Hon Phil Goff MP

MP for Mt Roskill, Leader of the Labour Party

Phil Goff was elected by unanimous decision as Leader of the Parliamentary Labour Party in November 2008.

He first entered parliament in 1981 since which time he has held numerous high-profile ministerial portfolios including Foreign Affairs and Trade, Justice, Education, Environment, Defence and Housing.

Mr Goff, who is 55 years old, grew up in Mt Roskill and South Auckland. He is married with three children and lives on a small farm near Ardmore in Manukau, where he runs sheep and cattle, enjoying physical work as a break from the demands of Parliament. He has a passion for motorbikes, horse-riding, gardening, watching rugby and league, and international affairs.

He attended Auckland University where he achieved a first class honours degree in Political Studies. He supported himself through university by working seven seasons at Westfield Freezing Company and doing cleaning jobs at night.

He taught politics at the University of Auckland from 1975 to1979, and later worked as an organiser for the Insurance Workers Union.

During the period 1990 to 1993 while he was out of Parliament he lectured in Communication Studies at the Auckland Institute of Technology and was granted a Foreign and Commonwealth Office Scholarship to Nuffield College, University of Oxford in 1992.

Mr Goff says Labour, with its caucus of 43 - just seven down on its 2005 election result, will be a strong and effective Opposition.

"We will offer constructive solutions for New Zealand but will not hesitate in pointing out where we think the government is making bad decisions.

"Where we believe it is acting contrary to the best interests of New Zealand, such as not doing enough to protect Kiwi jobs, slashing Kiwisaver, R&D tax credits and the Fast Forward Fund, or privatising ACC, we will oppose the government vigorously."

Labour will also use its time in opposition to regroup, reconnect with the electorate and develop new policy, Mr Goff said.

"Labour is proud of what it achieved over nine years in government. But in November the electorate delivered its verdict and we are determined to respond to that. We will listen carefully to the electorate to ensure that we are in touch with their needs and concerns and will come back stronger."

Hon Annette King MP

MP for Rongotai, Deputy Leader of the Labour Party

Educated at Murchison District High School and Waimea College, Annette King has a Bachelor of Arts degree from Waikato University. Qualifying with a Post Graduate Diploma in Dental Nursing in 1981, she worked as a dental nurse over 1967-81 and as a tutor at the School of Dental Nurses in Wellington over 1982-84. Over 1991-93 she held the position of Chief Executive at the Palmerston North Enterprise Board. Annette King has been a member of the Labour Party since 1972 and has held various offices, notably being an executive member over 1991-92. In 1984 she was elected as the Labour Party MP for Horowhenua, after which she was appointed Under-Secretary to the Ministers of Social Welfare, Tourism, Employment and Youth Affairs. Over 1989-90 she held the portfolios of Employment, Immigration and Youth Affairs, also having a special role as the Minister assisting the Prime Minister to liaise between Cabinet and Caucus.

* Lost seat in 1990.
* Elected MP for Miramar 1993.
* Elected MP for the new MMP electorate of Rongotai, which includes the Chatham Islands, since 1996.
* Became Minister of Health and Minister for Racing in 1999.
* Continued with Health and took up the new Food Safety portfolio following the 2002 election.
* After the 2005 election she became Minister of State Services and Minister of Police, while maintaining the Food Safety portfolio.
* Appointed Minister of Transport in May, 2006.
* Appointed Minister of Justice in October, 2007.
* Her election majority in 2005 was 12,638.

Annette King is married, lives in the Rongotai electorate and has one adult daughter. Her hobbies include cooking for friends.

Hon David Cunliffe MP

MP for New Lynn

New Lynn is New Zealand. It is a stunning kaleidoscope of cultures alongside hardworking Kiwi families, and the special backdrop of the unique Waitakere Ranges and the Manukau Harbour.

So you can go from the vibrant Avondale or Titirangi markets, to hiking in the Ranges or fishing on the Manukau. All only 30 minutes apart.

The best part of the New Lynn electorate is its people. Genuine people supported by rich community networks. Arty, eco-friendly, diverse, committed. These are the folk I've been privileged to represent since 1999.

I've been doing the hard yards for New Lynn since then - working with Hon Chris Carter to secure the Waitakere Hospital upgrade, working to extend A & E cover to 24/7 basis; helping Lynne Pillay MP champion protection of the Waitakere Ranges with special legislation; securing $300 million for a massive redevelopment of New Lynn town centre, with undergrounding and twin tracking of its rail links and a new transport hub, and assisting South Titirangi to protect its environment during electricity upgrades.

I care deeply about this place and its people; about first class schools, social services and infrastructure, so that every Kiwi kid gets the change to make the best of their lives.

Community service has been part of my life since growing up the son of a vicar in rural South Canterbury, working in the public service as a New Zealand diplomat, and helping Kiwi companies grow and create jobs, as a management consultant with the Boston Consulting Group. I have benefitted from a good NZ state school education, and scholarships my parent could never have afforded. I am committed to giving back to ensure that others can have the opportunity to make the best of their potential.

You can contact me at Parliament or my New Lynn electorate office; 3133b Great South Road, New Lynn, PO Box 15 11 11, Auckland.

Email: david.cunliffe@parliament.govt.nz

Hon Ruth Dyson MP

MP for Port Hills

Ruth was brought up as an "army brat", while her parents were transferred from one army camp to another. She is the second child of four, with an older sister and two younger brothers (one of whom has died.)

She was raised in a sporting environment, her father being a New Zealand representative in surf-lifesaving, water-polo and basketball.

She has been active in community and party politics for many years, particularly in the areas of social justice, environmental issues and human rights.

She entered Parliament in 1993 as Member of Parliament for Lyttelton, then the Banks Peninsula and now represents the re-named Port Hills electorate. She held a variety of Ministerial portfolios during the 1999 - 2008 Labour-led government, including Minister for Disability Issues, Labour, Social Development and Employment, Senior Citizens, Women's Affairs, Associate Health, ACC and the Community and Voluntary Sector.

Prior to entering Parliament, Ruth served as 5 years as President of the New Zealand Labour Party, and several years on the New Zealand Council prior to that.

Ruth is married to Martin Ward, has two adult step-children and four fabulous grandchildren. She enjoys a wonderful garden, kayaking and tramping, and spending time with her family.

 

Hon Parekura Horomia MP

MP for Ikaroa-Rawhiti

Having served as the MP for Ikaroa Rawhiti since 1999, I have witnessed real and positive change take place within our East Coast Maori communities.

Over the last nine years, Ikaroa Rawhiti voters have seen more Maori in mahi, are enjoying quality education, receiving affordable healthcare - and f course tuning into iwi radio stations and not one but two channels on our own Maori Television network.

