New mayor backtracks on karakia

New Kaipara Mayor Craig Jepson has backed down from a controversial karakia ban, announcing yesterday that future council meetings will be opened with a karakia, statement or reflection as chosen by councillors.

The announcement came as anger mounted nationwide over Jepson’s decision at a November 30 meeting to shut down new Ma¯ori Ward councillor Pera Paniora as she tried to open the meeting with a karakia or blessing.

A petition has gathered thousands of signatures and a peaceful protest march had been planned through Dargaville next Wednesday.

A statement from Jepson, released at 9am yesterday, said: “An open and

Councillors acknowledge there

will always be contrasting views.

Mayor Craig Jepson

frank discussion took place today [December 7] between the Kaipara District mayor and the eight councillors present.

“The purpose of the discussion was to, as best as we can, accommodate the needs of all elected members.

“Agreement was reached that each councillor will have the opportunity on a rotating basis immediately prior to the opening of the ordinary council meeting to recite karakia, make statements of choice and forms of reflection.

“This issue has been a stressful process for members and family.

“Councillors acknowledge there will always be contrasting views.

“However, we unite to strengthen our council in a mutual desire to maintain and improve the communities we serve.”

The mayor originally defended his decision, saying it was because he led a secular council made up of people of many beliefs and ethnicities.

Jepson said he had been inundated with messages supporting his position since the November 30 meeting in Mangawhai.

At the same time, his decision to ban karakia has also been widely criticised, including by iwi leaders and Race Relations Commissioner Meng Foon.