Fox takes over at helm of Maori Party

Tariana Turia (right) formally handed over her co-leadership of the Maori Party to Marama Fox at Whangaehu Marae on Saturday. PHOTO/LEWIS GARDNER

The Maori Party's new MP Marama Fox has been elected as the party's new female co-leader - marking the end of an era for the party.

Mrs Fox was confirmed as co-leader at the party's annual meeting in Wanganui on Saturday, replacing Tariana Turia, who founded and led the party for its first decade.

Te Ururoa Flavell took over as male co-leader from Pita Sharples last year.

Accepting the position, Mrs Fox paid tribute to Mrs Turia and Dr Sharples.

"Today we let go of one stage of our party and start another stage."

She also mounted a strong defence of the decision to work with National, saying it did not mean the Maori Party was any weaker.

"This party and no other party advocates for Maori self-determination and rangitiritanga.

"This party and no other party in government today."

She said Mrs Turia had been an inspiration to her since crossing the floor on the Foreshore and Seabed Act in 2003.

"She crossed the floor and we followed her - and we're all still here."

Ms Fox has been appointed the party's whip and said she was learning fast.

"No matter what happens in government, I will always advocate for our people. I might get things wrong but my heart will always be in the right place."

A raft of other positions on the national council also changed hands, after vice-presidents Ken Mair and Donna Gardiner stepped down.

Bayden Barber was elected to replace Mr Mair as male vice-president. Mr Barber is involved in Maori development and the health sector as deputy chairman of Health Hawke's Bay PHO.

On Friday night, an emotional Mrs Turia also gave a farewell, saying Maori did not need to be in Parliament to be political.

"I'll be as political outside Parliament, as I was even before I went there."

She said Hone Harawira was also proof of that.