Te Pāti Māori launches 2026 election campaign

Te Pāti Māori has officially launched its 2026 election campaign with a gathering at Te Poho o Rāwiri Marae in Gisborne. The event, which drew a diverse crowd of supporters including kaumātua, rangatahi, and whānau, served to introduce the party’s strategic approach for the upcoming elections.

Co-leader Debbie Ngarewa-Packer outlined an ‘electorate-first’ strategy, urging voters to prioritize candidate votes to increase Māori representation in Parliament. She expressed confidence in the party's ability to act as an independent Māori voice, suggesting that the growing number of Māori on the electoral roll provides the power to influence the current coalition government.

Co-leader Rāwiri Waititi further explained the tactical importance of the candidate vote, contrasting their approach with other parties that seek both candidate and party votes. The campaign also highlighted specific contests, such as the Te Tai Tokerau seat, as part of their broader effort to mobilize grassroots support.