Labour MP Cushla Tangaere-Manuel Shares Summer Plans and Joys

Labour MP Cushla Tangaere-Manuel has opened up about her summer plans, expressing excitement for family visits and traditional meals as she steps away from her parliamentary duties. In a recent conversation with journalist Harriet Laughton, Tangaere-Manuel shared her anticipated activities over the break, revealing a blend of personal reflection and family bonding.

Returning to Roots

Tangaere-Manuel is particularly looking forward to returning to her hometown of Rangitukia. She described her deep emotional connection to the place, stating, “I speak so fondly about it in the house, but very rarely get to visit.” The return is especially meaningful this year, as she will be able to spend time with her family and meet several new mokopuna, or grandchildren, born within the last year. She expressed her eagerness to shower them with affection and create lasting memories, saying she looks forward to “giving smooches and sniffing that yummy baby scent.”

Summer Traditions and Culinary Delights

When it comes to summer meals, Tangaere-Manuel highlighted that hāngī, a traditional Māori dish, is her family’s go-to. Last year, her niece took charge of preparing the meal, allowing the older generation to step back from the typically hectic cooking process. Tangaere-Manuel described the experience as “completely stress-free,” in contrast to the usual chaos. Her own contributions include bringing ham and preparing shrimp salad, ensuring that family traditions continue to thrive.

In addition to food, summer drinks play a significant role in her family gatherings. Now that she has reached a “certain vintage,” Tangaere-Manuel enjoys making mimosas for the adults while they prepare meals together. This shared experience reflects her commitment to fostering a relaxed and joyful atmosphere during the holidays.

Reading and Entertainment

On the topic of reading, Tangaere-Manuel shared that she typically prefers personal development books over fiction. However, after completing a speed reading course, she found herself captivated by “The Necklace” by Cheryl Jarvis. The book narrates the true story of a group of women who co-invested in a diamond necklace, transforming it from a vanity project into a means of personal growth and community support. Tangaere-Manuel appreciated how the story evolved, emphasizing its inspirational messages.

While the demands of her role as an MP limit her time for television and podcasts, she remains open to recommendations for inspiring content. Although she may not have the luxury to binge-watch shows during the summer, she is eager to explore new media that aligns with her interests.

Summer Vibes and Nostalgic Memories

Reflecting on her ultimate summer song, Tangaere-Manuel mentioned the Black Seeds, an iconic New Zealand band, even though they are not typically at the top of her playlist. The music evokes a sense of adventure, reminding her of road trips along State Highway 35 as she heads to her rural home.

For swimming, she reminisced about her childhood swimming hole located less than 100 meters from her house. Over time, environmental changes have affected its depth, prompting her to seek out deeper spots for swimming. Tangaere-Manuel’s sense of nostalgia highlights the importance of family and local traditions during the summer season.

As the break approaches, Tangaere-Manuel’s plans reflect a combination of cherished family traditions, personal growth, and a longing for connection. Her insights offer a glimpse into the life of a dedicated MP who values her roots and the simple joys of summer.