National Executive candidates Northern Regional Representative 2023

Michael Cabral-Tarry

Hi, I’m Michael Cabral-Tarry and I’m running for Northern Regional Representative.

I’ve always been keen on collectively agitating for something better. At school, it was petitions and protests. At university, it was the student associations. When I began work as a teacher, it was the union – the PPTA.

In 13 years as a teacher, I was a delegate at branch, regional, and national levels. I sat on national committees, working with beginning and LGBTI+ teachers to ensure they were supported and heard, and with government to ensure teacher workloads were reduced. I led PPTA’s Tāmaki Makaurau Region for 7 years, organising conferences, stop-work meetings, and strikes (including the two combined PPTA/NZEI strikes in 2019 and 2023). I’m also a member of the IWW.

I’m now proud to be a professional trade unionist as a field officer with PPTA. I love the values of unionism, and I’d be honoured to work for you and with you as your Northern Regional Representative.


Jason Fell

I’m Jason Fell, seeking re-election as the Northern Regional Rep. I currently hold this position and aim to make ongoing valuable contributions. With five years on the National Executive and previous experience as Convenor for the Public and Commercial Industry Council, I have a deep-rooted commitment to workers’ rights and conditions. A robust union movement is crucial in building a better society. Workers deserve a meaningful say in their work environment. Collaboration and organization are key for achieving necessary improvements. It’s not just about pay and conditions but securing a brighter future for our children. Let’s unite, advocate for our rights, and create lasting positive change. I’m dedicated to fighting for fair treatment, equal opportunities, and the interests of workers. With your support, I’ll continue championing these causes as the Northern Regional Rep. Together, we’ll ensure workers’ voices are heard, and their well-being and rights are respected. Thank you for considering my re-election.


Vivien Welland

Hi everyone,

I have been in the food manufacturing industry for 34 years, 14 years as an employee of Bluebird Foods.

I have been a delegate for over 6 years now, involved in negotiations, our last pay increase secured 11% over 2 years for our members. I put together monthly agendas for the CCM, attend disciplinary meetings when needed, and general up keep of the E tū notice boards, keeps staff up to date on union activities! I am also a First Aider, H&S rep and recently completed my MHFA certification.

I believe that communication is my greatest asset, it creates better work relationships, builds empathy and builds trust.
As a delegate fairness is the key, it is a lot more than we think, being part of the National Executive Committee, ensures everyone is treated the same, it encourages respect, responsibility, leadership and a life that matters, all these affect a community.

Thank you for giving me a chance to be part of the team.