default-output-block.skip-main
National | Adrian Rurawhe

New Māori MPs look forward despite party problems

Labour return to Parliament, but it looks like they're about to lose a leader.

“I'm not calling for a no confidence vote at this time, but I am saying it's a matter the party needs to address in the near future,” says Labour leader David Cunliffe.

However for these two new Labour MPs, despite their party being plagued by issues, they are looking forward.

MP for Te Tai Hauāuru, Adrian Rurawhe says, “I hope to get on with addressing the issues of my iwi, hapū and families of Te Tai Hauāuru.”

“It's great to see the history of this place and the pictures of my grandfather Tau Henare and my other elders who've represented in parliament, so there are a lot of shoes to fill,” says the new MP for Tāmaki Makaurau, Peeni Henare.

New Zealand First's Pita Paraone returns and he's made one recommendation to the new blood “No matter where you come from, don't forget to keep in touch with your people and heed their advice.”

For one of National's nine Māori MPs Dr Shane Reti, the Māori Caucus in National is very strong and focusing on Māori issues is an obligation.

“While the Maori caucus will lead it, it's embraced by the whole party,” says Dr Shane Reti.

While National prospers, Labour flounders and only a clean-up in house may see the restoration of its mana.