Despite the trials of last year, Waikato-Tainui came out on top
with their asset values climbing to an $800m net worth.
But on New Year's day, Waikato-Tainui
again found themselves thrust under the spotlight.
King Tuheitia announced
that the tribe's management needed to undergo some changes.
Last week, a member of Te Ara Taura openly supported
the king's call for change.
Taitimu Maipi says everything needs to change
from Te Ara Taura to Te Kauhanganui.
Te Ara Taura chair Tukoroirangi Morgan will speak with us now.
Welcome Tuku and a happy new year to you.
Tuku - day one of the New Year, and Waikato Tainui already make
the headlines with controversy over management.
Do you support what the King has said?
There is no controversy.
It's simply been brought to our attention
that the tribe needs to look
at managing our organisational structure efficiently.
I fully support the enquiries of the King to asses all the
managerial structures of the tribe.
The corporation needs to execute their role professionally
under Waikato Tainui protocol and I support this notion.
What's your opinion because you report directly to the King?
Do you have a personal opinion on what he has said?
Just so you know, the information from the newspapers is incorrect.
The situation differs to the one reported in the Waikato Times.
With their lies, they've tried to discredit us in our own region.
We're use to this type of slander.
I was born under the protocols of the Kingtanga
and I'll go out the same way.
My loyalty lies with the King.
But does the King support you?
There's nothing more to say.
The King's said he supports the work of Te Ara Taura.
Assessments and management issues of the tribes business
must be left to Te Ara Taura.
An audit and investigation must be conducted by an outside authority.
Te Arataura must have control of daily business,
however this entity must have consent from the people
on any decisions made.
Tuku, we're short on time, so I have one last question for you;
You said an outside authority will be commissioned
to audit the business structures of Te Kauhanganui and Te Ara Taura?
Yes, this is what the King wants.
He wants an outside authority
like Sir Eddie Durie or Georgina Te Heuheu in this role
with the authority to look at the mechanics of our business.
Any findings will be reported directly to the people and they'll
be given an opportunity to vote.
It wont be left to the Kauhanganui, the people will make the judgment.
Tuku, that's all the time we have left.
Thank you for your time.