An iwi group has pulled out of plans for Maori health provision at the top of the South Island, saying its service would be dumbed down and put at risk.
A single Maori health body is being created in Te Tau Ihu by six organisations but Te Hauora O Ngati Rarua isn't joining them.
Chair Rod Bird says it's not convinced the new structure will work, and it left the coalition because it wants to stick to its values. He says he's sceptical but doesn't want to be obstructive.
Nelson Marlborough District Health Board (DHB) has failed to provide hands-on leadership to create the new Maori health entity, Te Piki Oranga, Dr Bird says.
The DHB starts a round of hui this week to explain its changes.
