#opinion: We must back Whānau Ora at a critical time. 

We must back Whānau Ora at a critical time. 

I’m proud to take on the role of Labour’s Opposition spokesperson for Whānau Ora.

For many Māori and Pacific families, Whānau Ora is not just a government programme- it’s practical support that helps people get ahead.

Across Aotearoa, Whānau Ora providers do excellent work serving their communities. They support whānau into homes, connect people to healthcare, and help families build better futures. Often, this work happens quietly, but its impact is significant.

And right now, that work matters more than ever.

With the rising cost of living, many whānau are doing it tough. Rents are less affordable, food and petrol prices are up, and everyday costs are putting real pressure on families. Increasingly, people need support that is flexible, practical, and grounded in their reality with manaakitanga and dignity.

That’s exactly what Whānau Ora delivers.

As Opposition spokesperson, my focus is simple: how we can support providers to do even more for the whānau they serve at this critical time.

I’m looking forward to meeting with Whānau Ora providers across the country to hear what’s working and what more is needed. Because I believe that providers know their communities best and government should work alongside them, not stand in their way.

I have also be requested a meeting with the Minister, Hon Tama Potaka to discuss how we can better support this work moving forward.

Whānau Ora works because it puts whānau at the centre. Labour will always back that approach-  because when whānau thrive, Aotearoa thrives.

Shanan Halbert 

“Before he was elected to Parliament in 2020, Shanan spent 15 years in education leadership and management at tertiary institutions improving access to higher learning for many young people, Māori and Pasifika.

He grew up in Hawke’s Bay and has whakapapa to Iwi including Ngāti Whitikaupeka, Rongowhakaata and Ngāti Kahungunu.

As Labour’s spokesperson for Auckland Issues, Shanan is committed to working alongside the community to set the city up for the future. He’s focused on ensuring that infrastructure is resilient, that public services – like hospitals and schools – are world-class, transport connections meet the needs of a growing city, and that there’s warm, dry housing for everyone.

Shanan believes that everyone deserves to be able to live freely, just as they are. In his role as Labour’s spokesperson for Rainbow Issues, he is working hard to ensure the rights and dignity of the LGBTQIA+ and takatāpui are upheld in Aotearoa New Zealand.”

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