Labour Leader Fartoomuchpressure launched his campaign for the seat of Manukau this afternoon at the Manukau Event Centre

“I suppose I shall have less difficulty introducing myself this time than I did when I was here three months ago to launch my first campaign. Though many of you will know me as the Prime Minister of New Zealand, I’ll be most of you think of me first as your local MP. Despite my demanding workload I have always found time to get involved with community events.
“In this election, the three existing electorates have become nine, and so each of the sitting MPs have moved to smaller electorates. I have chosen to represent Manukau, an area which has always been close to my heart. I stand in the shoes of many great people as the Labour candidate for Manukau. A smaller electorate also allows me to focus more on the community. Being MP for the entirety of Auckland is a bit like being Deputy Mayor, I cannot be engaged on the intimate level with such a large electorate, but in a smaller electorate, I hope to be a stronger part of the community.
“In the last parliament, our government was able to bring about many important changes for the people of Manukau. In particular, our tax package has put money into the pockets of all families, which has been a great help to those struggling Additionally, our changes to the student allowance have made tertiary education in all its forms a true possibility more many young people in Manukau.
“When people talk derisively about Auckland, they often fail to understand both the difficulties and pleasures of the city. I think the people of Manukau understand these two aspects of life in Auckland particularly well. Of the three Auckland electorates, Manukau is the poorest, but it is also one of the most diverse and vibrant parts of the country. As I local I understand life in this part of the city and I believe I am well equipped to represent it. “The Labour Party’s plans for the next parliamentary term contain a number of plans that will greatly benefit the people of Manukau, in particular, our transport plan. Light rail from the airport to the CBD as well as an improved public transport system will benefit southern Auckland significantly. Additionally, our health plan and especially our initiatives to tackle the obesity epidemic will be a great help to the people of Manukau.
“As your MP, I will continue to represent you as best I can. With local knowledge and love of the area, I can assure you that I will do everything I can to make sure that people’s voices are heard in parliament. I thank you for your continued support.”