Labour list MP Shane Jones has spoken in support of current leader Phil Goff after a poll showed Maori support for Labour at an all-time low.
The Te Karere Digipoll of 1000 voters in the Maori seats found only 18% approved of Mr Goff's performance, while 59% said he does not provide good leadership on Maori issues.
Even among Labour voters, he could muster only 36% support.
Mr Jones told Waatea News that Mr Goff had not been able to overcome the way his speech last year attacking National's deal with the Maori Party on its emissions trading scheme, was interpreted.
He said Mr Goff had a difficult job leading the Opposition after nine years in government, and there was nothing biased or racist about him whatsoever.
