Māori Party's Rawiri Waititi to replace John Tamihere as co-leader

Rawiri Waititi. Photo / File

By RNZ

The Māori Party has confirmed Rawiri Waititi as its new co-leader, pending special votes confirming his win in the Waiariki electorate seat.

Waititi edged out the Labour Party MP Tamati Coffey in the Bay of Plenty-based seat, in something of an election upset.

John Tamihere. Photo / File

The Māori Party confirmed the move at its Special General Meeting last night.

Waititi replaces John Tamihere as the party's co-leader, joining Debbie Ngarewa-Packer.

Ngarewa-Packer thanked Tamihere for his service, and said she was looking forward to working with Waititi.