Maori activist warns of taniwha

A Northland taniwha is set to disrupt Waitangi Day celebrations unless the Government acknowledges his existence, Maori activist Titewhai Harawira says.

Opponents of a Northland prison at Ngawha - an area the taniwha Takauere is believed to frequent - are warning of trouble unless the mythical creature is recognised by Prime Minister Helen Clark.

Takauere will be the focus of a protest at the prison site, expected to involve hundreds of disgruntled Ngapuhi who believe the prison is culturally inappropriate.

If Ngapuhi's concerns were ignored, the site would be occupied. Mrs Harawira warned it could lead to massive protest action on Waitangi Day.