Maori Party MP Rahui Katene's husband was racially abused in Christchurch last week, soon after his arrival in the city.
Mrs Katene and her husband, Selwyn, a consultant, moved from Wellington to Christchurch last Thursday so she could better serve Te Tai Tonga, the country's largest electorate.
Mr Katene, who was driving through Christchurch, was left "quite shaken" after being subjected to racist taunts from a young Pakeha male walking down the street.
Her husband was identified as Maori and "treated to a barrage of racist abuse", she said. "Selwyn did the right thing and took off."
Mrs Katene said the incident would not be put her off her adopted city.
Mrs Katene said she also encountered racism while on the campaign trail in Ashburton, but that had only strengthened her resolve to improve race relations.
When asked how racism could be stopped, she said, "It has to come down to education."
Christchurch Mayor Bob Parker said when contacted it was "very disappointing" the incident had taken place.
"It is embarrassing and unfortunate. But it is an isolated incident, and the wider population of Christchurch will be thrilled that Rahui Katene and her husband have moved to Christchurch, and I hope they come to love living in this wonderful city."
