December 18, 2023
Costello acknowledges cop whānau in maiden speech
New Zealand First MP Casey Costello has used her maiden speech to pay tribute to her whānau who helped shape her values – not only her whānau Māori but her whānau pirihimana.
She descends from Tapua, whose children were Tari, Patuone and Tamati Waka Nene – the latter pair being signatories to Te Tiriti o Waitangi.
As well as that connection to Ngāpuhi, Ngāti Hau, and Ngātiwai from which she can draw strength, she had the experience of joining the police as a wide eyed 20-year old.
“I know the face of inhumanity, of cruelty and suffering. I have seen fear, despair, and more death than I want to remember. But I have also witnessed bravery, selflessness and compassion. I understand people and I know how in unity amazing things can be achieved,” Ms Costello said.