26 Aug 2014

Former iwi chair challenges removal

7:12 pm on 26 August 2014

Court proceedings have been initiated against one of New Zealand's largest iwi by its former tribal chairperson.

Tania Martin is challenging her removal in 2012 as chair of Waikato-Tainui which came after months of bitter fighting among the tribal leadership.

Waikato-Tainui says Ms Martin is seeking reinstatement as chair and the iwi is seeking legal advice.

Ms Martin was stood down after a meeting of the tribe's leadership, at which she was accused of bringing the parliament into disrepute.

A power struggle between Ms Martin and former executive board chair Tukoroirangi Morgan played out in public in the months leading up to her removal.

Ms Martin released a report in 2010 alleging excessive spending by the board.