Mana Party splits Maori Party support - poll

Hone Harawira, leader of the newly formed Mana Party. Photo / Janna Dixon

A new poll shows the Mana Party could split Maori voting, allowing Labour to edge out the Maori Party in both electorate and party vote contests.

The Horizon Research survey found 30.5 per cent of Maori surveyed said they would consider becoming a member of the new Mana Party, while 42 per cent of the Maori Party's Maori electorate voters were open to the idea.

Among those who voted for the Maori Party in Maori seats in 2008, only 37.7 per cent remain loyal in electorate voting and 33 per cent in party voting.

Half the respondents thought the $500,000 byelection was a waste of money, with the majority wanting to see other parties standing candidates.

- NZHERALD STAFF