Ngapuhi "crying wolf" over Marae Ban

Threats by self-appointed Waitangi Marae caretaker and cleaner Kingi Taurua to ban politicians from the marae on Waitangi Day are empty and a case of Mr Taurua "crying wolf" says Ngapuhi kaumatua David Rankin.

"Mr Taurua has a long history of hating. This time, he has turned his attention to the TPPA, and without understanding the benefits it will bring to our people, is trying to organise a ban of politicians at the Te Tii Marae at Waitangi," says Mr Rankin.

Mr Rankin, who is a descendant of the famous Ngapuhi chief Hone Heke, says that Taurua criticising the TPPA "because it has become fashionable for left-wing types t do this." He challenges Mr Taurua to identify how Maori interests will be harmed by the agreement.

"All I see," says Mr Rankin, "are opportunities for us to benefit through greater employment education, and intellectual property opportunities. This is what the TPPS will bring to Maori. It's just that a few people don't want us to prosper because they will have less to complain about."

Mr Rankin has praised Mr Taurua for his work as a caretaker and cleaner at Te Tii Marae, but says that does not qualify him as an expert on international trade agreements.

ENDS

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