More than 80% of Maori live in urban areas. Most are in the main metropolitan centres with a quarter living in Auckland alone. This was not always the case obviously. In the late 1930's over 80% of Maori were living in rural areas. During the Second World War, however, young Maori were ‘manpowered’ into industries to support the war effort beginning the urban drift.
Initially, the change brought greater education, prosperity and acceptance for most with the governments of the day encouraging the move and assisting with jobs and accommodation. Over time however when the industries closed down and the state accommodation fell into disrepair the advancements have not seemed so attractive. Maori it seems, have wanted a change.
Settlement of large land claims has brought new wealth to some Maori Iwi and the urbanisation has become corporatisation. This I believe is one of the driving forces behind the new Maori political leaders. It explains the movement away from the traditional Labour support that attracted Maori voters and why they now seem so intent on getting into bed with National. Sure they will chase down promises of Maori Seat retention, seabed and foreshore legislation review amongst others that Shonkey will be more than happy at this stage to pay lip-service to. But it is most important to remember the roots that are more akin to Labour than National. In fact, apart from what the Maori leadership says, only 2.2% of votes went to the Maori Party and surveys have suggested that more Maori voted Labour than National in the general seats. OK, dance with National if you want but watch your toes!
6 comments:
1.When I went to Countdown today there was a gentleman of Maori descent singing well for the Maori Battalion. His songs were nice and he was very kind to an elderly lady that approached him.
2.When I am at work the nicest prople are the maori's in the student union office.
3.Thanks to the Maori the Rauapehu mountains are a reserve for rich pakeha's to enjoy.
Yes. I agree with this Robert. The Maori are a proud, intelligent and adaptable race of people.
I too am proud of the achievements made in land rights, voice and social concience in our times. I despair of this being thrown away for short term political expediency
"When I am at work the nicest prople are the maori's in the student union office."
At my work I honestly find that race has nothing to do with whether people are 'nice' or not - especially among our students!
Those statements about 'friendly Maori' remind me of how some people talked in the 50s and 60s.
"The Maori are happy people who all can sing."
Remember that, as a friend once said, we all have sandwiches for lunch and we all go to the toilet.
"This post has been removed by the author."
I'm guessing it was 2nd.
I'm guessing it was .... THE CURMUDGEON!
But hey it could have been me !
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