A marae once associated with Maori Party co-leader Pita Sharples is denying that it has not acted on allegations of fraud.The Truth newspaper reported today that an unnamed person had complained to the police that there was evidence that money had been si
A marae once associated with Maori Party co-leader Pita Sharples is denying that it has not acted on allegations of fraud.
The Truth newspaper reported today that an unnamed person had complained to the police that there was evidence that money had been siphoned out of Hoani Waititi Marae accounts and the Auckland marae was not taking action.
Marae board chairman Waiora Arama said he rejected completely the claim that it did not act on allegations of fraud.
"In September 2009 the trust board of Hoani Waititi marae was made aware that there were serious anomalies in the marae's accounts. An initial investigation identified that one individual may be responsible," Mr Arama said.
"Since that time the trust board has engaged the services of a forensic accountant to undertake a full investigation, of which we are still in the process of completing. Last month the board also engaged with new auditors.
"Once all the relevant information has been gathered, the trust board will make the appropriate decisions in the best interests of the marae and the public."
Dr Sharples founded the marae but resigned as chairman when he entered Parliament.
