MEDIA STATEMENT

6 May 2014
Chris McKenzie, Māori Party Candidate for Te Tai Hauauru

A survey released today from Tatauranga Aotearoa shows that Māori families were generally positive and connected to their culture, language and whānau. This is despite some trying years following the significant global recession of 2008.

Chris McKenzie, candidate for Te Tai Hauāuru believes that this shows the great resilience of our whānau during tough times but warns against complacency.

"Culture and identity is integral to who we are and I believe that the survey findings are the result of initiatives like kōhanga, kura and wānanga and the growth of tribal and pan-tribal organisations and leadership over many years" said Mr McKenzie.

"We need to ensure, however, that this growth continues as the long term viability of every Māori initiative is constantly under threat or challenge. I intend to make my contribution to ensuring ongoing support to language revitalisation efforts and build on all the wonderful initiatives that support our identity".

ENDS

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