Sovereignty group issues 2000 'Maori Traveller's Permits'

The "Minister of Police" of a Maori sovereignty group says it has issued at least 2000 "Maori Traveller's Permits" or drivers' licences.

But police are warning motorists using them will be charged and fear others could be duped by the group, which has links to a man accused of running a passport and residency scam targeting Pacific Islanders. Te Akaiimapuhia Maori Land Incorporation's "Minister of Police", Tiare Waaka-Timoti, told the Herald his organisation had issued "at least 2000" of the Maori Traveller's Permits which, he said, allowed people to drive on New Zealand roads.

Mr Waaka-Timoti said the permits were legitimate and recognised under sections of the Te Ture Whenua Maori Land Act 1993 and 1995. "This is a customary practice that is protected through enactment of the Parliament of New Zealand.

"There is nothing illegal and nothing dodgy about it, it's just an option that we choose to participate in."

Mr Waaka-Timoti admitted his group had links with Gerard Otimi, who appeared in court last year, after he sold passport stamps and residency documents for $500.

Mr Waaka-Timoti said there was no charge for the permits: "at this time" and they were open to "anybody that wishes to have the option".

Wiremu Peihopa, aka Billy Griffiths, told the Herald he would continue to use his Maori Traveller's Permit, despite facing a mandatory disqualification of licence.

Police stopped Mr Peihopa in Hamilton on Monday night for driving with illegal number plates before he presented his Maori Traveller's Permit.

He then gave officers his "real" name, Wiremu Peihopa.

"When the officers told him they were aware this wasn't his real name he refused to give his correct details until he realised the longer he wasted police time the longer he would be in custody," said Senior Sergeant Kent Holdsworth.

"It then became apparent that this was the second time the man had been involved in such a situation and ... he now faces a mandatory disqualification from driving for three months."

Mr Peihopa said he did not recognise the legitimacy of the police system and would fight the charge in the Hamilton District Court on Friday.