MEDIA STATEMENT
Maori Party
13 March 2014
Maori Party Ikaroa Rawhiti candidate search begins
The Maori Party will launch their search next week for a candidate to stand in the Ikaroa Rawhiti electorate.
Nominations for the candidacy open on Monday (March 17) and close on April 7 with the successful candidate being
announced on April 13.
“We need people who are passionate about our kaupapa, eager to represent our people and dedicated to advancing Maori in
the changing political landscape,” said Maori Party Ikaroa Rawhiri electorate co-chair Bayden Barber.
“We need our people to look beyond the political game played out on our TVs and online when it comes time to vote later
this year, and recognise that it is the Maori Party that has gained more for Maori in the past eight years than every
other political party combined. Our candidate needs to be able to communicate this readily to the electorate and
motivate our people to vote.”
The party’s most experienced MP Hon Tariana Turia will kick-off the search for a new candidate in Ikaroa Rawhiti at a
wananga to be held this weekend [March 15] at Te Poho o Rangiianui Marae in Napier.
“This hui is open to all interested and potential candidates to speak with Mrs Turia and electorate leaders about the
workings of Parliament and the nomination and selection process for the electorate.”
The candidate will be chosen based on a combined vote of the people and a panel of experts at a voting hui on April 12.
“We wanted a system that would give the voice of our people, yet also consider crucial attributes that could lead the
party to greater success both in the Ikaroa Rawhiti election and in representing the Maori Party generally,” said Maori
Party Ikaroa Rawhiti electorate co-chair wahine Ivy Raroa.
People wanting to vote in the selection process must be registered with the party on March 17, be 18 years of age or
older and living in the electorate.
ENDS