Greens propose $2.4b funding to back 'critical' marae
The New Zealand Green Party has proposed a $2.4 billion trust to provide long-term funding for marae, citing their role as critical community infrastructure. The initiative aims to support climate resilience, social services, and emergency response capabilities.
Why it matters
This proposal highlights the intersection of indigenous rights, climate adaptation, and the role of community-led infrastructure in disaster management.
The Green Party is campaigning on establishing a $2.4 billion trust dedicated to marae.
Co-leader Marama Davidson said marae were critical infrastructure and needed funding certainty to continue their work responding to weather emergencies and supporting communities .
Te Rangatiratanga Trust would be owned and governed by hapū and iwi, with $2.44 billion of government investment over four years.
There would be two funds within that: the $2 billion Te Tōtara Haemata Intergenerational Fund, dedicated to long-term investment in marae and their communities; and the $400 million Te Rākau Whakarauora Restoration Fund, which would provide immediate access to funding for urgent needs.
The trust would cost about $40 million to set up and run.
Davidson said the intergenerational fund could return between $47 million and $118 million once it had matured.
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