In less than a month the highly contested Tāmaki Makaurau Māori electorate will be decided in a by-election triggered by the passing of Te Pāti Māori MP Takutai Tarsh Kemp in June.
She won the seat in 2023, beating Labour's Peeni Henare by just 42 votes.
Challenging Henare this time is well known broadcaster turned political nominee for Te Pāti Māori - Oriini Kaipara. While they both represent sitting parties, Kelvyn Alp is standing for NZ Loyal, Sherry-Lee Matene as an independent and Hannah Tamaki is also running for Vision West.
Oriini made headlines internationally as the first wahine Māori to wear moko kauae presenting mainstream news.
She talks to Mihi about her decision to run.
Oriini Kaipara (left) and Peeni Henare. Photo: YouTube / Newshub, RNZ / Angus Dreaver
