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September 20, 2023
Slim lead for Labour in Te Tai Hauāuru
Waatea Team
Posted On September 20, 2023
Download AudioSoraya-Peke Mason looks set to hold Te Tai Hauāuru for Labour despite a strong challenge from Te Pāti Māori co leader Debbie Ngarewa Packer, but the big winner could be National in terms of an increase in its party vote.
A Whakaata Māori-Curia Research poll released last night before a candidates debate showed Harete Hipango’s push to start contesting Māori seats after a 20 year gap has benefit.
She drew 12 percent support, and 13 percent said they would give their party vote to National, up from 3 percent in 2020.
Radio Waatea political reporter Claudette Hauiti says that could reflect the fact the Greens are not standing a candidate, but it also shows Ms Hipango has a presence in the electorate.
Te Tai Hauāuru voters rated the cost of living was identified as their single biggest issue at 27 percent, well ahead of the economy and housing, while 11 percent of those under the age of 40, said honouring Te Tiriti o Waitangi was the key issue.
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