The leader of the Mana Movement says the controversy over Ngāpuhi leader Sonny Tau has caused deep divisions within northern Māori.
Hone Harawira. Photo: RNZ / Kim Baker Wilson
Mr Tau is being investigated by the Department of Conservation after he was found with dead kererū.
He subsequently stepped aside as chairman of the board leading his iwi's treaty negotiations, Tūhoronuku.
Hone Harawira urged people to withold their judgement until the investigation by DOC and any legal proceedings had finished.
Mr Harawira said things had become very ugly, with hysteria being whipped up by his enemies.
The former MP said while Sonny Tau was not popular with some people, including those in Te Kōtahitanga, he does not want Māori to be divided into two camps, when all that was wanted was a future that benefits all mokopuna.
Ngapuhi leader Sonny Tau Photo: RNZ / Lois Williams
But Mr Harawira said it was right of Mr Tau to stand down, as what he did was unbecoming of a man who leads Ngāpuhi.
