In recent weeks, it has come to light that FNDC Councillor Davina Smolders has launched her 2026 general election campaign on the ACT party list. While pursuing her political aspirations is her right, it's critical that this pursuit does not come at the expense of our communities, particularly the rights of the Māori indigenous peoples.

Despite her role as a representative, Davina Smothers has consistently undermined Māori rights within the Far North District Council. Her engagement with council matters appears to be selectively focused on issues concerning Māori rights, only to oppose them. This is troubling, especially given that Māori make up over 40% of the region’s population. Her actions betray a disregard for the vital voices of hapū and iwi in council proceedings.

Moreover, Davina Smothers seems to be exploiting the very tactics she once condemned in others. Her lack of constructive contributions during her tenure as FNDC councillor exacerbates her disregard for Te Tiriti o Waitangi (The Treaty of Waitangi) of 1840, which she has yet to uphold or defend actively. This treaty remains a cornerstone of New Zealand's constitutional framework and a crucial avenue for recognizing and empowering indigenous rights.

As a councillor, Davina Smothers has failed to champion the issues and needs unique to our region and has instead opted for a political strategy that marginalizes Māori voices. In doing so, she reduces the diversity and richness of opinions and solutions that could otherwise benefit our entire community.

We believe that the residents of the Far North District deserve leadership that actively supports and defends all our community members' rights, aligning their actions with the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi. It is therefore with urgency that we call for Davina Smothers’ resignation.

Your support is needed to make our voices heard. Sign this petition to demand Davina Smothers step down from her role as FNDC councillor, and to ensure that our council is represented by individuals who truly prioritize and fight for the rights of all residents, especially the indigenous Māori community.