Labour Pacific Island affairs spokesperson Taito Phillip Field is warning Pacific Island people not to be misled by the promoters of a Maori citizenship scheme.

"The Pacific Island community has great respect for the Tangata Whenua. There is a close relationship and kinship between the Polynesians of the Pacific and Aotearoa. But as a community here in New Zealand, Pacific people must respect the law of the land.

"They should not be confused by schemes put forward by marginal groups. There is only one law in New Zealand relating to immigration.

"Pacific people wanting to secure New Zealand residence or citizenship may be drawn to this scheme. But they risk losing a lot of money, through ignorance and desperation to resolve their immigration status.

"If people want to seek better understanding of New Zealand's immigration policy I am happy to assist them," Taito Phillip Field said. "They can also approach the Immigration Department, other MPs or reputable immigration consultants.

"There is a due process to follow. There is no resolution to people's immigration difficulties through this cruel hoax."

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