Tariana Turia has confirmed she would be interested in staying on as the co-leader of the Māori Party if no other female is elected to the House. Last night 200 family members and supporters farewelled Tariana Turia and Pita Sharples at Te Wharewaka in Wellington.
Tariana Turia and Pita Sharples are old hands at coping with political matters in parliament, and now the challenge has been laid down to those following in their footsteps.
It was a full house last night as many shed tears during Tariana and Pita's final addresses, though humour was heard throughout.
The families of the pair say despite the criticisms they've shouldered, working for their people was always at the forefront.
Even though Tariana is stepping down from her role as an MP, she is still able to sit as the female co-leader of the Māori Party.
Come October the Māori Party will hold their AGM where they will decide who shall sit as co-leader of the party.