Roa new casualty of Tainui unrest

One of Tainui's top men has resigned as tension within the tribe and the kingitanga continues to grow.

Tom Roa, who was the chairman of the tribe's parliament, Te Kauhanganui, tendered his resignation citing personal reasons at a meeting this week.

When contacted by the Waikato Times Mr Roa said he did not want to comment until he had talked to tribal members first. Mr Roa's decision to stand down followed a tumultuous Te Kauhanganui meeting last month at which the Maori king, Tuheitia Paki, stood and spoke about his frustration and anger regarding the behaviour of some of the tribe. It was during this speech that tribal sources allege King Tuheitia said he might "withdraw as paramount chief of the tribe and King of the tribe" if members did not fall back into line.

The claim about the threat was disputed by a spokesperson for the king, who said King Tuheitia would never threaten to abdicate.

Following the Te Kauhanganui meeting Mr Roa requested an appointment with King Tuheitia to discuss the situation and the source of the frustration. It was understood that the two met on Friday and after a private discussion Mr Roa gave his first indication he would resign.

The resignation was accepted by the tribe's executive board, Te Arataura, on Monday night, however tribal sources said the resignation might have to be passed by Te Kauhanganui before it could be officially signed off.

"It was Te Kauhanganui that elected Tom and it will not be final until Te Kauhanganui accept the resignation," the sources said. "It is not a decision that can be made by Te Arataura."

The sources said they were concerned Mr Roa was forced into his decision because the king blamed him for the disharmony among the tribe's representatives.

Phone calls made to the chief of staff at the king's office, Rangi Whakaruru, were not returned.

- © Fairfax NZ News