The “Encouraging Maori participation in local government” site page clearly states:

“Taken as a whole, they are an obligation TO CONSIDER what steps the council can reasonably take to encourage and assist Maori to participate in local affairs. THESE PROVISIONS DO NOT CONFER SPECIAL RIGHTS AND PRIVILEGES ON MAORI THAT ARE NOT ACCORDED TO OTHER TAUIWI (other members of the public).”

Link here > http://www.localcouncils.govt.nz/lgip.nsf/wpgurl/About-Local-Government-M%C4%81ori-Participation-in-Local-Government-Encouraging-M%C4%81ori-participation-in-local-government