We have achieved so much, but there is still more to do. If given another term to represent the proud electorate of Ikaroa Rawhiti, I promise to tackle the hard issues facing whanau like domestic violence and work hard to ensure Ikaroa Rawhiti voters have a voice in the decision making process of our country.

I believe that Maori voters in the Ikaroa Rawhiti electorate hold lofty aspirations for their communities - and so they should. I promise to work with everyone, up and down, the electorate to ensure that we work to make those aspirations realities.

Hon Clayton Cosgrove MP

MP for Waimakariri

Clayton lives in Waimakariri, where he went to school at St Bede's College and later obtained MBA and BA degrees from the University of Canterbury. He is a former small business owner and worked in public and corporate affairs until 1999, when he was elected to represent the communities of Waimakariri in Parliament.
Clayton served in several ministerial roles for the Labour Government, including immigration and small business, and is currently Labour's spokesperson on law and order, police, corrections and state-owned enterprises, as well as associate spokesperson on finance.
In 2005 Clayton was the first New Zealander selected for the Forum of Young Global Leaders, and in 2007 was one of only 30 people worldwide chosen to participate in a global leadership and public policy executive education programme at the John F Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University.
Clayton is patron of North Canterbury Special Olympics, an associate member of the Returned Services Association, trustee of the Styx Living Laboratory Trust and adjunct senior fellow in the College of Business and Economics at the University of Canterbury.
For Electorate matters please contact Clayton Cosgrove's Kaiapoi Electorate Office call 03 327 7737 fax 03 327 4095 or email clayton.cosgrove.mp@parliament.govt.nz. Clayton's Kaiapoi Electorate Office is located at 156 B Williams St, Kaiapoi.
For Parliamentary matters please contact Clayton Cosgrove's Parliamentary Office call + 64 4 470 6593 Fax + 64 4 472 6791 or email clayton.cosgrove@parliament.govt.nz
Clayton is also available to meet with constituents throughout the Waimakariri Electorate in his Mobile Electorate Office at the following locations (no appointment necessary):
Rangiora: Every Monday 9am to 10am and Friday 10:30 to 11:30am
Loc: High St (opposite the Post Office)
Belfast: First Friday of the month 9am to 10am
Loc: Corner of Richill Street and Main North Road
Oxford: Second Friday of the month 9am to 10am -
Loc: Main Road (outside the Council Service Centre)
Woodend: Third Friday of the month 9am to 10am -
Main North Rd (opposite the dairy)
Northcote: Fourth Friday of the month 9am to 10am
Loc: Main North Rd (outside St Bede's College)

 

Hon Chris Carter MP

MP for Te Atatu

Chris Carter is the MP for the electorate of Te Atatū, a seat he was first elected to in 1993. His majority in the 2008 general election was 5,298 votes.

Chris has been a long time human rights campaigner, believing all New Zealanders should be treated with respect regardless of their race, religion, gender, ethnicity or sexual orientation.

Before entering politics Chris was a farmer, as well as a teacher; serving in for more than 20 years in primary, intermediate, secondary and special schools.

In Parliament Chris has built on a keen interest in Education, Conservation, and Foreign Affairs. He served as a member of the Foreign Affairs and Trade Select Committee in his first term and in 1999 was Deputy Chairman of that Committee. In that same Parliament Chris served as the New Zealand Labour Party's Junior Government Whip. In 2002 Chris was elected by his colleagues to Cabinet. He has subsequently held a number of Ministerial portfolios including Conservation, Local Government, Ethnic Affairs, Housing, Building Issues and Education. In the 49th Parliament Chris is the New Zealand Labour Party Spokesperson for Foreign Affairs and Ethnic Affairs.

Chris holds a Masters degree in History (Honours) from the University of Auckland and a teaching qualification from the Auckland Secondary Teachers' College.

He lives in Te Atatu South, Waitakere City, with his partner of more than three decades, Peter Kaiser.

Chris' hobbies include gardening, history, travel and reading.

Hon Nanaia Mahuta MP

MP for Hauraki-Waikato

Teenaa Koutou. I'm Nanaia Mahuta your local MP. Hauraki-Waikato is a special electorate and is best defined by its unique geographical characteristics. The Waikato river, our sacred ancestral mountain Taupiri, the wild West Coast Harbours, Raglan surf, Lake Karapiro, the first inland pest free island - Maungatautari, Mt Te Aroha, the Hauraki Gulf and the vast expanse of conservation estate in the Coromandel reaching into the water rich ranges of Hunua are some of what we have to boast. Then there are the many coastal towns, Papakura and Hamilton cities, the many gardens in the Franklin district and sleepy villages scattered throughout. We also make a strong economic contribution through the agricultural sector, thermal-power generation in Huntly (the place I call home) as well as a coal-rich resource in the region.

All this and many communities made up of people who want to make a go of it though working together, smarter and for each other. I am proud to once again represent the region where I have spent most of my life growing up. I still can't profess to know every part of this special place and I remain committed to the people and communities in Hauraki-Waikato.

There are pressing and urgent issues ahead and I want to work alongside the community to put those aspirations at the front of government decision-making. Iwi thoughout the electorate want to get on with settling and implementing their Treaty Claims. Greater co-operation between central and local government will be required to make these steps durable. Local marae and hapu want to continue to protect their natural environment, both coastal and inland resources and food sources that stem from those places. Many families want their children to have the very best opportunities in education, and households would like to see continued investment in public healthcare and warmer more affordable homes. Employment and the protecton of jobs during these uncertain times are even more necessary so no matter whether you live in Tuakau, Te Hoe, Tapu or Te Awamutu, Maaori are continually seeking to improve their quality of life.

I am proud to be a member of the Labour team and I will be working hard on behalf of the Hauraki-Waikato electorate in the next three years to keep this government accountable. Please feel free to call or email me: haurakiwaikato@xtra.co.nz

Hon Maryan Street MP

List MP

I was born and raised in New Plymouth so am really a 'Naki girl. But I learned to become an Aucklander after 27 years of working life there and now I'm a Nelsonian!

I went to Victoria University in the 1970s and got a BA(Hons) in English and then went to Teachers' College in Auckland. I taught in Auckland secondary schools for 8 years (Westlake Girls' High and Green Bay High Schools) because I thought education was a way of changing the world. I still think that, even 30 years on! I went to work fulltime (instead of in an honorary capacity alongside my teaching job) for PPTA, the secondary teachers' union, because I thought unions were a way of changing the world. I still think that. After a couple of other union jobs, I was appointed as the foundation Director of the Centre for Labour Studies at the University of Auckland. I taught there as a Senior Lecturer int the Department of Management Studies and Employment Relations (Arts and Commerce faculties) for 9 years in the 1990s. I completed a Master of Philosophy (First Class) in Industrial Relations and taught New Zealand Labour History, Women and Employment Relations, Organisation and Management and similar things. Then in 1999, I went to do it instead of teach it: I worked for 2 District Health Boards in Auckland and then all District Health Boards across the country, negotiating Collective Employment Agreements with the health sector unions.

