Rt Hon Adrian Rurawhe has announced he will retire from politics after more than a decade in Parliament.

“Over the summer break I’ve been thinking about different kaupapa, mostly whānau and church. Retiring now will allow me to be more involved - which I’m very much looking forward to,” Adrian Rurawhe said. 

Adrian Rurawhe was first elected to Parliament in 2014 as the Member for Te Tai Hauāuru and went on to serve four consecutive terms. Over the course of his parliamentary career, he has held several senior roles including Speaker of the House of Representatives from August 2022 to December 2023.

“I want to express my gratitude to the people of Te Tai Hauāuru, the Labour movement, and the countless individuals and communities I have served over the past twelve years.

“I also want to acknowledge my whānau for their continued support. I would never have become an MP without them, and I will be forever grateful.”

Adrian Rurawhe’s last day as an MP will be Waitangi Day. He will be replaced by Georgie Dansey (Ngāti Tūwharetoa) who is next on the Labour Party list.

“I wish Georgie all the very best, I’m certain that she will be a hard-working MP and will do a great job,” Adrian Rurawhe said.

Labour leader Chris Hipkins acknowledged Adrian Rurawhe and his mahi.

“I’d like to acknowledge Adrian for the significant contribution he has made to our team and to New Zealand.

“Adrian was respected across the House in his role as Speaker, he was a valued member of the Labour team, and a passionate advocate for Maori. We will miss him and wish him all the very best as he moves away from the political arena,” Chris Hipkins said.