Forestry and cyclone recovery among portfolios for newly elected Labour MP

A109 Light Utility Helicopter flight with mayor Gisborne City from the air in November 2023.

Newly elected Labour MP for Ikaroa-Rāwhiti MP Cushla Tangaere-Manuel has been appointed her party’s spokesperson for tourism and hospitality, forestry  and cyclone recovery.

Chris Hipkins, in his new role as Leader of Opposition, said Labour had a strong line-up with experience and energy.

“There are six women and four men in the top 10. It is a diverse line-up and the front bench includes portfolios like climate change and children.

“Our Labour Party team is highly experienced and energised and looking forward to getting back to Parliament.

“The election didn’t go Labour’s way and we have work to do to make sure Kiwis know and feel that Labour backs them.

“With the start this coalition has had, it’s clear New Zealanders will need an Opposition that stands up for their values and what is right.

“Unfortunately, we’ve already seen a lack of moral compass in the coalition’s approach.

“This Labour team doesn’t just have experience, it has values and cares about all New Zealanders — not just a few,” Mr Hipkins said.