Iwi leaders in Kaipara have confronted the mayor in a heated hui, accusing him of racism.
About 400 people gathered in Dargaville to protest against the Kaipara mayor this morning - followed by a meeting.
It comes two weeks after Craig Jepson repeatedly interrupted councillor Pera Paniora when she tried to open a hui with karakia.
He has since permitted karakia on a rotating basis just before meetings but not in them.
Ngāti Wai iwi chair Aperahama Edwards spoke to Māni Dunlop.
