Te Pati Māori has started the selection process for its candidates in the 2026 election, just over a year away. Haley Maxwell will contest Ikaroa-Rāwhiti. Currently the seat is held by Cushla Tangaere-Manuel on a margin of nearly 3,000 votes. Maxwell has said on social media “
In a statement from Te Pati Māori.
“This wasn’t a choice- it was a calling,” says Maxwell. “Te Pāti Māori has been the unapologetic voice for our people when Te Tiriti, our reo and our haka have come under attack. I’m stepping forward for every whānau who feels forgotten, for our mokopuna who deserve to live proud and free, and for the rangatahi who will one day pick up this mantle and carry it further.”
Maxwell’s campaign will focus on tackling sky-high food costs, unaffordable housing, and low incomes across Ikaroa-Rāwhiti, while championing Te Pāti Māori’s justice, housing, and mana motuhake policies. An experienced kairaranga tangata and nationally recognised kaihaka, she is committed to weaving communities together and expanding marae-based solutions such as Te Kōti Rangatahi.
“Haley Maxwell spearheaded the historic Hīkoi mō Te Tiriti from Te Tairāwhiti right through to Kahungunu. Haley embodies the fierce compassion and courage that Ikaroa-Rāwhiti is famous for” said Te Pāti Māori Co-leader, Rawiri Waititi.
“She has stood on the marae, in the courts and on the streets for our people. Parliament will be a stronger house with her voice echoing the roar of Te Tairāwhiti.”
“Haley is a mover, a shaker, and a fierce champion for our people” said Te Pāti Māori Co-leader, Debbie Ngarewa-Packer.
“She will fight for tino rangatiratanga, for our rangatahi, affordable homes, liveable incomes and a justice system that heals rather than harms. We are thrilled to welcome her to the Te Pāti Māori whānau.”
