What’s your name, how old are you, where are you from and where do you stay?
John Pulu. 25. Originally from Tonga, I stay here in Ōtāhuhu.
Are you eligible to vote in the 2014 Elections?
Yes.
If yes, do you know who you will vote for, and are you familiar with any politicians vying for your vote in your local electorate?
I’m not too sure at this stage, but one thing I am happy with is that there are more PIs in more parties and not just one party. It does mean there are more options, but it makes the decision harder.I’m aware of Jenny Salesa, only because I’ve worked with her and I know she has replaced Ross Robertson who was looking after Ōtāhuhu. I also know the other Tongan conservative MP, Edward Saafi; he’s standing for Mangere and basically after the Pacific vote as well.
What politicians and parties ‘speak to you’?
I think for me, I care about areas like housing, employment… I’ll cast my vote to the parties who prioritise those things.
What do you think makes people want to vote?
Making sure what they say is what they do… Sometimes they make these big promises and nothing is being done.
How do you think voting relates to your everyday life?
Voting does make a difference. If you’re unhappy about something, that’s the time to make it count. Everyday does relate to who it is you vote for.
What’s important to you in terms of how the government affects your life?
A care factor, so they’re not just serving one class and forgetting another.
What kind of future would you like to see in New Zealand for you and for your family?
One thing that New Zealand is very proud of is multiculturalism. I just want it to feel like we’re part of everyday New Zealand. There are certain opportunities that are available to some and not others; as New Zealanders, we should all have the same privileges.
John Pulu | Vote #SouthAuckland 2014 | #nzpol What’s your name, how old are you, where are you from and where do you stay?
