Welcome home for Flavell

Waiariki MP Te Ururoa Flavell (centre) is welcomed on to Te Papaiouru Marae as a mark of respect for his new position as Minister for Maori Development. Photo / Stephen Parker

Te Ururoa Flavell received a special welcome in Rotorua yesterday as members of Te Arawa and Ngati Whakaue honoured him for his new roles in Parliament.

The Waiariki MP was recently appointed Minister for Maori Development, Minister for Whanau Ora and Associate Minister of Economic Development.

He is co-leader of the Maori Party with list MP Marama Fox.

Mr Flavell was in town to lead a number of hui as he meets with iwi around the country to discuss issues affecting Maori.

Mr Flavell and his wife Erana were officially welcomed on to Te Papaiouru Marae in Ohinemutu yesterday afternoon.

Te Arawa and Ngati Whakaue kaumatua Pihopa Kingi said it was important to acknowledge Mr Flavell for his achievements.

"As he is now the Minister for Maori Development, and as such, the Te Arawa Confederation of Tribes welcomed him under this new standing, along with his wife.

"Te Ururoa has been a frequent visitor to Tamatekapua and St Faith's over the years but his appointment as minister puts him into a higher category, which he deserves."

"It was a great honour and privilege for me to be honoured like this in my home city," Mr Flavell said.

He would be meeting with people involved with Whanau Ora, Maori business and Te Puni Kokiri (Ministry of Maori Development) staff.