Chair’s Resignation Allows Te Mängai Päho Fresh Start

Te Mangai Paho Board Chair Mr Toby Curtis today tendered his resignation to the Minister of Maori Affairs, following the release of the external review into the way the organisation dealt with the employment of a former employee.

Mr Curtis told the Minister that while the report did not find any systemic failure with Te Mangai Paho, the organisation has been the subject of intense scrutiny since February this year and hoped that his resignation will allow the organisation to continue its important work out of the political and public spotlight.

“Since receiving the report last Friday I have carefully considered the best interests of Te Mangai Paho, and while it is with regret that I have made the decision to resign, I am confident that this move will allow all parties the opportunity to move on,” said Mr Curtis.

Mr Curtis was initially appointed to the Board of Te Mangai Paho in 1995, and has been Chair of the Board for this time.

Long-time Maori Broadcaster Paora Maxwell, said Mr Curtis had contributed greatly to broadcasting and Te Reo Maori initiatives in New Zealand for many years. Not just through Te Mangai Paho, but also through his voluntary and academic work.

“I am saddened that Toby will no longer be with the Board, but trust he will continue to support the kaupapa in whatever challenge he takes on next. His skills and experience will be missed by Te Mangai Paho and Maori broadcasters alike,” said Mr Maxwell.

Mr Curtis’s contribution to Maori Broadcasting during his eight years with Te Mangai Paho include:

Increased performance by the Agency Increased quality and modernisation of Maori broadcasting Overseeing the increased growth in Maori radio and television The emergence of a growing Maori production sector Significant contribution to Te Reo Maori

The Minister of Maori Affairs accepted Mr Curtis’s resignation at a meeting with the Board earlier this afternoon.

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