Waiariki electorate candidates will take the stage at the Little Theatre at War Memorial Hall in Whakatāne on October 22 for a public debate on the issues shaping the future of whānau, hapū and iwi across the electorate.

The event will give voters a direct opportunity to compare how each candidate plans to represent Waiariki, and turn party policy into meaningful local action across its diverse urban, rural and coastal communities.

The candidates are:

■ Rawiri Waititi – Te Pāti Māori (incumbent)

■ Toni Boynton – Labour Party

■ Tania Waikato – Green Party

■ Pāpā Wharewera – The Opportunity Party

Candidates will be challenged to set out clear, practical commitments on a range of issues including cost of living, housing, Te Tiriti, health and education.

Pūkāea reporters are talking to voters across the electorate about the issues that matter most to them. Their voices, including those of voters in Murupara, can be heard on Pūkāea Facebook.

The debate is a collaboration between Pūkāea, a regional Mataatua media organisation, and Te Puna Ora o Mataatua, a Whānau Ora-centred hauora service.

Kaapua Smith will moderate the debate, with Pūkāea journalist Mahina Perenara as MC.

Doors open at 6.45pm and the debate begins at 7.30pm. Light refreshments will be served prior to the debate. Tio Media will livestream the debate on Te Puna Ora o Mataatua and Pūkāea social media channels.