I believed we as Māori needed greater representation within council, I saw two Māori faces and the other councillors seemed unapproachable to me because I couldn't relate to them. This was the reason why I decided to stand for council, to provide our whānau with someone who looked and thought like them, someone relatable and easy to approach. A representative who had their best interests in mind, a Māori, just like them.
I was raised by kaumātua and whānau, growing up on marae while witnessing the intricate procedures that aren't too different from a business or a government agency. Each role defined by the strength of an individual while working together as a cohesive unit, these are the skills and ideals I will bring to council because this is what I was raised to do.
Student
Retaruke
44
I believed we as Māori needed greater representation within council, I saw two Māori faces and the other councillors seemed unapproachable to me because I couldn't relate to them. This was the reason why I decided to stand for council, to provide our whānau with someone who looked and thought like them, someone relatable and easy to approach. A representative who had their best interests in mind, a Māori, just like them.
I was raised by kaumātua and whānau, growing up on marae while witnessing the intricate procedures that aren't too different from a business or a government agency. Each role defined by the strength of an individual while working together as a cohesive unit, these are the skills and ideals I will bring to council because this is what I was raised to do.
Student
Retaruke
44
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