In the run-up to the NZ election, we are profiling our Green Party candidates and sharing their messages with Kiwis around the world. Today we have a message from Teanau Tuiono, candidate for Manurewa and number 16 on our list.
Current Role:
Political candidate number 16. I see this as an extension of the organising that I’ve been doing on social justice and environmental issues.
My Area Of Passion:
Indigenous Rights in the context of the environment
My Number One Goal in Government:
Sorting out climate change is up there but so is eliminating poverty. I am from the Te Uriroroi hapū so protecting the Poroti springs would also feature. I would like to support the revitalisation of Pasifika languages from the realm countries as well. So many issues! I can’t pick one. I will do them all!
My favourite thing about being a Kiwi:
There is a song by Trinity Roots called “Home, Land and Sea”, for me it encapsulates how I feel about Aotearoa on many levels. I like it because I feel that is neither nationalist or patriotic but instead asks us how we connect more deeply to this place we call home in more fundamental tones. I am definitely Iwi before I’m a Kiwi in that respect.
One lesson we can learn from overseas:
Most of the world speaks more than one language. Learn te reo Māori. It grounds us to the place and history of Aotearoa it is a part of who we are.
My favourite place overseas:
Paris, France – I lived there, I dig that city.
My favourite place in New Zealand:
Cuba street, Wellington.
My message for International Kiwis:
Keep New Zealand Green for reals! Party Vote Green fam!
Follow Teanau on Facebook here.
kiwigreensglobal.wordpress.com 