Whanau Ora Minister Tariana Turia is backing a Porirua trust that is being investigated by the police following reports of stolen funds.
The Taeaomanino Trust was recently awarded a contract to provide family support services through the Whanau Ora programme.
One of the trust's founders resigned from its board early last year after confessing he had a gambling addiction.
Mrs Turia says the Trust underwent a full audit 18 months ago and she is satisfied it is a high-performing organisation.
She says the issue is in the spotlight only because of the focus on the Mana by-election.
