Green Party candidate and Te Tiriti advocate Tania Waikato is set to discuss the changing face of political campaigning, the power of social media and the challenges of navigating online political attacks in an upcoming interview with Waatea.
A lawyer and former legal adviser to Te Pāti Māori, Waikato has become widely recognised for her advocacy on Te Tiriti o Waitangi and for establishing the Rārangi Rangatira, a public list recognising schools committed to giving practical effect to Te Tiriti principles.
Her online presence has attracted significant attention, with digital campaigns combining educational content, humour and commentary on contemporary political issues. The interview will explore how social media has become an increasingly important tool for engaging audiences and encouraging civic participation.
A key focus will be the role authenticity plays in modern political communication, particularly among Māori audiences. Waikato has frequently used humour and popular culture to discuss complex constitutional and political issues, reflecting a broader trend toward more conversational and accessible online engagement.
The discussion will also examine how public figures can respond to coordinated online criticism. Waikato recently drew national attention after turning criticism directed at her on social media into a fundraising campaign by producing merchandise inspired by the online attacks.
The interview will explore what lessons other candidates, campaigners and community advocates can learn about responding constructively to online harassment while maintaining focus on their kaupapa.
Another topic will be the political communication technique commonly referred to as the “dead cat strategy.” The phrase describes a tactic where attention is deliberately redirected toward a provocative or controversial issue, shifting public debate away from more substantive policy discussions.
The conversation will examine how voters can recognise when political controversies may be serving as distractions from broader issues such as housing, health, education or the economy, particularly during an election campaign.
Waikato will also reflect on whether she believes elements of the criticism directed at her fit that description, and how political discourse can remain focused on meaningful debate rather than personal attacks.
With social media continuing to reshape election campaigns, the interview highlights the growing influence of digital platforms in informing public debate, mobilising supporters and shaping political narratives in the lead-up to the 2026 General Election.
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