Labour MP Peeni Henare. Photo: RNZ / Samuel Rillstone
Labour MP Peeni Henare has been confirmed as his party's candidate for the Tamaki Makaurau by-election.
The by-election was sparked by the death of Te Pati Maori MP Takutai Moana Natasha Kemp last month.
Henare previously held the Tāmaki Makaurau seat, before being beaten by Kemp in the 2023 election by a majority of just four votes over Henare in 2023, with a recount widening the margin.
Henare had held the seat since 2014.
"I am humbled and honoured to be selected to represent Labour in the upcoming by-election," Henare said.
He said jobs, access to quality and affordable health services, affordable housing and relief from the rising cost of living were a top priority.
"Tāmaki Makaurau is where I was born and is my home. I know the challenges that many whānau are facing. The cost of living is putting significant pressure on whānau just to put kai on the table," Henare said.
"My focus is clear. To fight for real solutions so our people can flourish.
"This means better paying jobs, making sure that when whānau are sick, they don't need to choose between kai and seeing the doctor and it means getting more whānau into warm dry and safe homes."
Labour leader Chris Hipkins said Henare is the leader Tāmaki Makaurau needs.
"He has the experience and track record to deliver real solutions for working families, rangatahi, kaumātua and our most vulnerable whānau," Hipkins said.
Former Newshub broadcaster Oriini Kaipara has been chosen to contest the Tāmaki Makaurau by-election for Te Pāti Māori.
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon is yet to announce the date for a by-election.
However, the Speaker of the House published the notice of vacancy in the Gazette on Wednesday, meaning the Governor-General will issue a writ within 21 days of 9 July, instructing the Chief Electoral Officer to conduct the by-election.
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