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November 03, 2025
Tamihere Responds to Resignation Calls with Explosive Party Timeline
Atereano Mateariki
Posted On November 3, 2025
Te Pāti Māori President John Tamihere has struck back at calls for his resignation, releasing an emotional and detailed account of internal tensions within the party, particularly involving MPs Mariameno Kapa-Kingi and Takuta Ferris.
Yesterday, the Te Tai Tonga Electorate Executive launched a petition calling for Tamihere to step down, accusing him of failing to act in good faith or uphold the principles of aroha, pono, and tika.
Tamihere’s response, titled The Anatomy of Madness, outlines his involvement in the party since 2019, when he joined to support Waiariki MP Rawiri Waititi, his son-in-law.
He claims that on 18 July 2025, he became aware that MPs Kapa-Kingi and Ferris were seeking support to challenge Waititi and Debbie Ngarewa-Packer for the co-leadership roles.
He also alleges financial mismanagement and a media campaign led by Kapa-Kingi aimed at undermining party unity.
Tamihere referenced past tensions, including opposition to Hauraki-Waikato MP Hana-Rawhiti Maipi-Clarke’s placement on the party list in 2023.
He insists the leadership remains intact and focused on defeating the current Government, accusing the Kapa-Kingis of prioritising ego over kaupapa.
Tamihere concluded by urging dissenters to follow the example of Hone Harawira, leave and start their own party if they disagree.
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