My comments are in support of Mr John Cronin and the 10 delegates that escorted Mr Bayfield, who as stated by Tim Short, Ohauiti – was an outstanding CEO of the BOP Regional Council, who was fittingly farewelled for someone of his mana. It was then inappropriate for the Chair of the Regional Council John Cronin, along with an entourage of 10 others, to a ceremony in Christchurch to welcome Mr Bayfield to his next job – at our expense.
Mr Short, to me this is an honour for us as the community of Tauranga City for Mr John Cronin and 10 members of the entourage party that accompanied Mr Bayfield to Christchurch to partake in such protocol. A Koha must be placed before the dignitaries accompanying Mr Bayfield to cover their expenses etc.
This protocol is noted in our Maori custom. We do not allow our men or women to travel by themselves without an escort. Mr Short don't assume you know all, that was not a welcome to Mr Cronin – that position was handing Mr Bayfield over to be welcomed by Christchurch Regional Council members. Insensitive extravagance has got nothing to do with this.
'It's Maori Mana, me te wehi, me nga Tikanga o toku iwi.” Tena Koe
Mary Dykstra, Mount Maunganui.