Human Rights Commission urges Tauranga locals to keep talking

Race Relations Commissioner Dame Susan Devoy is urging Tauranga locals to keep talking in the wake of news that some residents are opposed to a kura kaupapa opening in their suburb.

“Tauranga Moana iwi's history in this region spans millennia as does their future: the challenge is for all of us to work together, talk and listen,” said Dame Susan.

“Continuing dialogue and korero is the most important thing to preserve: when the dialogue ends we all lose."

Some residents of a Wellington suburb were initially opposed to the opening of a kura nearby but twelve years on and that school is an integral part of the community. The Maori children of that kura and their whanau are part of their community she said.

“I have faith in Tauranga locals - Maori and non Maori - to work as one and to sort a path forward for all our children,” said Dame Susan.

“As a region and as a people we've come such a long way, I'm proud of how far we've come together, I know we can do better.”

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