Māori Party Co-leader thrilled with confirmation of the Party's first list MP

Māori Party Co-leader Te Ururoa Flavell is thrilled that Marama Fox will be joining him in Parliament following the counting of Special Votes in this year's General Election.

"This is a boost to the party and our ability to be a strong and independent Māori voice in Parliament," says Mr Flavell.

Marama Fox will be the party's first list MP since the Māori Party was established in 2004.

"This historic milestone warrants putting down the hāngi then Marama and I have got some serious work to do. We've got a big three years ahead of us.

"This results shows how important it was for people to give their party vote to the Māori Party including many non-Māori who weren't aware before the election campaign that they could give their party vote to the Māori Party," says Mr Flavell.

Mr Flavell and the Māori Party Executive have been on the road for the last week canvassing people's views on a proposed relationship accord with the National Party.

"This year's election result has reinvigorated people's resolve to ensure more Māori Party candidates are elected in 2017 and that the Māori Party is always part of the Government. It's an exciting time and a great opportunity to rebuild the party - 2017 is marked for success," says Mr Flavell.

Marama Fox was one of the new six Māori Party candidates contesting the seven Māori seats this year.

"As one of the outstanding new candidates, Marama Fox brings fresh energy and ideas to the Māori Party. She'll be good for our party and good for our people," says Mr Flavell.

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