Hekia Parata

National Party MP

6 December 2010

Hekia Parata humbled by promotion

National MP Hekia Parata says she is humbled by her promotion to Cabinet, announced by Prime Minister John Key today.

“This is a real honour. I feel privileged and proud to be given the opportunity to serve as a Minister in John Key’s Government, and undertake to do all I can to advance and improve the services that New Zealanders receive.”

Ms Parata has also paid tribute to colleague Pansy Wong for the work done in portfolios including Ethnic Affairs and Women’s Affairs.

“Her strong advocacy in these areas will continue,” Ms Parata says.

“All New Zealanders understand these have been challenging times both domestically, and internationally. The National-led Government continues to face up to those challenges on behalf of all Kiwis. I look forward to doing my part to help all our communities realise the dream of a brighter future.”

Ms Parata is from Ruatoria where she was brought up in a large family. She is married to Sir Wira Gardiner and has two teenage daughters. She has a background in both the public service, and in business.

She recently contested the Mana by-election achieving a strong 6 per cent swing of support to the Government.

“I look forward to getting my feet under the desk and learning all I can about the portfolios the Prime Minister has entrusted me with. I’m excited about the prospect of serving the public of New Zealand in a Ministerial role and the new challenges this will bring.”

ENDS

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