The man representing Mana in the Northland by-election says it's going to be a tough race running for what's considered to be a safe National seat.
A poster for Mana Photo: MANA
Rueben Taipari Porter is standing on an anti-oil exploration platform.
The Mana movement has never before put a candidate up for the general electorate of Northland, which became vacant following the resignation of National's Mike Sabin.
Mr Taipari Porter of Ngā Puhi and Te Rārawa says he's got his work cut out when the contest is held on 28 March.
"This is a by-election, and there are different ways of dealing with a by-election campaign strategy, as opposed to a national election.
"It's going to be a tough race for me. Although I'm going into a very National orientated electorate, being able to participate and share a message about crossing the diversities and talking about ... Northland and Tai Tokerau working together for the benefit of our community and region is worthwhile".
