October 06, 2016
Labour up for Maori seat challenge
Labour Party leader Andrew Little is confident the party can see off a challenge from the Maori Party for the six Maori seats it holds.
New Maori Party president Tukoroirangi Morgan is pushing to claim all seven seats, even if that means standing aside in Te Taitokerau to give Mana’s Hone Harawira a clear run.
There’s particular emphasis on Hauraki Waikato, with Waikato Tainui chair Rahui Papa considering standing against Nanaia Mahuta.
Mr Little says Labour will fight fiercely for all the seats.
"Labour has proven it can provide a strong voice for Maori. Maori representation when it comes to Labour isn't an add on. It isn't by doing some sort of agreement or tag along with a big party. Maori representation is absolutely integral to Labour and our Labour MPs inside it so that iw the difference and that is what the debate will be about next year," he says.
Mr Little is also sure Waiariki candidate Tamati Coffey will take the fight to Maori Development Minister Te Ururoa Flavell.
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