Little: McAnulty the guy Labour needs

IN TOWN: Labour leader Andrew Little (left) and Kieran McAnulty, outside theTimes-Age office. PHOTO/LYNDA FERINGA WTA190215LFLABOUR01

Labour Party stalwart Kieran McAnulty remains on the "priority list" for team Labour as its leader builds up the party profile across New Zealand.

Labour leader Andrew Little was touring Wairarapa yesterday with Mr McAnulty, on a meet-and-greet with the public and businesses.

Last year Mr McAnulty lost his election bid for the Wairarapa seat, resoundingly reclaimed for National by newcomer Alastair Scott, despite Labour picking Wairarapa as a "marginal" seat for the government.

Mr Little said they were still keen to see Mr McAnulty in Parliament.

"He's got a lot to offer," said Mr Little. "I'm going to be working closely with him over the next three years.

"He's from the community, he's grounded here, he's just the sort of guy we need."

Mr McAnulty's fortunes in the election could easily reflect those of Labour, and Mr Little was upfront about it.

"Even in 2011, there was a level of disillusionment," he said. "I was surprised at the result [in 2014], the feel was quite good, then there was the result on election night.

"We had to take time, and do a bit of soul-searching.

"We weren't ready for government."

He said the challenge for the next three years was to understand what the issues were, and be ready to work with election partners.

His other challenge - backing up a commitment he had made - was to get around the towns and cities in New Zealand.

"Labour needs more outreach, more meet-and-greet, reconnecting Labour."

He said the year's aim was to get around every town of a critical size, and every city.

His schedule for Wairarapa and Tararua included meeting Masterton mayor Lyn Patterson, a catch-up with party faithful at Masterton community centre, and a tour at the Fonterra plant in Pahiatua.

Talent-spotting is also on the agenda.

"It's meeting people who are keen and enthusiastic."

His thoughts on Masterton is that it "continues to be a place where job prospects are an issue.

"Masterton's challenges are much the same as the rest of New Zealand."