20 Jan 2014

Process to replace Sharples starts

7:53 pm on 20 January 2014

The Maori Party has begun the process of finding a replacement for Pita Sharples to stand in Tamaki Makaurau.

Party officials held a hui on Sunday night to discuss how the electorate will conduct its selection process for a new candidate.

Dr Sharples, who has had the seat since 2005, will not stand at this year's general election. He resigned as party co-leader in July last year.

In 2013, the party resolved to allow electorates to carry out their own selection process. However, it has to be approved by a national panel before getting the green light.