Four people are vying for the chance to take the reins of the Labour Party and bring it back from one of its worst election losses in history.
The four candidates – Grant Robertson, Nanaia Mahuta, Andrew Little and David Parker – are currently travelling across the country meeting with party members to convince them why they're the best to take Labour's top job.
As part of the 3 News coverage of the race, the candidates were given a list of 10 questions to answer.
Andrew Little is today's candidate, followed by David Parker tomorrow. Nanaia Mahuta and Grant Robertson's answers were published earlier this week.
What do you believe went wrong for Labour in the election?
Voters didn't have a clear view about what we stand for. When our stocks have been low, we offered too many big ideas. We did not run an effective party vote campaign at all.
Why are you the best person to lead Labour?
I have a proven track record of leading change in a large organisation. I have a well-developed sense of strategy. Caucus members know I deal with them equally and without fear or favour. I know the party organisation well from my time as party president and I can assist with the changes needed there.
What has been your best moment as an MP?
Organising to defeat the National Party private member's Bill intended to undermine lawful industrial action.
What has been your worst moment as an MP?
The time wasted dealing with Judith Collins' fruitless lawsuit against Trevor Mallard and me.
Where is your favourite hidden spot in your hometown? Why is it so great?
Wai-iti beach (north of New Plymouth, but a beach New Plymouth folks go to). It's a good, flat beach with great waves and set against white cliffs.
If elected, what will your first priority be?
Sort out caucus roles and set up programme for the first part of next year for getting out and meeting New Zealanders in their communities.
What's your idea of the perfect summer holiday?
Somewhere near the sea, BBQs every night, reading until late in the evening.
What is your long-term vision for the Labour Party?
To lead the country through the next wave of economic and social change in a way that means those who are able and willing to work have good, secure work earning a decent income and that means we reduce the inequality gap.
What is one skill or talent you have that not many people know about?
I bake a mean carrot cake.
When did you know you wanted to get into politics?
When I realised that we were negotiating with companies over an ever-reducing share of the nation's wealth and under rules that were less and less fair to working people.
3 News
source: newshub archive
