Dale Husband Rawiri Waititi Reflects on Loss, Resilience, and the Road Ahead for Te Pāti MāoriRole Funding:Te Pāti Māori co-leader Rawiri Waititi is reflecting on a challenging start to the year, marked by loss, extreme weather, and internal political tensions – while reaffirming the party’s commitment to its kaupapa and communities as it looks toward the 2026 election. The year began with the passing of respected Te Whānau a Apanui educationalist Dr Tuihana Pook, who died last week following a long illness. Waititi says Dr Pook’s legacy is deeply felt, describing her as a tireless advocate for Māori education and cultural survival. Waititi is calling for long-term investment that prioritises Māori communities and moves beyond short-term fixes. Waititi acknowledges tensions but says robust debate is not new within Māori political movements.