Labour leader Jacinda Ardern has been rewarded by voters with a landslide win — delivering her power in her own right, and an absolute drubbing to the National Party.
Northcote's new MP Shanan Halbert is dedicating his win to his beloved father, who he lost tragically yesterday morning after he kept his promise to stay alive until election day.
His dad, Winston Halbert, 80, died yesterday morning. He was diagnosed with terminal lung cancer in October last year.
Speakingto the Herald this morning, the new Labour MP - who will enter Parliament after winning the seat of Northcote from National's Dan Bidois - said the last words he shared with his dad were over the phone on Friday evening.
Northcote MP Shanan Halbert farewells his biggest champion.
"I was able to tell him it looked good, we had our fingers crossed and I reiterated to him how important he was to me and I've always said that this campaign was for him."
Later in life Winston Halbert switched careers and trained as a teacher, sharing his wisdom with others including his son.
"Dad had been a part of all my campaigns, two that were not successful but he was very proud this time round, so it was good to get that result last night.
"We call it finishing off one kaupapa before starting another."
The Labour MP was catching a flight from Auckland to Napier this morning to be with his family and farewell his dad. They will gather at Omahu Marae today. A funeral is being held on Tuesday.
