Political heavyweights step up for kids.
Key political figures will debate the rights and interests of children at a forum to be held at Ponsonby Primary in
Auckland next week. The event promises to be a lively one with Education Minister Hekia Parata facing off against a full
complement of party spokespeople and candidates. Those taking part include local candidates Jacinda Ardern (Labour),
Denise Roche (Greens) and Miriam Pierard (Internet Mana). New Zealand First Deputy Tracey Martin and ACT President John
Thompson will also take part.
The event is being run under the banner of ‘Tick for Kids’; a collective that seeks to put the interests of children at
the centre. Spokesperson Anton Blank says, “We want New Zealanders to engage with politicians about issues for our
children. These local events provide platforms for everyone to articulate these concerns to political candidates
directly.”
With so many important politicians involved the debate is bound to be vigorous and wide-ranging, covering education,
health, housing and child poverty.
“We know that the New Zealand public is concerned about increasing rates of child poverty,” says Anton Blank. He states
that the ‘Tick for Kids’ movement, which is less than a year old, is becoming an important non-partisan force in New
Zealand and the engagement of politicians in ‘Tick for Kids’ events is proof of that.
When: Wednesday August 6th
Where: Ponsonby Primary School, 44 Curran Street, Herne Bay, Auckland
ends