Pita Sharples wins communications award

Maori Party co-leader Pita Sharples has won a public relations award for his communication skills.

Dr Sharples was to get the award at The Public Relations Institute of New Zealand (PRINZ) gala dinner in Auckland tonight.

The party's other co-leader Tariana Turia said she was overjoyed by the news Dr Sharples was being awarded the honour of PRINZ Communicator of the Year 2006.

Members nominated individuals from outside the industry who they considered to be excellent communicators.

"The Maori Party has always been proud of the way that Dr Sharples has engaged with such a wide range of audiences, and impressed them all with his sheer charisma and presence," Mrs Turia said.

- NZPA