I joined the Labour Party in 1984 because I thought that was a way of changing the world. I still think that. It is. Especially if you want a fairer, more just world where people's futures are not determined by the socio-economic status they were born into. I was President of the Labour Party from 1993-1995 and became an MP in 2005 when my daughter was old enough to contribute to the decision. She is now a member of Young Labour. I am gay and have a partner and one daughter.

 

Hon Darren Hughes MP

List MP

Darren Hughes is in his third term as a Labour Member of Parliament. He was elected as MP for Otaki in 2002 at age 24 and for the two terms that he held the Horowhenua/Kapiti electorate he was the youngest MP in the House.

He is currently a Labour list MP, and is ranked at number 9 in the Caucus with responsibilities as Shadow Leader of the House, Chief Opposition Whip and spokesperson on Transport.

In the Clark Labour Government Darren served as a Minister (from age 29) and prior to that was a Government Whip (from age 25). His portfolios were Statistics and Associate Social Development and Employment. He was also the Deputy Leader of the House.

Since going into Parliament, Darren has taken a deep interest in the parliamentary procedures of the House itself, and enjoys his roles supporting Labour MPs to perform effectively in the legislative process.

As transport spokesperson, he believes a strong roading network is vital for the country's economic development, but also sees a much bigger role for public transport and other alternatives to roads such as shipping and rail. He is a strong supporter of building Kiwirail into a service New Zealander's can be proud of.

During the six years Darren was MP for his home electorate of Otaki, he worked with the community and the then government to get results for local people. Issues that he championed included a new health centre for Horowhenua, government funding to begin the Western Link Road and MacKay's Crossing overbridge in Kapiti, electrification of rail to Waikanae, redeveloped pensioner housing in Horowhenua and support for New Zealand Olympians to wear locally made gear in Beijing through Buy Kiwi Made.

Darren's face became more familiar to viewers of TVNZ's Breakfast programme when he and National MP Paula Bennett started a segment called "Political Young Guns" where they would explain their take on politics each week with Paul Henry and Pippa Wetzell.

In the years that he has been in Parliament, Darren has become more convinced in the purpose and power of Parliament to change the lives of Kiwis for the better. He values his chance to serve and wants to make a positive contribution to New Zealand.

Hon David Parker MP

List MP, Dunedin

I worked for many years as a lawyer and businessman before being elected to parliament in 2002. From 2005 to 2008 I was Minister of Energy and Climate Change. My biggest achievements were the introduction of the emission trading system to incentivise the reduction in greenhouse gas emissions (by requiring the emitter to pay), and advances in energy efficiency and renewable energy. The ETS was described by many as the most significant environmental reform in decades and was why the Listener nominated me as top environmentalist of 2008.
More generally, I dislike the huge gap between the wealthy and the poor seen in so many overseas countries and am determined to prevent those extremes in New Zealand.
I believe in policies which give every child the opportunity to maximise their potential, irrespective of the wealth of their parents.
This requires a successful and open trading economy which in turn, via taxes, enables New Zealand to fund quality health and education services for everyone.
Schools and hospital services should be state funded, publicly owned, and not privatised. This has worked well for generations in New Zealand and should not be undermined.
The last Labour government was a very good manager of the economy. We substantially reduced government debt and unemployment. Tax cuts were focused on low and middle income families, so fewer children were living in deprivation. Education and health services were improved for all New Zealanders. Crime rates went down. Individuals, families and communities prospered. For the first time in two decades the gap between the rich and the poor narrowed.
The world has serious environmental problems - climate change, air pollution, over-fishing, desertification, declining fresh-water quality, overpopulation and deforestation. We are blessed with a wonderful natural environment in New Zealand. If New Zealand cannot get it right on these issues, then there is little hope the world will. We can and we must improve our environmental performance. In my view, New Zealand's two most pressing environmental problems are the sorry state of our rivers - many of which are now too polluted to swim in - and our greenhouse gas emissions. A combination of stricter regulation of polluters and requiring polluters to pay is needed to give those who are polluting the rules and economic incentive to clean up.
There is always more to be done to achieve a fair society and sustainable environment and I for one will continue to strive towards these goals.

Email: david.paker@parliament.govt.nz

Hon Shane Jones MP

List MP

Shane Jones was born on 3 September 1959 in Awanui, Northland. His tribal links are to Te Aupouri, Ngai Takoto and he has Welsh and Dalmatian heritage.

Local elders raised money to send him to board at St Stephens College in Bombay. From there he went to Auckland and Victoria Universities to study politics.

Between 1988 and 1990 Shane set up the Maori Policy Unit at the new Ministry for the Environment and later did a year in the PM's Department under Geoffrey Palmer. With four children in tow he then spent a year at Harvard completing a Masters in Public Administration degree on a Harkness Fellowship.

He returned home in 1992 just as the Maori Fisheries Settlement deal was being completed and was appointed to the Treaty of Waitangi Fisheries Commission. He took over as chair in 2000. His task was to get approximately 70 iwi to agree on how to divide up the fisheries assets. This was completed in 2004 when the distribution legislation was passed.

Shane entered Parliament in 2005. He served as chair of the Finance and Expenditure Select Committee before being promoted to Cabinet in November 2007 as Minister for Building and Construction. He was re-elected to Parliament in 2008 and is spokesman for Local Government, Infrastructure and Building and Construction.

Shane and Ngareta have seven children, ranging in age from 29 to 12. His interests include sport, reading, gardening and spending time with his family

 

Hon Trevor Mallard MP

MP for Hutt South

I first shifted to Wainui in 1954. I know what Hutt South is about, I know the people and the issues, and what a great place Hutt South is to live and work in.

As the local MP for 15 years now I've fought hard to get decent health services, I've led the opposition against polluters like Exide, got the funding for the Waiwhetu Stream cleanup, stood up for locals on transport and roading issues and helped with big funding injections for Weltec and IRL.

Labour and Helen Clark's commitment to struggling New Zealanders has seen living standards improve in our community. Unemployment has plunged, we have cheaper GP fees, our kids can get 20 hours free early childhood education, we now have four weeks annual leave, paid parental leave and interest free student loans. None of this would have happened without Labour in government.

We have much more to do and many more positive changes to make - and we can be trusted to deliver.

