri’s Vision

Deputy Secretary – Strategy Terina Cowan confirmed that Te Puni Kōkiri’s vision remains unchanged despite the changes. The ministry is focusing on key priorities, including Whānau Ora, economic development, and monitoring. “Our role will be slightly different,” she said. “We’re currently looking at what our priority areas will be aligned with this government’s focus.”

Conclusion

The transfer of functions from Te Arawhiti to Te Puni Kōkiri marks an important shift in the governance structure of Māori affairs. While some concerns have been raised, both organizations are committed to carrying out their duties effectively. As the process unfolds, it will be interesting to see how these changes impact the delivery of services and support for Māori communities.

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