Maori tribe leave reserve near Taupo

Members of the Ngati Tutemohuta sub-tribe (hapu) of Waitahanui have left the Awaroa Scenic Reserve, south of Taupo, after camping there and holding a wananga, or workshop, to discuss land grievances and other issues.

Spokeswoman Ngatoru Wall said the group would not tolerate continued "disrespect" of the area.

The group says it is happy for people to visit the reserve to swim and picnic but is angry about illegal camping, and dogs and other animals being taken into the area. It also dislikes people launching small boats on the beach, although the Conservation Department says this is legal.