Mana Maori Movement - Definition

The Mana Maori Movement is a New Zealand political party. It advocates on behalf of the Maori people. It was founded by Eva Rickard, a prominent Maori activist. Rickard was originally a member of Mana Motuhake, another Maori party, but quit when Mana Motuhake joined the Alliance (a broad left-wing coalition). Rickard, believing that an independent Maori party was needed, founded Mana Maori in 1993.

Mana Maori was the largest wholely-Maori party contesting the most recent elections, and incorporated the smaller Te Tawharau and Piri Wiri Tua parties, but did not win any seats. The emergence of the new Maori Party, founded by sitting MP Tariana Turia, may prompt the party to examine its role, as it has been suggested by some that all existing Maori parties should join forces to support the new organisation.