Green Party policy would create $2.4b marae fund

The Green Party has announced its 2026 Tiriti policy ‘Te Waonui a Tāne: Thriving Marae and Thriving Communities’.

It would see marae around New Zealand receive funding through a $2.4 billion trust owned and managed by iwi and hapu.

“When marae are strong, communities are stronger,” party co-leader Marama Davidson says.

“The Green Party policy Te Waonui a Tāne will recognise and resource marae to keep our communities connected and safe, for all of us.

“We can ensure our mokopuna inherit vibrant, resilient, and self-determining communities. Marae are the living hearts of our communities.

“Current funding for marae creates uncertainty as it’s based on the priorities of the Government of the day. Our marae are too important for that level of uncertainty.”

Davidson says Te Waonui a Tāne is the Green Party’s plan to create an ongoing and protected source of funding for marae, hapū, and the communities around them.

“Te Waonui a Tāne will operate through two complementary funds. Te Rākau Whakarauora Restoration Fund will provide immediate access to funding for urgent needs.

“Te Tōtara Haemata Intergenerational Fund is an enduring investment fund that delivers long-term returns for generations to come.”

Party co-leader Chlöe Swarbrick adds: “Marae plan for generations, not election cycles.

“Politicians come and go, but te Tiriti is forever. Today we are announcing the pūtea and plan to honour that partnership.

“When the roads are closed, marae stay open. Marae are essential, critical infrastructure like hospitals and schools, and require dedicated, sustained resourcing like we are announcing today.

“Climate adaptation requires investment in our resilience. Social cohesion requires spaces to bring people together and celebrate our unique identity.

“This is Te Waonui a Tāne: for, by and of Aotearoa New Zealand.”