Sunday 19 May, 2013.

Press statement for immediate release:

Hayden Hape seeks Labour candidacy in Ikaroa--Rawhiti.

Hayden Hape, Te Taiwhenua o Tamaki Nui A Rua chairman and Ngāti Kahungunu board member, today gave confirmation that he will seek selection as the Labour Party’s candidate for the Ikaroa-­Rawhiti by-­election.

“I’m Labour to my core.

I’ve spent most of my life working in the agricultural sector as a shearer, a fencer, and a labourer.” “I worked for years in the freezing works, serving as a trade union delegate during that time, and now I work hard as a manager to ensure the workers I’m responsible for are safe and secure in their jobs.” “More recently I’ve been involved in iwi and hapū leadership, chairing our local Taiwhenua representing our rohe on the board of Ngāti Kahungunu.” “I believe politics isn’t just about representation for Māori.

It’s also about being able to show the people that you are a reflection of who they are and where they are from.

That you share their hopes and aspirations for a healthier, more vibrant whānau, for better paying jobs, and for the best start in life for everyone.” “I'm proud that our chief, Parekura Horomia, was a mentor of mine, a guide, and a whanaunga.

His successor will need to be as strong an advocate for the people as he was, and will need to be intimately aware of the issues faced by whānau and hapū from Te Araroa right down to Wainuiomata.”

“I will be proud to continue Parekura’s legacy of kanohi-­ki-­te-­kanohi engagement with the people at the grassroots.

I’m ready to stand, ready to listen, ready to lead.”

ENDS

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