Summarised by Centrist
Dunedin councillor Cr Lee Vandervis faces potential censure following a series of comments about Māori appointments and protocols. This comes after a Code of Conduct complaint was lodged by fellow councillor Cr Marie Laufiso late last year.
Vandervis, who previously made headlines by taking the council to the Supreme Court over a $12 parking ticket, has been accused of inappropriate and racist remarks.
His contentious emails, which he shared on his blog, criticised the “Inappropriate Maorification” of significant artworks and opposed tribal protocols required to enter a marae.
“I am not prepared to submit to the sexist, racist and tribal ritual requirements that have been spelled out in order for me to be able to enter ‘safely’ on this marae,“ he wrote.
Vandervis also refused to participate in Te Pae Māori, which includes sitting councillors and local rūnanga representatives, arguing that he represents all Dunedin residents and shouldn’t be dictated by an “elite” group representing a small fraction of voters.
The council’s report, expected to be discussed on July 31, confirms the complaint against Vandervis has been upheld.
Editor’s Note: Several important issues need clarification. Firstly, there’s a constitutional question: can council management impose restrictions on an elected representative of the people?
Secondly, regarding the marae Vandervis was complaining about—was it built by ratepayers or is it private property? If it’s the latter, the owners can require guests to follow any protocols they choose.
Thirdly, has Cr Vandervis been inconsistent in applying his objections? If so, this could weaken his argument.
