Waitakere City Mayor Bob Harvey is calling for the board of the Auckland Museum to be dismissed if it can't sort out its differences with the institution's director.
The Mayoral Forum has asked museum chair William Randal to explain why its relationship with Vanda Vitali has deteriorated.
A number of controversies have arisen since her appointment in 2007, including restructuring of some jobs and a dispute with the children of Sir Edmund Hillary over the display of some of his personal items.
Mr Harvey says the Mayoral Forum asked Dr Randall to assure them Dr Vitali's job is secure.
He says it appears there has been a lack of leadership from the board with Dr Vitali hung out to dry.
Mr Harvey says the forum has asked both sides to find a solution.
Dr Randall could not be reached for comment.
However, Dr Vitali has confirmed a review into her performance is underway.
She says she's looking forward to working with the board on the museum's direction.