Hon Lianne Dalziel MP

MP for Christchurch East

I became the MP for Christchurch East at the same time as the election of a Labour-led government in 1999. Aranui is a suburb within the electorate that had been devastated by the policies of a National government: market rents for state house tenants; the Employment Contracts Act which effectively cut wages; the minimum wage increased by less than a dollar an hour over nine years; pensions were effectively cut; unemployment was high; the cost of visiting the doctor was unaffordable to many...the list goes on.

When Labour became the government, Aranui was a suburb that took full advantage of the new prgrammes: income related rents for state house tenants; Community Renewal that replaced old state houses with energy efficient homes; Strengthening Communities; Heartland Services, which brings services into the heart of the community. And at the same time we introduced fairer employment laws, increased the minimum wage every year taking it from from $7 per hour to $12 per hour, we have cut the cost of visiting doctors and for prescriptions. Aranui High School, like so many others around the country, has had real investment approved to help rebuild the school into the modern facility it needs to be. Crime has gone down as a by-product of this investment.

The transformation of Aranui is a story repeated throughout New Zealand and has only been possible because a Labour-led government has been prepared to invest in communities for the benefit of all. There is more to be done and I don't want to see this hard work go to waste by a return to the devastation of the 1990s. That's why I am standing for Labour for Christchurch East.

Charles Chauvel MP

List MP

Over the past 20 years, I have worked hard as a party activist, a union official, a volunteer in the community sector, a local university graduate, a lawyer with a distinguished career, a business owner in Wellington and overseas, a political candidate and now a Labour MP. My partner David co-owns a Wellington-based business based in Central Wellington that employs over 30 people.

My experiences have shaped my beliefs, which sit in the mainstream of modern, secular, liberal, social democratic thought. My vision for New Zealand is one of prosperity, justice and vibrant diversity.

At the 2008 general election, I was re-elected to the New Zealand Parliament as a Labour list MP based in the Wellington region. My responsibilities include flying the Labour flag in Ohariu, working hard across the region to keep the Party’s profile high. I'm proud to serve as a Member of Parliament in New Zealand's 49th Parliament, and to be Labour caucus representative in the Ohariu electorate.

As Labour’s newly-appointed spokesperson on Energy and Climate Change, and Associate Spokesperson on Commerce, I welcome the opportunity to play a role in holding the incoming Government to account in areas of importance to New Zealand’s future.

Hon Pete Hodgson MP

MP for Dunedin North

Dunedin North is a stunning electorate. It has a string of beautiful beaches, forests, wildlife, even a new ecosanctuary - yet it is ‘urban'. It has New Zealand's finest architecture, a history of business acumen and a startling array of public spaces and amenities.

I love the place. Within a stone's throw of my office is Albany Street (one door up from ‘the Cook'!) is the dental and physiotherapy school, the Otago Museum and some great restaurants.

Where we live in Sawyers Bay, near Port Chalmers, we are surrounded by bellbirds, tui, keruru - you name it. If we decide to jump in our kayaks at Aramoana and cross the harbour entrance then it's shags, seals, sea lions and albatrosses.

Dunedin North is where lots of things started - university education, teacher training, Plunket, the finance sector. These days other things are also at play - fashion, film, design, biotechnology, IT. Our health, social and community services are simply the best.

Then there is the University which, along with the Polytech, influences its constituents in many ways. My two sons were educated there, as were many other members of my wider family. The influence of tertiary education is such that Dunedin is the most prominent ‘university town' in Australasia.

I've been the MP for a while now. Long enough to simply say that with almost every major development or change, I have had some involvement. Representing Dunedin North is pure privilege.

Hon Luamanuvao Winnie Laban MP

MP for Mana

Kia Ora, Talofa Lava and Warm Pacific Greetings.

I have been privileged to represent the people of Mana in Parliament since 2002.

The people of Porirua and the Kapiti Coast have made huge gains in recent years. Labour's policies are making a real postive difference for our families and have included: increased employment opportunities, cheaper health care, income-related state house rents, Working for Families, and 20 hours free early childhood education. 

Under Labour, many of our people today are faced with an exciting new dilemma. Instead of looking for jobs and worrying about how to put food on the table, people are thinking about the opportunities available in modern apprenticeships or tertiary study, starting new businesses, buying a home, or saving for their retirement.

Mana is a vibrant and diverse electorate. I am committed to working to promote economic growth and to ensure that there are opportunities for all members of our community. I will continue to work hard to ensure fairness and security for the people of Mana, and for all New Zealanders.

Moana Mackey MP

List MP

Moana lives in Gisborne and is Labour's list MP based in the East Coast electorate which covers much of the Eastern Bay of Plenty, the East Coast and the Gisborne District. Moana splits her time at home between Tairawhiti and the Eastern Bay.

Moana, who is of Ngati Porou descent, grew up in Gisborne attending Mangapapa Primary, Ilminster Intermediate, and Lytton High Schools. In her sixth form year Moana spent a year as an AFS exchange student attending Lycee Balzac in Tours, France.

Moana left the coast to study at Victoria University in 1993 and graduated in 1997 with BSc(Hons) with first class honours in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. Moana did her honours thesis on flystrike and the role of the mixed function oxidase system in insecticide resistance in the Australian sheep blowfly.

After leaving University Moana worked for Mobil Oil in their technical services laboratory before heading overseas. Moana came back to help out in the 1999 election campaign and was elected President of Young Labour for 1999-2000.

Moana went on to work at ESR and AgriQuality, ending up as Team Leader of a laboratory team specialising in persistent organic pollutants, in particular dioxins and furans.

Moana entered Parliament in 2003 when former MP Graeme Kelly retired.

Moana is Labour's spokesperson for Research and Development, Science and Technology and Rural Affairs.

Hon Steve Chadwick MP

List MP

My family has called Rotorua home for 33 years. John and I brought our children up here and I wouldn't live anywhere else.

I've been a midwife, a manager at Rotorua Hospital, a district councillor, and the MP for Rotorua for the last nine years.It has been a privilege to serve Rotorua and I am proud of the gains we have achieved.It has taken hard work and tenacity, but Rotorua can now boast a secure hospital, more pre-schools and education facilities, lower teacher-pupil ratios, improved community safety, long-term funding to clean up our lakes, low unemployment, improved services for young people, Treaty settlements, arts, tourism, environment - all flourishing, all thriving.

It is community that makes Rotorua a great place to live. I work hard to ensure the best outcomes for all of us. My local knowledge and networks keep me informed, and I enjoy fruitful partnerships with government departments, council, voluntary and community organisations and tangata whenua. I believe in making things happen.

Sue Moroney MP

List MP

Sue is a Hamilton-based Labour MP and is Labour's spokesperson on Women's Affairs and Early Childhood Education.

She is a member of the Education and Science Select Committee.

