By WAYNE THOMPSON
Manukau City mayoral candidates were quizzed last night on why they should expect the Maori vote, when they faced more than 170 people at a hui in Mangere.
The hui, organised by the Maori Party, was challenged by party co-leader Dr Pita Sharples to "make a stand" by voting in the local body elections.
Dr Sharples said Manukau was a city of contrasts, with affluent and poor areas.
"Does that worry you and what are you going to do about it?"
Candidate Len Brown said he offered a vision for the future.
Libraries and swimming pools would remain free and appropriate public transport would be provided.
Leadership would tackle the problem of dying townships and poor quality housing.
Dick Quax said rates had risen 50 per cent in a decade.
Rates were being used for the wrong purposes as the council tried to "redistribute your wealth, or otherwise".
Mr Quax said people from Mangere, Otara and Manurewa were among the 62 per cent of citizens who had joined him in opposing the Pacific Arena project in Wiri.
Mike Padfield said he opposed user charges for libraries and swimming pools because they would shut out youngsters.
"The most pressing need is not roads, not rubbish but our young people," he said to applause.
He said he could easily reduce rates but his passion was to get the community to embrace education and fill the jobs coming up for young people who could read and write.
Paul Teio said the mayor must consult and listen to the people to avoid such problems as substandard buildings, traffic congestion and stiff charges for car parking.
Ted Faleauto said Pacific Island people formed a permanent underclass in the city and must put pressure on politicians to provide better facilities and bus services.
"Make them realise that if they want your vote, they won't get it cheaply."
Manukau Mayor Sir Barry Curtis, who is seeking re-election, was absent because of illness.
Herald Feature: Local Vote 2004
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