7 Apr 2014

Maori Party won't lobby King's council

7:53 am on 7 April 2014

The Maori Party says it won't make moves to talk to the revamped Maori King's Council about issues that affect Maoridom.

Its co-leader Te Ururoa Flavell says it is up to the Tekau-maa-rua council to decide if it needs support from the party and wants to discuss matters.

The Maori King, Tuheitia.

The Maori King, Tuheitia. Photo: RNZ

Twelve tribal representatives from around the motu have just been appointed to the council, to consult the king on issues that affect Te Ao Maori.

Mr Flavell says he sees the council as another Maori institution, similar to the Iwi Chairs Forum, which he is happy to support.

But he says the party doesn't actively lobby groups, saying it is up to Maori people to utilise the party as they see appropriate.