MPs joins Jones’ cross-party at Waitangi
MPs from across the political divide have descended on Waitangi just in time for NZ First MP Shane Jones’ pre-Waitangi bash.
The annual event is renowned for attracting hundreds of people from across the country as politicians, lobbyists, diplomats, public servants, chief executives and the media gear up for two big days at Waitangi.
Party colours don’t seem to matter at Jones’ place – himself a former Labour Party minister, now NZ First MP and minister in a Labour-led government.
National Party finance spokesman Steven Joyce brought along a big contingent of MPs; in previous years, only a couple have attended but this year more than a dozen made the trek north.
The networking opportunities for those present are almost, but not quite, as good as the food on offer. Jones has plenty of help to ensure the best kaimoana is served – think crayfish, paua, mussels.
MPs pitch tents on his Kerikeri front lawn and stay over as the party rolls on late into the evening.
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern and her partner Clarke Gayford were there, as was Deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters and Greens co-leader James Shaw.
Ardern joked she was only present for the food, ‘‘not the booze, obviously’’, and congratulated the hosts on their recent nuptials.
She said the party grew bigger each time and perhaps its size this year had something to do with them being ‘‘in government’’.
Today, MPs from all parties will be welcomed onto the upper marae at the Treaty grounds before the party leaders take turns at meeting with iwi leaders to discuss Ma¯ ori issues and plans for the year.
Governor-General Dame Patsy Reddy and a number of diplomats were the first to be welcomed on Saturday at their own powhiri.