The new Tāmaki Makaurau MP Oriini Kaipara delivered a powerful maiden speech in parliament on Thursday. It was followed by waiata and a breakout haka led by a supporter caught up in the moment. For his efforts, the speaker of the house suspended parliament.
Following the maiden speech, the leadership of Te Pāti Māori fronted up to the media - hoping to lay to rest the fractures that have recently emerged. But the press conference lasted just a few minutes before they walked away.
Rawiri Waititi later told RNZ's Mata programme the party has been in the weeds, responding to attacks on Te Tiriti, waahine, rainbow communities, unions and the environment.
Waititi and fellow co-leader, Debbie Ngarewa-Packer speak to Mihingarangi Forbes about the reset - and address the recent criticism.
Te Pāti Māori co-leaders Debbie Ngarewa-Packer (2nd from right) and Rawiri Waititi (far right) celebrate Oriini Kaipara's win in the Tāmaki Makaurau by-election on 6 September 2025. Photo: RNZ / Lillian Hanly
