Hawera blackface float: Mayor's part disappointing - iwi leader

The iwi leader who drew attention to the blackface float in the Hawera A&P Show parade says the South Taranaki District Mayor shouldn't have to resign for being part of a judging panel that awarded it second prize. Ross Dunlop says he was asked to be a judge at short notice and wasn't paying much attention. He says he made a big mistake and has learned from it, but will not be offering his resignation. Ngati Ruanui leader Debbie Ngarewa Packer, told our reporter Robin Martin that it is disappointing to learn of the mayor's involvement but its not a sacking offence and should be used as a learning experience for the whole community.