Waiariki electorate candidates will take the stage at the War Memorial Hall Little Theatre in Whakatāne tomorrow 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 — New Zealand Labour Party

·         Tania Waikato — Green Party of Aotearoa New Zealand

·         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 currently talking with 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 with light refreshments served prior to the debate starting at 7.30pm. Seating is limited to 270.

Āio Media will livestream the debate from 7pm on Te Puna Ora o Mataatua and Pūkāea social media channels.