Tamati Coffey joining in with Rotorua Primary School students during their performance yesterday. Photo / Stephen Parker
David Cunliffe seems to have won over Rotorua school children with his promise of their own digital tablet.
That's the pledge the Labour Party leader made to more than 150 Rotorua Primary School pupils and staff yesterday morning during his visit to the city as part of his, and local candidate Tamati Coffey's campaign trail.
He introduced himself in te reo Maori before reciting his pepeha (connections proverb).
Students sang and performed a haka throughout the visit with Mr Coffey later joining in. They had a cup of tea before visiting children at nearby Pukeroa Oruawhata kohanga reo.
Despite the majority of his audience being too young to vote, Mr Cunliffe outlined the party's policies which included free health care for mothers-to-be, extended paid parental leave, smaller classes for teachers and digital devices for every student.
"We love kids and love families and want each of you to be a star, like this guy. You all know uncle Tamati, don't you?" Mr Cunliffe asked.
"If Tamati and the red team are brought into Government we will give each child their very own digital device or tablet. There's a little bit of message here for mums and dads, help us, help you and uncle Tamati will be shining bright in Parliament, a star we want in the Labour galaxy."
Principal John Naera said it was easy for politicians to make statements but what they wanted to see was it being backed up.
"Our board of trustees and staff are already talking about how we're going to fund this for our kids. The proof is in the pudding. If Labour does get in we hope politicians stand up and do what they say."
Mr Cunliffe said the visit was an opportunity to engage with schools.
"I think this visit is absolutely on message, last time I was in Rotorua we were visiting Red Stag sawmills up the road talking about jobs and we're here to talk about families and education."
The first homes are expected to be connected by the end of June.