Hinewhare Harawira has stepped down from an anti-violence
campaign following allegations her three adult sons beat a
12-year-old boy.
Ms Harawira announced her temporary resignation from Te
Pataka Ki Waitangi late yesterday.
It is understood she wants to focus on the matter involving
her three sons, Mau Harawira, 30, Enesi Zane Taito, 25, and
Tohora Harawira, 22.
The men have been charged with the assault of a boy at a
Blockhouse Bay property last August.
According to a police summary, they allegedly followed the
youngster into his house and hit and kicked him repeatedly
before making off with various items including the boy's
PlayStation 3 console.
Ms Harawira acknowledged that she was moving forward in order
to help her sons.
Asked how she felt about stepping down, she said: "You know,
that's life."
Te Tai Tokerau MP Hone Harawira, the uncle of the three
charged men, said: "Family remains a cornerstone of my life,
through both the good times and the bad times.
"The matter relating to my nephews is before the court at
this time and I'd rather not comment on the allegations until
the case is
over.
"I have, however, offered my help to settle this in the best
interests of all parties concerned."
- Vaimoana Tapaleao of the New Zealand Herald
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