Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland has the potential to be one of the most productive and vibrant cities in the world. I’m committed to making sure that while we grow, we build sustainable infrastructure, inclusive communities and a city that makes us better connected.

Before he was elected to Parliament in 2020, Shanan spent 15 years in education leadership and management at tertiary institutions improving access to higher learning for many young people, Māori and Pasifika.

He grew up in Hawke’s Bay and has whakapapa to Iwi including Ngāti Whitikaupeka, Rongowhakaata and Ngāti Kahungunu.

As Labour’s spokesperson for Auckland Issues, Shanan is committed to working alongside the community to set the city up for the future. He's focused on ensuring that infrastructure is resilient, that public services - like hospitals and schools - are world-class, transport connections meet the needs of a growing city, and that there’s warm, dry housing for everyone.

Shanan believes that everyone deserves to be able to live freely, just as they are. In his role as Labour’s spokesperson for Rainbow Issues, he is working hard to ensure the rights and dignity of the LGBTQIA+ and takatāpui are upheld in Aotearoa New Zealand.