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Solomon Tipene - Source: ONE News -
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Whangarei man Solomon Tipene has been confirmed as the Maori Party's new candidate for Te Tai Tokerau.
The announcement was made at the Hoani Waititi Marae in West Auckland this morning.
Tipene is a party official but will now go head-to-head with Hone Harawira and Labour's Kelvin Davis in next month's by-election.
He is a great-grandfather with more than 40 years of public service in Maori organisations and local government.
Maori Party president Pem Bird said Tipene impressed them with his sharp intellect and breadth of knowledge of kaupapa Maori, adding that Te Tai Tokerau needs an MP who can work constructively to find solutions for its people.
"His humility is remarkable, given the breadth of experience he has across a vast range of public and private agencies - but it is certainly a quality that is to be much admired," he said.
"Te Tai Tokerau is at a crucial period of their journey" said Bird.
"They need someone to represent their interests, who can deliver on aspirations, and achieve change by seeking constructive solutions which include all of the peoples of Te Tai Tokerau in their approach.
"I am confident with Solomon at the helm, this electorate will reap the benefit of an MP who can place the priorities for Te Tai Tokerau firmly and squarely on Government's programme".
The Maori Party selected Tipene ahead of Maori actor and broadcaster Waihoroi Shortland and Mere Mangu, who has contested the seat as an independent in previous elections.
Former Maori Party MP Harawira forced the by-election when he resigned from parliament.
Maori voters go to the polls on June 25.