Sue was elected to parliament in 2005, when she sat on select committees dealing with health, industrial relations and transport.

She chairs the Labour Women's Caucus.

Prior to her parliamentary career, Sue was involved in various campaigns to improve the lives of ordinary New Zealanders. They included campaigning to keep the Waikato Plunket family centre open, against health cuts in the 1990s and working to protect and improve low-paid workers' wages.

In former employment, Sue has been a self-employed trainer of health and safety representatives, a union organiser and educator for the NZ Nurses' Organisation, regional educator for the Trade Union Education Authority and National Secretary for the NZ Equine Workers' Union.

Sue also has a background in journalism and has been a journalist and editor for community newspapers as well as working as a journalist for the Northern Hotel, Hospital and Restaurant Workers' Union. She was awarded CNA Young Journalist of the Year in 1983.

Sue has chaired the Waikato Coalition for Public Health.

She is married to Shane and has two children.

 

Hon Rick Barker MP

List MP

Rick Barker was brought up in the coal mining town of Rünanga on the West Coast of the South Island by his Grandparents. He jokes that he is probably the only one in Parliament who knows what it is like to live on the old age pension. The closure of the coal mines and the rapid downturn of the local economy ensured that Rick like many other young people in the area left to find work.

Rick was inspired to join the New Zealand Labour Party in 1973 by Norman Kirks vision for New Zealand of an independent country, particularly by Kirk's strong stand against French Nuclear testing, the recognition of China and his unflagging opposition to the War in Vietnam.

Rick worked in the hospitality, agriculture, driving and construction industries before he joined the union movement. Rick relished the opportunity to advocate against low pay and for better working conditions.

Rick and his wife Jenny have a blended family of five children Richard, Oliver, Kate, Nekel and Jevon.

He has a strong commitment to his family and enjoys spending time with his friends, riding his motorbike and reading.

Elected to Parliament in 1993 and Rick has held numerous positions including Junior Whip, Senior Government Whip and Cabinet Minister. Rick is currently a Labour list MP, Assistant Speaker and Opposition Spokesperson on Courts and Veterans' Affairs.

Ross Robertson MP

MP for Manukau East

Ross was born in Wellington but has lived in Auckland since 1962. Since that time he has had a strong connection to South Auckland, living and working in and for the area, and raising his family there.

Ross is a keen supporter of all sport, and in his younger years played representative rugby at junior level in Wellington. He went on to play for Auckland as a 20 year old, before turning to playing Rugby League for both the Otahuhu and Mangere East Clubs. He sees sport as integral for the health and wellbeing of our children, and is keen to promote children's participation in any and all forms of sport.

Prior to entering Parliament Ross worked as an Industrial Engineer for 15 years. In 1987 he began his parliamentary career as the representative for Papatoetoe, and since then has held the seat (now Manukau East) with a comfortable majority. In the past two parliamentary terms he served as Assistant Speaker of the House, and currently holds a number of portfolios in opposition and is Deputy Chair of the Officers of Parliament Select Committee.

To complement his role as the MP for Manukau East, Ross attended Massey University in 2003 as an extramural student, graduating with a Diploma in Business Studies. He has also been involved for many years with Parliamentarians for Global Action, an international network of parliamentarians whose aims include the promotion of peace, democracy and the rule of law. This has given him the opportunity to meet and build a number of relationships that have been beneficial to him in his role as an MP.

Ross has served the people of Manukau for more than 21 years and particularly enjoys his electorate work, involving himself in the community as Patron of a number of local sporting and service clubs.

George Hawkins MP

MP for Manurewa

George Hawkins was born in 1946. He is married to Jan.

He was elected to the Papakura City Council in 1980 and became Mayor 1983, serving 3 terms. George has been involved on community affairs including the Chairman of the Auckland Local Bodies Airport Partners Committee 1987, and the Deputy Chair of the Franklin Arts Council.

George was elected to Parliament in 1990 and joined Helen Clarks Cabinet in 1999as Minister of Ethnic Affairs, Civil Defence and Police. In 200 he became Minister of Internal Affairs also serving as Minister of Veterans Affairs 2002-2005.

George was the first Minister of Ethnic Affairs and in that role was instrumental in the Government giving the Chinese community an apology for them suffering many indignities including the Poll Tax.

He is now the Opposition Spokesperson for Local Government and has strong connections with a wide range of organisation in his electorate especially in the education field. He has the strongest Labour Party organisation in New Zealand.

Email: hawkinsg@xtra.co.nz

 

Hon Mita Ririnui MP

List MP

Mita was born and raised in Tauranga where he currently resides with his family of seven children and four mokopuna. He is of Mataatua, Te Arawa and Takitimu descent and is a minister of the Rätana faith.

He attended Maungatapu Native school, Tauranga Boys College and has tertiary qualifications from the Bay of plenty Polytechnic, Waikato University and Massey University

Before entering parliament in 1999, as the first elected member for the new electorate of Waiariki, Mita was the Regional Director for Te Puni Kökiri in Tauranga. Prior to this he worked in a number of industries including forestry, construction, mining and the public service in New Zealand and overseas.

Mita possesses a strong ‘can do' and ‘self belief' attitude in his work and life in general and promotes this in all the roles he undertakes.

Mita is unequivocally a strong proponent of Maori self determination, which was apparent during his four years as former Associate Minister of Treaty Negotiations, Health, Corrections and Forestry.

Lynne Pillay MP

List MP

Lynne Pillay is a Labour list MP living in Titirangi and was the MP for Waitakere from 2002 to 2008.

Lynne was born and educated in Palmerston North and trained as a nurse there before travelling and working overseas.

On return to New Zealand Lynne became involved in the Nurses Organisation as a delegate and advocate for working and professional conditions for nurses. She went on to work for the organisation and then in 1991 started work with the EPMU (Engineering, Printing and Manufacture's Union) as an organiser. "I saw first hand the devastation of the Employment Contracts Act with many workers losing pay, work conditions and really struggling to make ends meet. It was not the New Zealand I grew up in and it was not the New Zealand I wanted my children to grow up in" says Lynne. "That was what drove me to stand as a Labour Party candidate."

As a mother, former nurse and workers' representative issues affecting families, worker's rights and the environment are very important to Lynne. Having campaigned for many years for paid parental leave, quality early childhood education, four weeks holiday, apprenticeships, improved health and safety rights and fairer labour laws Lynne felt privileged to be part of a Labour led government making them happen.

"Under a Labour government it was great to see a full service hospital in Waitakere, double tracking and station upgrades which have got Waitakere moving. Our Waitakere Ranges are stunning. I was privileged to sponsor the Waitakere Ranges Heritage Area Act through Parliament - playing my part in protecting our unique environment" says Lynne. "I am committed to advocating for the people of Waitakere and challenging National's policies which undermine all that the Labour team worked for over nine years."

