Tunuiārangi Mclean is not new to politics.
“I've stood for Manurewa before at elections for the Māori Party but on the Party list chasing the party vote.”
“Now that Dr Pita Sharples is stepping down from the upcoming elections, I've decided to put my name forward.”
Therefore he is well aware of the ins and outs of politics and the hard work that lies ahead.
Tunuiārangi McLean says his main focus apart from recruiting new members is to encourage those who have left the party in recent years, to return.
“There are many elderly people in this electorate, I've approached Te Tai Tonga Haka Group and various marae as well, and my message to them is to come back into the fold.”
And if he doesn't achieve his goal to head to the elections, his loyalty and support will remain with the party, no matter who they choose to replace Pita Sharples.