Radio New Zealand - Te Reo Irirangi o Aotearoa

Maori and Mana party representatives meet

Updated at 9:03 am on 8 July 2011

Maori Party President Pem Bird says it will be at least two weeks before it is clear whether the Maori Party and the new Mana Party can agree to work together.

Mana is now in Parliament as its leader, Hone Harawira, won the Te Tai Tokerau by-election following his departure from the Maori Party.

Representatives from the two parties met on Thursday night.

Former MPs John Tamihere and Willie Jackson arranged the meeting in what Mr Jackson described as an attempt to get the best outcome for Maori generally.

Mr Bird said Mr Jackson was candid and honest, and provided details of how Mana sees its relationship with his party, including things like which electorates they might stand for.

He said the meeting proceeded with good grace shown by both sides.

Mr Bird said the Maori Party national council will meet on Sunday to discuss the session.

Listen to more from Maori Party President Pem Bird on Morning Report

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