Priyanca Radhakrishnan is the Labour List MP based in Maungakiekie.

"For me, politics is about choices. I believe decision‑making should be community-led and should lead to better outcomes for everyone, not just the privileged few.

"Everyone – regardless of ethnicity, gender, sexuality or socio-economic status – should have the opportunity to live with dignity. That means equitable access to affordable housing, quality education and decent, secure work. It also means that everyone should feel safe both in their homes and on the streets.

In the 54th Parliament, Priyanca has been a strong advocate for Conservation, championing evidence‑based environmental stewardship and the protection of Aotearoa’s unique biodiversity. She has also held the ACC portfolio and is committed to ensuring that ACC works effectively.

During the 53rd Parliament, she was the Minister for the Community and Voluntary Sector, for Disability Issues, for Diversity, Inclusion and Ethnic Communities, as well as Associate Minister for Social Development and Employment and for Workplace Relations and Safety. She is the first person of Indian origin to become a Minister in New Zealand.

Priyanca has worked extensively with our ethnically diverse and disability communities to ensure their voices are heard in Parliament and that they’re supported to thrive.

A proud union member, Priyanca is also a member of the Asia New Zealand Foundation Leadership Network.

Priyanca was born in India, went to school in Singapore, and moved to New Zealand to further her education. She has a Master of Development Studies from Victoria University and chose to make Aotearoa her home over 20 years ago.

She has spent her work life advocating on behalf of people whose voices are often unheard – survivors of domestic violence, and migrant workers who have been exploited. She has also worked as a policy advisor to former Labour MP, Hon Phil Goff.

Priyanca lives in Auckland with her husband and three lovely rescue dogs. Issues concerning animal welfare are also close to her heart and she’s a strong supporter of dog-friendly spaces.