Labour worried about Maori Party two tick campaign

Hon Tariana Turia, Co-leader of the Maori Party Wednesday 15 October 2008

It’s no surprise that Labour is worried about the success of the Maori Party’s two-tick campaign, given the exciting turnaround the party has experienced since the last election, says Maori Party co-leader Tariana Turia.

"The Prime Minister commenting that the Maori Party two-tick campaign is a waste of time shows how worried they are," added Mrs Turia. “We have always said, we have a philosophy which offers a fresh vision for our nation; a vision based on indigenous values” she said.

“Our philosophies and values, our kaupapa, describe a solid foundation for all peoples to live together in Aotearoa. Our political aspirations are to contribute to the advancement of our nation, and all of the peoples who call this land home".

“If we get just six or seven percent of the party vote, we could bring some tremendous MPs into Parliament from our list – people of the calibre of Naida Glavish and Iritana Tawhiwhirangi.

“Last election we were an unknown quantity. This time we have a solid track record and a reputation for integrity. Public attitudes to the Maori Party are quite different this election, and the polls are showing us that.

"As we take our campaign to the streets we are getting very positive feedback from people on the Maori roll that they will be giving us two ticks. In fact, statistics reported from our door knocking campaigns around the country show the Maori Party taking the lion’s share of the party vote of Maori roll voters come election day. What is more, increasing numbers of New Zealanders on the general rolls are also saying they will be giving us their Party vote".

"Many New Zealanders are not aware they are able to give us their Party vote although they are not on the Maori roll. However, we have noticed a change, given the number of enquiries we have had both here in Aotearoa and from Britain, Australia and the United States" said Mrs Turia. "There are many expatriate Kiwis taking an interest in what is happening here at home and we find that most encouraging."

“Voters need to weigh up whether the party vote to the larger parties is a wasted vote, given the huge amount of time spent on being personally nasty, rather than focusing on the issues” said Mrs Turia.

“The Maori Party on the other hand has shown our country that we try to be respectful, trustworthy, have integrity and be solution and issues focussed. That is not a wasted vote. That is a vote for a better future with Maori actively engaged, in the interests of all New Zealanders”.

ENDS

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