Ratana welcomes Key, but not told about massive increase in unemployment...

Ratana welcomes National with open arms but not sure of who they were welcoming, maybe...

Prime Minister John Key has received a warm welcome at Ratana celebrations, drawing thanks from the movement's leadership

There has been a strong endorsement of the National Party by those at Ratana today.

The Prime Minister and other National MPs are the first politicians to take part in the event celebrating the birthday of prophet TW Ratana.

During the welcoming speeches at the Ratana Marae, Minister Joe Everitt told John Key Ratana leadership simply wants to thank him and his party for all their work - and drew laughs with this comment:

"In the short time that you have been in power you've done so much more than what others have done for the Maori Party ... oh ... for the Maori people."

He told John Key he recalls giving him a shopping list this time last year of what Ratana followers expected from National.

"That if there were any laws for my Maori people that you are going to change, do make sure that you talk to all the Maori people. You've fulfilled that John - ka pai."

Mr Key told the crowd improving race relations and the mana of the foreshore and seabed are high on the Government's agenda. He says today's visit to Ratana has been a success and he is going home happy. But he never told them of the massive increase in unemployment, did he?




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