Korako announces retirement
National Party backbench MP Nuk Korako has announced his retirement, opting to depart within the month.
The list MP, based in the Port Hills electorate of Christchurch, has long held a position on the board of Nga¯ i Tahu and holds several respected positions within Ma¯ oridom. It’s likely he is also stepping aside to make way for new talent, as all parties look to rejuvenate ahead of an election.
National party leader Simon Bridges thanked Korako, saying: ‘‘He is highly regarded by his local community, his colleagues and iwi. Nuk was instrumental as chair of the National party Ma¯ ori caucus in developing Ma¯ ori capability within the . . . party. He established the regional Kahurangi National Ma¯ ori Groups and will continue this work.’’
Korako said it had been a privilege to work for the Port Hills community.
‘‘We have shared some trying times together. The earthquakes, the Port Hills fires and the recent terror attack. I leave knowing our community has grown together and become stronger . . . Since 2017 it has also been a privilege to be the party’s spokesperson for Ma¯ ori development and Treaty of Waitangi negotiations. I’m especially proud to have chaired the Ma¯ ori Affairs Select Committee – shepherding 16 Treaty settlements to a conclusion.’’
He said he wanted to retire now so a new candidate had time to bed in before the election.
‘‘I expect National to do well in the 2020 race for Port Hills and I will be there to support the new candidate.’’
Because Korako is a list MP, his departure will not trigger a by-election.
While the party can get to work selecting a candidate for the Port Hills electorate race – currently held by senior Labour MP Ruth Dyson – the next available MP on its list, Paulo Garcia, would replace Korako.
Korako is set to deliver his valedictory speech on May 1.