Students defend Māori and Pacific admissions scheme amid political calls for its removal
University students in New Zealand overwhelmingly support the Māori and Pacific Admissions Scheme, countering politicians who label it discriminatory.
The Māori and Pacific Admissions Scheme, a targeted pathway for Māori and Pasifika medical students established in 1972, has become a flashpoint in New Zealand politics. ACT Party leader David Seymour and New Zealand First candidate Elliot Ikileili have called the programme a case of racial discrimination, urging its abolition. In contrast, a broad cross-section of University of Auckland students voiced strong support, emphasizing the scheme’s role in fostering equity, correcting long-standing inequities, and enhancing the university experience for all.
The Ministry of Health’s review, commissioned after the 2023 coalition agreement, remains unpublished, while dean Warwick Bagg insists that all medical candidates must meet the same academic and professional standards. Students highlighted that MAPAS is a first-year support mechanism, not an ongoing advantage, and argued that its existence counters systemic oppression faced by Māori and Pacific communities.
Why it matters
The debate shapes how New Zealand addresses historic inequities in medical education and influences future policy on race-based programmes.
How the sides frame it
HIGH AGREEMENTBoth camps report the scheme’s existence, political controversy, and student support, but left-leaning coverage emphasizes its health-equity benefits while centrist coverage highlights the political debate and calls for review.
LEFT
Frames the admissions scheme as a successful, equity-driving program that builds a diverse medical workforce and improves health outcomes.
CENTER
Frames the scheme as a politically contentious policy under scrutiny, noting criticism of discrimination and stressing that standards remain unchanged.
The left emphasises
- targeted admission scheme fuels Māori and Pacific doctor growth and health equity
- diverse workforce essential for culturally appropriate services and closing a seven-year life-expectancy gap
- graduates sit the same exams and often achieve distinction
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