Veteran Māori politician Hone Harawira says a return to frontline politics with Te Pāti Māori could be on the cards — but only if he gets approval from his wife first.
The former MP and Mana Movement founder revealed he has been approached about standing for Te Pāti Māori ahead of the 2026 general election. Harawira said discussions are ongoing, but any final decision would depend on family support and whether he believes he can still make a meaningful contribution.
Harawira remains one of the most recognisable figures in modern Māori politics, first entering Parliament with the Māori Party in 2005 before later founding the Mana Movement after splitting from the party in 2011.
He held the Te Tai Tokerau seat until 2014 and became known for his outspoken advocacy on Māori rights, poverty, education and social inequality.
The possibility of Harawira returning comes as Te Pāti Māori continues to build momentum heading toward the next election, with the party increasingly positioning itself as a major voice for tino rangatiratanga and Māori political representation.
His potential comeback is also likely to reignite political debate in Te Tai Tokerau, where Harawira remains a well-known and influential figure despite years away from Parliament.
The 2026 election campaign is already shaping into a highly competitive political contest, with coalition tensions inside government becoming increasingly public and parties beginning to sharpen their positions on Māori issues, immigration and economic policy.
Harawira has continued to remain active in kaupapa Māori advocacy and political commentary since leaving Parliament, regularly speaking on issues affecting Māori communities across Aotearoa.
Any formal announcement about his political future is expected in the coming months as Te Pāti Māori prepares its candidate lineup for the 2026 election.
