The Howick Community Board is under fire for refusing to consult tangata whenua over the name of a new reserve.
Waatea News reports the board wants to call the reserve Fencible Walk - a reference to the military settlers who were given land in the district to defend the southeastern edge of Auckland from Maori.
Board member Jami-Lee Matenga Ross says all residents were asked to make submissions on a park development plan a year ago and no alternative suggestions were received from Maori with links to the area.
He says Fencible Walk is the name Howick residents want, so there's no need to consult with tangata whenua who oppose the choice.
However, Manukau City Council policy analyst Moana Herewini says the board should have talked to Maori.
