2 Oct 2018

Tests ahead in Tokelau for Kris Faafoi

From , 6:04 am on 2 October 2018

A New Zealand government minister is heading to the territory of Tokelau tomorrow for the first ministerial visit since 2004.

Kris Faafoi's visit will be amid the growing concerns over governance in Tokelau and pending legal action against its government.

Mackenzie Smith is travelling to Tokelau with Mr Faafoi and has this report.
 
Things are tense right now in Tokelau - New Zealand's last colony.

There's concern over the use of millions of dollars of government funds on helicopters and property without proper approval

A New Zealand Administrator was ousted, two public servants were dismissed, and now there are plans to strip Tokelau's government of some of its powers.

The two former public servants are also suing the government and the new Administrator Ross Ardern over their dismissal.

Wellington community leader Luther Toloa says there's no doubt there's turmoil.

Civil Defence Minister Kris Faafoi

Civil Defence Minister Kris Faafoi Photo: RNZ / Cole Eastham-Farrelly