Māori leaders have hit back against what they are describing as race-baiting from political parties - saying racism should have no place in elections.
In an open letter, seventeen iwi leaders, marae heads and a representative of the Office of the Kiingitanga have supported a call by Labour leader Chris Hipkins to end racist comments in election campaigns, acknowledging both Te Pāti Māori and the Greens' anti-racist positions.
The letter calls on National leader Christopher Luxon to condemn the racist comments made by New Zealand First candidates and the ACT Party.
Manukau Urban Māori Authority chair and Labour Party member Bernie O'Donnell spoke to Charlotte Cook.
