Kaipara's mayor has been accused of racism and cultural ignorance, after stopping a councillor opening a hui with a karakia.
Craig Jepson interrupted councillor Pera Paniora several times last week when she tried to start a hui in te reo Māori.
Despite backlash from ratepayers, and concerns from Race Relations Commissioner Meng Foon, the mayor insists he won't allow karakia.
He spoke to Te Tai Tokerau reporter Sam Olley.
