Meka Whaitiri
Ikaroa-Rawhiti Labour Party MP
Why should people vote for you?
To succeed as the MP for Ikaroa-Rāwhiti you must be accessible, available, and mobile around a large, challenging rohe. I believe I've kept faith with my constituents on the issues that matter and been a strong voice in Parliament, leading the opposition to unpopular Ture Whenua reforms and preventing them being passed this term. I've worked hard with my Maori caucus colleagues to ensure our Maori perspective is always heard and respected in the Party.
What is the single most pressing need in your electorate?
Ikaroa faces challenges around jobs, health, economic development and education, but the critical issue is housing. This year my offices have dealt with over 70 whanau in desperate situations. We advocate for each of these whanau and often our intervention results in positive outcomes that otherwise wouldn't happen.