Labour leader Phil Goff says he's looking forward to list MP Shane Jones taking on the Maori Party leader Pita Sharples in Tamaki Makaurau this year.
Waatea News reports Mr Jones is the front-runner for the nomination, after standing twice in the general seat of Northland.
Mrs Goff says despite the damage done to Mr Jones last year when details of his ministerial expenses were released, the former Maori Fisheries Commission chair has a bright future in politics and is one of a new generation of Maori leaders.
Mr Goff says Labour is also rebuilding its relationship with Ratana, with four of its candidates having links to the movement.
