The Christian Heritage Party was pleased to announce its 1999 Party List at a press conference in Wellington today.

Of particular interest is the inclusion of two extra-ordinary candidates, Mr Philip Sherry and Mrs Tuhi Vahaakolo.

Mr Sherry, who became well known as a broadcaster and television newsreader, is currently an Auckland Regional Councillor. He has been involved in community work for much of his life, including becoming a Justice of the Peace and a Civil Marriage Celebrant. “He is a gentleman who has high moral values and consistent standards. He exemplifies what the Christian Heritage Party hopes to promote in the next Parliament,” Mr Capill said.

Mrs Vahaakolo has also led a distinguished life in voluntary community work over the last 42 years. This includes 31 years as a member and then chairperson of Te Pupuhitanga of Maori Wardens, a life member of the Maori Women’s Welfare League and a Justice of the Peace working with the Justice Department and CYPFS. As a result she was the Queen’s Recipient in 1967 and received the QSM for community service in 1983.

“We are very privileged to have a person of such mana associated with our Party. Apart from her not inconsiderable abilities, she brings to our Party a rich understanding of the complexity of issues arising out of the Treaty. She also believes that Christian values are the only way forward for our nation.

“Others at the top of the Christian Heritage Party List include Ewen McQueen (an economist and deputy leader), Gael Donoghue (a Field Worker and Fellow of the Pharmaceutical Society of New Zealand), John Bryant (previously Commanding Officer at the Burnham Military Camp and currently the Party’s Executive Director) and Frank Grover (a lawyer and magistrate) who has been the Christian Heritage Party’s sole MP over the last six months. (Please find a summary of their biographical details following.)

“The Christian Heritage Party List is made up of well qualified, level headed New Zealanders who love their country and seek what many hope for: stable family life, and politicians who treat their constituents with honesty and integrity. I am confident that this team can deliver what we promise,” Mr Capill concluded.

With the Christian Coalition achieving 4.4% of the Party vote in 1996, Christian Heritage is confident it can cross the threshold given it is the only ‘Christian’ Party on the ballot paper and knowing that a low voter turn out is likely to assist the Party achieving what was denied by only 12,000 votes last election.

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