As a mother, and a constituent MP with 20 plus years’ experience who has come from ‘flax-root’ politics, Hon Nanaia Mahuta remains connected to the aspirations of people from all walks of life. Those who work hard for a living so that their children can do better, kaumatua, tradespeople, those who aspire to own their home, those who own small businesses and those who lead a range of services and organisations and huge iwi entities.
During her time in Parliament, Nanaia supported policies and initiatives that built the capacity of communities, especially social service organisations, greater investment in education, employment and training opportunities particularly for young people, supported the continuation of the Treaty settlement process and supported specific initiatives that lift the wellbeing and opportunities for young mums and those who are vulnerable and victims of abuse.
Nanaia is a tribal member of Waikato-Tainui, Ngati Maniapoto and Ngati Manu and her parliamentary experience has enabled her to contribute to the collective aspirations of Maori and all New Zealanders.
In the 2020 Labour Government, under Jacinda Ardern’s leadership, Nanaia became the first woman to hold the Foreign Affairs portfolio. She was also Minister of Local Government, and Associate Minister for Maori Development.