Rival gangs step out on hikoi

By RENEE KIRIONA

Patched members of the rival Black Power and Mongrel Mob gangs walked side by side through the streets of central Auckland in the second hikoi against the Foreshore and Seabed Bill.

It was a reflection of how deeply many Maori felt about the issue, said marcher and Maori Party co-leader Pita Sharples.

About 30 gang members were among the estimated 6000 people who turned out to Hikoi2 on Saturday in another bid to pressure the Government into withdrawing the proposed legislation.

"It was great to see them all there, marching in peace," Dr Sharples said.

"They represent the people who don't have a voice. And I suppose they feel that by taking part in this event they will have their voice heard, if not by the Government, then at least their own Maori people."

About three Black Power members rode alongside the hikoi on their Harley-Davidsons, with Maori dressed in traditional warrior costume and apostles from the Ratana Church.

National police cultural issues adviser Wally Haumaha said rolling traffic closures meant there were few traffic problems.

Public reaction to the hikoi ranged from applause to looks of shock as the group marched 6km from Mayoral Drive to Tamaki Drive.

As the marchers neared the park at Okahu Bay a fleet of about 20 waka gathered at the waterfront to meet them.


Many of the marchers were veterans of the first hikoi in May, when more than 20,000 descended on Parliament grounds.

A call from Hone Harawira, who led the first hikoi, for Labour MP John Tamihere to resign from Parliament was applauded by the crowd.

If he did resign, a byelection would be held for Auckland-based Maori seat Tamaki Makaurau.

Dr Sharples said the Maori Party would contest the seat.