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