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A Far North activist says he’s standing as mayor to highlight what he sees as a conflict of interest by the incumbent.
Environmentalist Reuben Porter of Te Rarawa says Wayne Brown headed the territorial local authority that will make important decisions about mining while also owning shares in a mining company seeking a permit to explore in the region.
He says working in Australia has shown him the long term effects of mining.
"Once you start, it’s there forever. Even when the mining companies leave, you’re still left with the issues of pollution and everything, you’ve got to deal with that and because I’m here, my children are here, I’ve been here 20 generations on this land, guess who’s going to have to take that bill on. It’s going to be me," Mr Porter says.
Wayne Brown has still not confirmed he will run again, but former Northland MP John Carter is also keen on the job.
Copyright © 2013, UMA Broadcasting Ltd
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