Te Pāti Māori says it is pressing ahead with candidate pre-selections as the party ramps up preparations for the next election, with Party President John Tamihere signalling confidence despite recent political scrutiny and internal pressures.
Tamihere says the party remains firmly focused on challenging the current Government and advocating for whānau struggling under mounting cost of living pressures.
The comments come as many Māori communities continue to face rising housing costs, food prices, fuel expenses and financial strain, with community providers warning demand for support services is increasing.
Tamihere says Māori providers are operating in an increasingly difficult environment, with many organisations under pressure from funding uncertainty, workforce shortages and growing social need.
Whānau support services, health providers and kaupapa Māori organisations have raised concerns in recent months about the impact of government reforms and tighter economic conditions on frontline services.
Despite ongoing political turbulence surrounding Te Pāti Māori, Tamihere says the party’s focus remains on strengthening its electoral campaign and building support ahead of the 2026 election.
Candidate selection processes are continuing as the party prepares to contest key Māori electorates and expand its political influence in Parliament.
Te Pāti Māori has positioned itself strongly on issues including tino rangatiratanga, Te Tiriti o Waitangi, housing, poverty, Māori health and opposition to government policies it says disproportionately affect Māori communities.
Political observers say the next election is shaping up as a critical test for the party as it seeks to convert grassroots support into greater political leverage.
Tamihere says economic hardship facing whānau and mounting pressure on Māori service providers will remain central campaign issues as Te Pāti Māori takes its message directly to voters across the country.
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