Leftists look to Harawira for new party

Hone Harawira is expected to boycott today's first meeting. Photo / Mark Mitchell

Former Green MP Sue Bradford believes Hone Harawira, with his safe seat, could be the catalyst for a new left-wing party if he is expelled from the Maori Party.

Mr Harawira faces disciplinary action from his party after the rest of his caucus laid a complaint over a column he wrote in a Sunday newspaper questioning the party's direction, its leadership and its coalition with National.

He is expected to boycott today's first meeting of the disciplinary committee considering the complaint after his electorate committee called for it to be dismissed last week.

Although Mr Harawira has so far said he wants to remain with the Maori Party, Ms Bradford yesterday said that if he was expelled from the Maori Party or left, it could prove the catalyst for a new party's creation.

Although no concrete plans were yet in place, talks about forming a party were gaining traction, including with Unite union leader Matt McCarten.

Mr Harawira holds an electorate seat with significant personal support which would effectively ensure the new party a place in Parliament.

"I think it's unmistakable that what happens with Hone probably will have quite a big influence on doing something before the election. He's got a seat and that gives credibility when you're doing something new because people won't want to waste their vote."

Ms Bradford said there was significant support from several groups on the left, although she refused to name them. She said she had not yet spoken to Mr Harawira, but believed their politics were very similar, especially on social issues.

Mr Harawira did not return calls yesterday. He has so far said he wants to stay with the Maori Party rather than become an independent.