Oriini Kaipara has successfully retained the Tamaki Makaurau seat for Te Pāti Māori.
“I am humbled by the trust the people of Tāmaki Makaurau have placed in me and the Māori movement. I am ready to do the mahi, ready to learn, and ready to fiercely advocate for our rohe and for Te Iwi Māori” says Oriini Kaipara.
“This victory is not mine alone; it belongs to all of us who believe in mana motuhake and the power of our people. It belongs to the people of Tāmaki Makaurau and to every volunteer, community, organisation, and individual who gave their time and energy to ensure Māori voices remain strong.
“I want to acknowledge Takutai Tarsh Kemp. I wouldn’t have got here without her sacrifice and service.”
“I wish to acknowledge Peeni Henare for the significant campaign he fought, and look forward to working alongside him in the pursuit of outcomes for our people.”
Oriini Kaipara has been given only six weeks to launch herself into the most intense of campaigns. Against a veteran politician, she has stood tall and shown the courage, humility, and determination of a true advocate.
“We are immensely proud of Oriini. In just six weeks, she has proven her courage to go up against giants, her humility to learn quickly, and her fire to fight for our people. This victory is a sign that Māori continue to put their faith in our movement and in our determination to uphold Te Tiriti and advance mana motuhake” said Te Pāti Māori Co-leaders, Debbie Ngarewa-Packer, and Rawiri Waititi.
“This result is a mandate to keep building our movement, to keep protecting our taonga, and to keep amplifying the voice of our mokopuna yet to come.”