National u-turns on Māori seats policy

Published: Feb. 1, 2021, 4:44 a.m.

The National Party has reversed a long held position to not stand candidates in the Māori seats. It has held various stances over the years - including to abolish the seats altogether in the mid 2000s under the leadership of Don Brash. Now leader Judith Collins says National has to be a party that represents all New Zealanders. Last year's election defeat is still fresh on MPs minds as they meet for a two day caucus retreat in Wellington. RNZ political editor Jane Patterson is there and filed this report.