Runanga positions differ

LEADERS of the two biggest runanga in the Far North are backing rival candidates in the mayoral race.

Ngapuhi Runanga trustees voted unanimously in July to endorse the mayoral bid of Sir John Goulter, who heads the runanga's commercial arm Ngapuhi Asset Holding Company.

Runanga chairman Sonny Tau says the council suffers from a lack of credible, inclusive leadership.

Trustees who represent takiwa (areas) across the southern half of the district see Sir John as a man with the business credentials and government contacts to guide the district in a practical way, he says.

"We believe that if anyone can rebuild the relationships between business, council, Maori and the community at large in our district, this is the man to do it." The runanga's endorsement of Sir John is the first time it has backed a candidate at local elections.

"In the last few elections, Maori have been apathetic in voting and yet demanding that the runanga assist them to achieve their desires.

"The board decided that the best way to assist Maori achieve their aspirations was to influence council membership."

But the chairman of Te Rarawa Runanga, which represents 23 marae from Kaitaia to the Hokianga, paints a different picture of mayor Wayne Brown and his council.

Haami Piripi says his organisation has a constructive relationship with the council and has been encouraged by the support and respect Mr Brown has extended to Te Rarawa.

"I've worked with him on a number of issues now and I've been very impressed with his commitment to our future." While the runanga isn't formally endorsing any candidate, Mr Piripi is personally backing the mayor's bid for a second term.

"I would have no hesitation at turning up and supporting one of Wayne Brown's initiatives in this campaign, because I know that if I had an issue of equal significance he would support ours."

He made no comment on the Ngapuhi Runanga endorsement of Sir John.

- © Fairfax NZ News