Over two terms Lynne has served on a number of Select Committees - Industrial Relations and Transport, Education and Science, Social Services and was the Chair of the Justice and Electoral Select Committee from 2005 - 2008.

In opposition Lynne is Labour's Spokesperson for Disability Issues and Associate Spokesperson Justice - Victim's Rights, and serves on the Justice and Electoral Select Committee.

 

Ashraf Choudhary MP

List MP

Ashraf is based in Manukau and has lived there since 2005. He was first elected to Parliament from Palmerston North where he lived for 30 years.

Before joining Parliament Dr. Choudhary was Assoc. Professor at Massey University. He earned his master's degree from the University of Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK and a PhD from Massey University. He has published a large number of scientific papers on conservative agriculture, and is considered to be an international authority on the subject.

He has also been closely involved with ethnic communities and has been President of the New Zealand Federation of Ethnic Councils and founding member and President of the Federation of Islamic Associations of New Zealand. Dr Choudhary is currently Patron of both the Council of Christian and Muslims and Bhartia Samaj Charitable Trust based in Auckland.

Because of his expertise, Ashraf has been a keen member of both the Primary Production Select Committee and the Education and Science Select Committee during his previous two terms in Parliament. He also chaired the Education and Science Select Committee in 2008.

Currently, Ashraf is the opposition spokesperson for Food Safety, Agricultural Sciences and Associate for Ethnic Affairs in the Parliament.

Ashraf takes pride in working for the ethnic communities and promotes fairness, equity and justice for all New Zealanders.

Darien Fenton MP

List MP

Darien Fenton is a second-term Labour List MP working in Auckland's North Shore for Labour.

She was raised in the Manawatu and studied at Victoria University. After living in India, where she taught music to Indian children and acted in Bollywood films, she returned to New Zealand, met her partner John and raised their son, Aisha in the Northland settlement of Maungakaramea.

Darien has lived in a variety of countries, including Hong Kong, the UK and India.
Her jobs have been many and varied, including working for Playcentre, being a self-employed music teacher, working at the Tower of London for the Master of Armouries in the UK and at the University of Auckland.

She became active in the union movement in the late 1980's and in 1997 was elected as the first woman Secretary of the Service and Food Workers Union, representing tens of thousands of New Zealanders working in hotels, hospitals, aged care, factories and schools.

She was also Vice President of the NZ Council of Trade Unions from 1999 - 2003 and was the Affiliates Vice President of the Labour Party from 2003 - 2005.

Since she has been in Parliament, she has continued her advocacy for low paid workers and their families. Darien is proud of Labour's record and she is determined to defend it.

"I have seen first hand the difference Labour made to the lives of ordinary people and particularly those who are low-paid and more vulnerable. I fear that a National-led government will mean these people bear the brunt of the changes they introduce and that's why I intend to keep fighting, even although Labour is in opposition for now" says Darien.

In her first parliamentary term, Darien served on the Health Select Committee, the Transport & Industrial Relations Select Committee, the Officers of Parliament Committee and was Deputy Chair of the Government Administration Committee.

In opposition, Darien is Labour's spokesperson for Transport Safety, and Associate spokesperson for Labour. She continues on the Transport and Industrial Relations Select Committee, as well as chairing the Labour/Unions Caucus.

Su’a William Sio MP

MP for Mangere

Su'a William Sio is based in Mangere, Manukau City a place he calls the Gateway to New Zealand. He won the Mangere seat convincingly in the 2008 general elections with a majority of 7126 votes. He first entered Parliament as a List MP in April 2008 after serving as Deputy Mayor and Councillor for the Otara Ward on Manukau City Council.

"My political mandate comes from the community and it's a stewardship which I treat with care," he says.

Born in Samoa, his family emigrated to New Zealand in May 1969. They settled in Otara where Su'a received his early education and began his political involvement in the community and the Labour Party.

Su'a is married with a young family. His matai title is from Matatufu village of the Lotofaga, Aleipata district in Upolu. He is a member of the extended family - Aiga Sa Aupito - which his father is the High Chief.

Su'a is currently on the Social Services Select Committee and is the Labour Party Spokesperson for Customs and Associate for Pacific Island Affairs and Local Government. Su'a has served previously on the Local Government and Environment and Education and Science Select Committees.

Jacinda Ardern MP

List MP

I'm proud to be a Labour Member of Parliament. I was elected in 2008 and have the privilege of serving as the opposition spokesperson for youth affairs and youth justice. I am also a member of the Justice and Electoral, and Regulations Review Select Committees, and currently represent Labour in the Waikato and Bay of Plenty region as a list MP.

I am the youngest Member of Parliament. Young people are in the age group that is least likely to vote, but are the most likely to be affected by the decisions we make in Parliament. Part of my job is to ensure we talk to young people more often about the issues that effect them, and make sure they have an opportunity to get involved in decision making

I've been involved in politics and the Labour party for 10 years. I joined the party because I wanted to help make New Zealand a fairer place, create opportunities for everyone, protect our environment, and maintain an independent and principled foreign policy. I want New Zealand to be a place we are all proud to call home.

Carol Beaumont MP

List MP

I am a proud Aucklander living in the electorate of Maungakiekie where I am an active Labour list MP with an office in Onehunga and in Panmure. I grew up in rural Waikato, went to school in Hamilton and Tauranga and completed a Bachelor of Social Sciences at Waikato University.
I grew up in a family where we struggled to make ends meet and I understand the stress this puts on families. My parents believed in a fair go for everyone, the importance of working hard and the value of education. These are the values that have shaped my life.

Due to an inspirational teacher I didn't leave school at 16 but ended up going to University and Teachers College. During my secondary and tertiary education I worked to support myself - as a cleaner, retail worker, kitchen hand and labourer. I first joined a union as a 16 year old cleaner and to this day I have always belonged to a union.

I have lived and worked in a number of places - Wellington, London and Sydney but Auckland is definitely home. My working life has also been varied - I have worked as a researcher, educator, advocate, manager and leader. My fulltime work has been in the community health sector and in the union movement here and overseas.

I am a passionate and experienced advocate for social justice who believes in fairness, opportunity, prosperity and sustainability. I have always been involved in representative and advocacy roles seeking to make positive change. I fully understand the importance of accountability to those you represent.

I have been politically active in unions, women's organisations, student groups, community health initiatives and the Labour party.

Before being elected to Parliament I worked for the NZ Council of Trade Unions, first establishing an Organising Centre in Auckland and then in a leadership role as the elected Secretary.

