A Wellington councillor says Maori can feel welcome in Wellington, without making it their spiritual home.

New research from Victoria University shows many Maori who migrated to the capital 50 years ago still don't consider the city home.

Councillor Ray Ahipene-Mercer says that isn't necessarily a serious cause for concern.

He says some Maori retain roots in other parts of the country, while others like him feel the city is the place that they're from.