‘Increase stock of state houses’
Marama Davidson, 43. Green Party candidate for Tamaki Makaurau, lives in Manurewa.
In the lead up to the general election, we go behind the billboards and party colours to give you a ‘first person’ insight into the aspiring candidates.
We are publishing their images in black and white so you can get to see them as people not just as politicians and their political brands.
Getting candid: How long have you lived here and where are you originally from?
I have lived in Manurewa off and on for about 15 years.
Give me three words that come to mind when I say ‘South Auckland’?
Grassroots. Connected. Awesome.
Where’s the best place to buy dinner in your electorate?
My local fish and chip shop next to the Mobil petrol station at The Gardens.
What’s one piece of wisdom you’d like to pass on to others, particularly young people?
If you make a mistake, own it and make amends but don’t waste your time regretting it.
What’s one trial or struggle that you’ve overcome?
The heartbreak of having to leave my children all the time to be a Member of Parliament. It always hurts but we’re managing well now.
Who is the Kiwi you admire most - and why?
Apart from mymum– [former Green Party co-leader and current Green Party MP] Metiria Turei. For being brave enough to force us to all face the truth about poverty.
When I’ve got a free few hours I like to…
Walk our gorgeous dog especially in the bush. Sleep and watch a Netflix tv series.
Tell us what your party’s policies will do for people in this community?
The Green Party will build more state homes instead of selling then off.
We will make sure Auckland and Manukau have enough emergency places to meet help end homelessness.
We will have aWOF (warrant of fitness) so that homes are safe and dry and healthy.
We will build homes for a government-led rent-to-buy scheme so that low income families can buy their own home.
We will have free public transport for everyone under 18 years old and for people with a disability.
We will have free off-peak public transport for students and apprentices.
We will help clean up our waterways and take real action on climate change.
A party vote for the Green Party will ensure a compassionate, smart, progressive heart in government.
‘‘We will build homes for a government lead rent to buy scheme so that low income families can buy their own home.’’
Marama Davidson entered Parliament in 2015 when former Green Party co-leader Russel Norman resigned. She worked for 10 years at the Human Rights Commission and is a founding member of the Te Wharepora Hou Maori Women’s Collective. Go to Facebook.com/ themanukaucourier to read more general election versions of our regular Look Who’s Talking feature with South Auckland political candidates.