My areas of a responsibility as an MP are working in the Maungakiekie and Tamaki electorates and as our Spokesperson on Consumer Affairs and Associate Spokesperson on Labour.

For all New Zealanders I want to work to strengthen our democracy so people know how to build the New Zealand they want for their children and grandchildren.

Brendon Burns MP

MP for Christchurch Central

Brendon lives in Richmond, Christchurch with his wife, Philippa.

He trained as a journalist., working for 12 years in the Parliamentary Press Gallery - much of it for The Press. The Burns family have called the Mainland home since 1994, when Brendon became Editor of The Marlborough Express, leading various community initiatives and winning the country's top journalism award - a term at Cambridge University.

Brendon then twice stood in the Kaikoura seat for Labour before seeking the Christchurch Central nomination in 2007. He worked full-time for the next year to secure the seat for Labour at last year's election, replacing Tim Barnett.

As MP, his first task is doing all he can to protect and preserve Christchurch jobs as the recession bites. He's Labour's spokesman for Water and for Broadcasting and is on Parliament's Finance and Expenditure Committee.

Brendon is also active in promoting insulation for Christchurch homes and for reform of the liquor laws to reduce the crime and violence which 24-hour availability encourages.

" My goal as MP for Christchurch Central is to work hard for my constituents and do this wonderful electorate proud."

 

 

 

 

Clare Curran MP

MP for Dunedin South

I am so proud to be the new Labour member for Dunedin South. I will always do the very best I can to be a strong advocate for Dunedin, to represent the people and the communities that make up the Dunedin South electorate, and to be a strong, effective MP.

I am so proud of my campaign team for their hard work, dedication and determination which paid off in the strong result we achieved.

And I'm terribly proud of the constituents of Dunedin South who showed that Dunedin is truly Labour at heart.

The Labour Party is centred, united and in a strong position to re-group and build a focussed and committed team to achieve government again in three years. We are the Party with the grassroots organisation, the Party that truly represents New Zealand and the Party with the ideas and commitment to make a better, fairer life for all New Zealanders.

I have a simple philosophy that I try to live my life by which comes from the values that I grew up with. To try my hardest, to be the best I can possibly be; to do the right thing; and above all, to be true to myself.

That's why I stood for parliament. It's how I try to live my life and it's what I teach my children.

It's also what I will try to do as the Labour MP for Dunedin South.

Dunedin South Electorate office: 132 Hillside Road, South Dunedin | PO Box 2084 South Dunedin 

Kelvin Davis MP

List MP

Kelvin Davis was born and bred in Te Tai Tokerau and has lived there all his life apart from the time he spent training to be a teacher and the first three years of his teacing career when he taught in South Auckland.

Kelvin rose quickly through the teaching ranks becoming a Deputy principal after three years and a Principal after just six years teaching.

After only four years as a principal he was seconded as an Advisor to Principals and travelled around schools north of Whangarei offering policy advice, guidance and support to other Principals and Boards of Trustees.

This he followed up with a twelve month stint with the Ministry of Education before deciding it was time to get back into a school. In 2001 he became the Principal of Kaitaia Intermediate School which at the time had the reputation of being the school most at risk north of Auckland.

In 2004 Kelvin's work at kaitaia Intermediate School was recognised by him receiving a Woolf Fisher fellowship which enabled him to spend three months travelling the world and visiting schools.

His particular interest was indigenous education which enabled him to visit schools in Hawaii, US and Canadian reservation schools and Welsh Immersion schools in the UK.

The highlight of the fellowship being a two week School Leadership Course at Harvard University.

Kelvin is an sport adict. He played competitive club rugby until he was forty and will follow any sport.

He is married with three beautiful, intelligent, respectful children.

Kelvin is proud of his links to his hapu of Ngati Manu and he is most at home mucking around on his marae in Karetu in the Bay of Islands with his cousins, uncles and family.

Kelvin's move into politics came about because of his success as a Maori educator. He was very vocal in his community about the conditions necessary to ensure Maori achieve beyond their potential.

Kelvin enters politics with a focus on improving outcomes for Maori and believes education is the vehicle that will enable Maori to become fulfill their aspirations.

He believes that Treaty settlements are but the cream on the cake, and not the cake itself - he believes that education is that path that Maori need to take to enable us all to achieve greater health, wealth and happiness.

He believes Maori will struggle to assert any meaningful influence over the leadership and direction of Aotearoa/ New Zealand while we allow ourselves to languish academically.

 

 

 

Kelvin Davis MP

Chris Hipkins MP

MP for Rimutaka

I'm committed to a fairer New Zealand in which a strong economy gives all our families real opportunities and real choices, enables us to fund the best possible education and health systems, and build a nation that is safer, more inclusive and truly sustainable.

We need to work together to ensure that every New Zealander has the opportunity to reach their full potential.New Zealand has become a better place during Labour's time in office, but there are new challenges ahead. Labour has the best ideas and plans for the future, and I hope to bring some new energy to the task of changing our country for the better.

I'm a passionate New Zealander and I love the outdoors. I've worked in both the public and private sectors, here and overseas, and I'm an active member of my local community. I hope to be an approachable, visible and active representative for our community and our country.

Raymond Huo MP

List MP

Lawyer and journalist Raymond Huo came to New Zealand in 1994 from Beijing, China. Raymond has an extensive network of contacts throughout the Asian communities in both New Zealand and overseas. Formerly from Brookfields and Hesketh Henry, he has recently joined Queen City Law as a senior associate. He has also acted as an "on-call" bi-lingual lawyer for the NZ Customs Service since 2006.

Raymond has published seven books including two Chinese-English dictionaries as joint editor/translator. Tailored from Asian migrants, he writes bi-lingual legal columns in the ethnic media including Chinese-language websites. Raymond also hosts a news review show on Chinese radio. He holds a number of other positions in the community and is currently the Chairman of KiwiAsian Development Forum.

Raymond believes the Labour Party's vision of strong and inclusive communities is important to everyone given that it promotes understanding between the diverse groups that cal New Zealand home. His professional background and track record helps bridge the now Asian community and the wider communities.

Raymond is a committed family man and is married with two children. Raymond enjoys sports and classical music.

Iain Lees-Galloway MP

MP for Palmerston North

Iain was born in South Auckland and grew up in a farming community near Waiuku. In 1998 he moved to Palmerston North where he lives with his wife and two young children.

Before entering Parliament, Iain worked for the NZ Nurses Organisation. He says the gains made by nurses under the previous Labour Government were a result of a commitment from nurses to make use of political processes and a commitment from Labour to listen to and work with everyone in the community.

Iain believes families are the building blocks of strong communities and a strong economy. He says economic and social policy should support working families to raise healthy children, to get the most out of education and to get involved in their communities.

