The Labour Party and the Green Party have announced today they have signed an historic agreement to work co-operatively to change the Government.

The Memorandum of Understanding between the parties commits them to working co-operatively to change the Government including closer work at parliament and a possible joint policy announcement or campaign.

'We are sending a clear signal to New Zealanders who want a new and better government that Labour and the Greens will work together to deliver that,” says Labour Party leader Andrew Little.

'It is our intent to build on this agreement to offer New Zealanders the basis of a stable, credible and progressive alternative government at the 2017 General Election.

'The MoU is a fresh start and a sign of newfound strength in our relationship and our mutual commitment to changing the Government.

'When I was elected Labour leader I made it clear that we would not go into another election without strong co-operation with likeminded parties to change the Government. Today, I am delivering on that promise.

'A new Labour-led Government will focus on the critical issues facing our country. We will provide better housing, health and education and a cleaner environment while building a sustainable economy with decent jobs,” says Andrew.

'New Zealanders who want a better future now have crystal clear clarity about what they are getting with their vote, we are a vote for change,” says Green Party co-leader Metiria Turei.

'It is time for a Government that puts the wellbeing of people and the environment at the centre of everything it does.

'When Labour and the Greens have actively cooperated and campaigned together, New Zealanders did perceive our parties as a credible alternative to National.

'New Zealanders want to see politicians working together. This MOU lets people see we are a strong and stable alternative to the current Government.

'We are separate parties with our own policies and ideas, but with more than enough in common to work together. We are a good match for building a better Aotearoa New Zealand,” Metiria says.