This morning, former MP dyljam launched his campaign for Northland at Morningside Park in Morningside, Whangarei. He addressed a large crowd of supporters, volunteers and locals interested to see what Labour have to offer.

"Thank you everyone for coming out here this morning. It's looking a little cloudy, so I promise I won't keep you for longer than I have to. I've come out of retirement this election, because we cannot risk a National majority government!"

Those in the audience emblazoned with red 'dyljam4Northland' t-shirts cheer, as do many locals not affiliated with any party.

"In this election, I am the only left-of-centre candidate running for Northland. I am the only candidate who can stand up against National's regressive taxation plans and their reactionary conservatism approach to policy. It is important that progressive policy is represented in parliament, and in the government. We do not want a right-wing echo chamber for a government."

More cheers are heard from the audience

"There are plenty of things that I would like to achieve if I am given the honour of representing Northland in Wellington. But in particular, I'm passionate about improving education, health, housing and transport outcomes for the whole of our country, but particularly here in Northland. The Labour Party is the only party which has consistently fought for better education outcomes. It's in our blood. And if we are re-elected into government, we will continue to increase funding to our schools, to ensure that our kids are equipped with the skills needed for the future."

The crowd erupts into applause

"Are there any teachers here today?"

Several people raise their hands, dyljam steps down from his soapbox to a woman towards the front of the audience

"What's your name?"

The woman replies that her name is Jenny

"It's a pleasure to meet you Jenny. How many years have you been teaching for?"

Jenny replies "Just coming up to 25 years"

"Wow, I want to thank you for your service Jenny, can we give Jenny a round of applause?"

The crowd once more erupts into applause

"Jenny, if you don't mind me asking, do you believe that schools are equipped to teach our kids the skills they need for the future?"

Jenny replies "They're much better equipped now than what they were. We're very grateful for what the Labour-Green government has done. But there's still room for improvement."

"Thank you very much, Jenny. And I want to promise you and all the other people here, that Labour will continue to increase funding to our schools. We will also provide further support to early education. Because we know it's important to ensure kids have the tools they need to learn at a young age."

More clapping

"Now I want to talk about health. Labour supports the right for all New Zealanders to have access to world-class healthcare when they need it, where they need it. But we know that National does not place the same importance on our nation's healthcare that we do."

The audience makes boo-ing sounds at the mention of National's healthcare policies, or lack thereof.

"So, if National does form government. We will oppose any attempts to decrease the amount of funding that we give to our health system."

A loud wave of cheers and applause begins before dyljam can finish his sentence.

"That's right. We will fight for New Zealand's healthcare system. And we will fight for the right of all Kiwis to have the very best healthcare available, regardless of their bank balance or their socio-economic status. And you know who else we'll support? Paramedics."

More thunderous applause from the audience.

"Is anyone here a paramedic?"

It does not appear as though anyone in the audience is a paramedic, but a gentlemen towards the front of the group says that his partner is a paramedic.

"Sorry I missed that, your partner is a paramedic?"

The man confirms.

"Well I'll talk to you then if you don't mind. What's your name sir?"

The man in question replies that his name is Michael.

"Thank you for coming here today, Michael. What's your partner's name?

Michael replies that his partner's name is Jason.

"Do you feel that paramedics are adequately protected whilst on the job?"

Michael replies that he doesn't, and that he is concerned for Jason, particularly when he is working the night shift.

"Well I tell you what, Michael, if Labour is elected we will ensure that paramedics are protected on the job. It doesn't matter where in the country they are. Paramedics perform an invaluable service for our community, and we will ensure that they are protected."

More applause sweeps over the audience

"And make sure to thank Jason for me for his service to our community."

"Teachers, nurses, doctors, and paramedics all perform an invaluable service for our community. How 'bout a round of applause for them - people like Jenny and Jason."

A loud cheer is heard, and more applause.

"This election, make sure to vote! Make sure your voice is heard! Make sure that you vote Labour!"

Music plays, applause is heard, and dyljam steps off of his upturned milk crate to speak to locals