As well as being focussed on creating opportunities for our next generation, Iain says our children need to be assured that the environment they inherit will allow them to enjoy the lifestyle we take for granted. Iain says economic and environmental imperatives go hand in hand and that the opportunities for New Zealand to be a world leader in research and environmentally friendly technology must not be missed.

Stuart Nash MP

List MP

I'll always ask, ‘Is it right for our people, the people of New Zealand?', and if it is, I'll get stuck in and make it happen. Seven years of international travel as a businessman has convinced me that New Zealand is the best place in the world to live and bring up children, and I am hugely aspirational for New Zealand and all New Zealanders.

I have the skills and experience to handle the complexities of the 21st century and to get the job done. I am well educated and experienced in business, strategy, marketing, management and trade, with Master's degrees from Auckland and Canterbury Universities.

Before moving to Napier, I was the Director of Strategic Development at AUT University, working on solutions to address the issues facing our young people today. This is vitally important to the economic and social growth of our country.

As Malcolm X said "without education, you are not going anywhere in this world".

I have the passion, the energy, the ability and the vision to work hard and smart for the people of New Zealand and to keep Labour strong.

And my generation represents the next generation of political leadership - the generation of hope - as this country embraces the 21st century. I am confident with my experience and abilities that we will be able to handle the issues and challenges that are going to confront New Zealand in the future.

Dr Rajen Prasad MP

List MP

In the diverse roles I have had in my professional life in New Zealand, from working with individuals and families, to being the Race Relations Conciliator, a member of the Residence Review Board, and The Chief Families Commissioner, I have been privilegedto understand the aspirations and frustrations of many New Zealanders. These are the voices that will inform my work and I undertake to consult meaningfully with New Zealanders to keep abreast with their issues and suggestions.

I am committed to working for a society in which we aspire "to wipe every tear from every eye" and where we guarantee dignity and control by people over their destiny. Such a society will not emerge automatically from the operation of the market. It has to be carefully constructed in partnership with citizens.

I have an unshakeable belief in the value of an ethnically diverse society in which all our cultures are understood and respected, where discrimination of any kind is eliminated and where we are all enabled to participate in and contribute to the fullest extent.

I am committed to the view that families are the foundation of our society. They bring up our children, nurture them to adulthood, provide for its members, care for its elderly and pass knowledge from generation to generation. Therefore our families must be at the centre of every decision that affects them.

Finally I am committed to working for a strong economy as well as a fair society in which we are all successful.

Grant Robertson MP

MP for Wellington Central

Grant Robertson is Labour's MP for the Wellington Central. He won the seat at the 2008 election with a majority of 1904 votes. He is Labour's Spokesperson on State Services, Associate Spokesperson on Foreign Affairs and Arts, Culture and Heritage (including the National Library and Archives NZ).

Grant was driven to run for Parliament because of his belief in social justice, and opportunity for all people to achieve their potential. He was politicised by the damage he saw done to his community by legislation such as the Employment Contracts Act, which he experienced first hand working at a supermarket to pay his way through school and university.

At university Grant became involved in the campaign against user-pays in tertiary education, eventually becoming the President of the Otago University Students Association, and Vice President and then Co-President of the New Zealand University Students Association.

After NZUSA Grant managed the New Zealand aid programme in Samoa and represented New Zealand at the United Nations in New York. He returned to New Zealand to be an advisor for Marian Hobbs as Minister for the Environment, and then in the office of Prime Minister Helen Clark.

Immediately prior to being elected Grant was working as Research Business Manager for the University of Otago in Wellington. Grant is a former trustee of the New Zealand Aids Foundation.

He lives on the boundary of the suburbs of Northland and Wilton, with his civil union partner, Alf. Grant is a keen sports fan, particularly cricket, rugby and the mighty Wellington Phoenix. He is also a fan of New Zealand music and literature, and loves cooking and movies

Carmel Sepuloni MP

List MP

I am an educated young NZ born Pacific woman who was born and raised in small town NZ.

I believe I can offer the Labour Parliamentary team a valuable perspective on issues that affect New Zealanders. My personal commitment has always been to strive and advocate for equity, social justice and fairness. Life and work experience have taught me that in order to do this successfully, it is necessary to participate in all levels of decision making.

I am confident that my skills, values, vision and life experience will enable me to effectively serve the Labour Party and our diverse New Zealand communities.

Phil Twyford MP

List MP

I returned to New Zealand with partner Joanna and teenage son Harry in 2004. After living in the United States it was wonderful coming back to a New Zealand that is optimistic, confident, moving ahead on so many fronts, and sure of our place in the world.  I think a lot of the credit for that goes to the Labour-led Government of Helen Clark. Labour's prudent economic management has delivered economic growth that has allowed overdue investment in our infrastructure, established the superannuation fund that will give security to New Zealanders when they retire, and allowed significant new investments in health and education.

My years with Oxfam taught me some fundamental lessons. The first was our common humanity, I met struggling families in the suburbs giving a monthly cheque to help people they'd never met on the other side of the world. The second was the courage and innovation of people who were up against the odds. I met Ethiopian farmers running their own micro-credit schemes so they could work their way out of hunger. And third, I became convinced that high performing societies need capable government that works for all citizens.

For all these reasons, I am campaigning to return Labour to government, and win the seat of North Shore. I grew up on the Shore. My Mum raised five of us at Albany. I went to primary school in Glenfield and did my high school years at Westlake Boys'. The Shore offers a great quality of life and unquestionable beauty but it is feeling the strains of rapid growth and development. I want to serve the people of North Shore and work with them to tackle these challenges.

Hon Damien O’Connor MP

List MP

I was born in Westport and attended primary school there before going to St Bede's in Christchurch and Lincoln University.

Before becoming an MP, I worked in a variety of jobs in farming and tourism. During a five-year stint in Australia, I worked as a machinery operator and in sales. On my return to New Zealand I established Buller Adventure Tours, an adverture tourism company, which I owned and operated in a partnership.

I'm past president of the Buller Promotion Association, a member of the West Coast Tourism Development Group, a member of the West Coast Business Development Board and a founding director of Buller Community Development Company. I was also West Coast Young Farmer of the Year.

I'm an active sportsman and I've represented Buller at athletics. I'm a keen skier and like whitewater rafting, jetboating, and motorsports. I play rugby for the Parliamentary Team.

I was elected to Parliament in 1993 as MP for the West Coast, and became MP for West Coast-Tasman in 1996. I was Labour spokesperson on Tourism and Racing from 1996 till 1999 and chaired the Primary Production Select committee and was a member of the Health Select Committee from 1999 till 2002.

I'm currently Labour's pokesperson for Rural Affairs, Spokesperson for Biosecurity and Associate Spokesperson for Agriculture.