Luamanuvao Winnie Laban 

Mana MP deeply saddened by police officer's death

11.07.2008

The shocking and tragic death of local police officer Sergeant Derek Wootton is extremely saddening, Mana MP Luamanuvao Winnie Laban said today.

"Police have an important role in making our communities a safe place to live.  Sergeant Derek Wootton had been serving and protecting our community as a member of the New Zealand Police Force for 14 years.  His death is a great loss," Laban said.

"My support and deepest sympathy... more +

New Counties Manukau campus will benefit Pacific people

03.07.2008

Pacific Island Affairs Minister Luamanuvao Winnie Laban has welcomed the announcement of a new university campus for Counties Manukau, saying increased education and training opportunities will particularly benefit our Pacific communities.

Prime Minister Helen Clark and Tertiary Education Minister Pete Hodgson announced today that the government has contributed a $25 million capital grant to Auckland University of Technology (AUT) which recently purchased the Manukau campus site; it will be opening its doors to students in 2009.&nb... more +

Inspirational Pacific leader will be greatly missed

02.07.2008

Elizabeth Peivi Alice Lee-Lo Smith or Aunty Liz as she was known fondly by many in our Pacific communities was an inspirational leader who will be greatly missed, Pacific Island Affairs Minister and Mana MP Luamanuvao Winnie Laban said today.

"Aunty Liz leaves behind a legacy of service, courage and advocacy for the interests of workers and the wellbeing of our Pacific peoples.  She was a strong, compassionate and generous woman who made an enormous impact on the lives of others.

"Her passion for her wider community is evi... more +

Opening of Paekakariki Restored Signal Box

06.08.2008

Taloha ni, Talofa lava, Malo e lelei, Fakaalofa lahi atu, Ni sa bula vinaka, Namaste, Kia orana koutou katoatoa, Ia Orana, Gud de tru olgeta, Talofa, Kia ora tatau and Warm Pacific Greetings to you all this morning.

It is absolutely wonderful to be able to join you after travelling with the Parliamentary Special to mark the 100 year celebration of the North Island Main Trunk Line, commemorating the first train journey entire by rail between Wellington and Auckland in 1908. What makes this journey particularl... more +