16 Aug 2018

Former Kīngitanga supporter fed up with governance

From Morning Report, 7:30 am on 16 August 2018

Waikato-Tainui woman Brenda Maxwell says concerns about spending in the Kīngitanga are not new and she's glad they've come to light. King Tuheitia's former representative Tukoroirangi Morgan has sent a detailed email criticising the King and his chief advisor Rangi Whakaruru. Mr Morgan claims Mr Whakaruru is paid an exorbitant salary, has taken out an $83,000 loan and drives an expensive car. He says it is paid for by the Kīngitanga's Ururangi Trust, which is being investigated by the Serious Fraud Office. Brenda Maxwell, who grew up in Huntly as a follower of the Kīngitanga, told RNZ Māori news correspondent Leigh-Marama McLachlan she finds the claims embarrassing.