Jamie Toko (Tainui, Ngapuhi, Ngati Whatua) is proud to stand as the Labour candidate in the Waikato electorate.

"I want to represent hardworking families across our rural communities. Our region is large, diverse, and deeply connected to the land and it deserves strong, committed representation.

“Supporting families and putting more money back into household incomes is a priority for me. I’ll work with the Labour team to achieve this by building a stronger economy, creating jobs, re-establishing apprenticeship opportunities, and supporting local industries.

“The people of this electorate are spread across a land mass the size of Auckland, and that scale makes local representation more important than ever. Every town, every rural community, and every family deserves to be heard.

“I understand how vital rural infrastructure and resilient, connected communities are integral to the wellbeing of our region. When our roads, services, housing, and local industries are supported, our communities grow stronger and more secure.

“Strong communities are built through partnership, respect, and ongoing engagement, and I’m committed to building trust, strengthening relationships, and delivering real outcomes.

“I understand the realities faced by families living in low socio-economic communities, including the impacts of alcohol and drug addiction, mental health challenges, and the rise in violent crime. I’m committed to addressing these challenges so our families can live safely, and our communities can continue to thrive.

Jamie Toko is Chair of the Western Community Centre and was President of the Tainui Māori Women’s Welfare League for ten years. She keeps strong relationships with whānau of local iwi and hapū of Ngāti Hauā.

Jamie’s personal connection to the region began when her parents moved from the Far North to Waitoa in the 1940s. Her father worked at the Waitoa Dairy Factory and her mother raised twelve children in a dairy factory home.