A foundation pupil of the Rātana Pa school, Paikea started work in the Native Affairs Ministry.

As a Member of Parliament for the Far North and based in Auckland, Paikea had a special emphasis for Tai Tokerau land claims and the needs of Maori moving to the city.

Media speculated that Paikea may be a weak link in this regard as his health was known to be poor and his attendance record in the previous parliament was not good.

During the three years of the government Paikea never put a foot wrong and not only had impeccable attendance but chaired the Maori Affairs select committee with skill.

National MP Norman Shelton remarked on the change in attendance habits to which Paikea responded "In opposition, I was the only one worrying about my health.