Call to sack academic over 'racism'

Dr Margaret Mutu's comments have been labelled 'racist' by Ngapuhi leader David Rankin. Photo / NZ Herald

Ngapuhi leader David Rankin has called for the University of Auckland to dismiss prominent Maori academic Professor Margaret Mutu, labelling her the "Robert Mugabe of New Zealand politics".

Mr Rankin made the comment after Professor Mutu said there should be a cap on the number of white people migrating to New Zealand.

Her comments in the Sunday Star Times said the number of people coming from South Africa, England and the United States should be restricted, as they bring attitudes of white supremacy and are destructive to Maori.

Mr Rankin described the comments as "racist".

"Margaret has gone too far this time," he said.

"She obviously thinks of herself as the Robert Mugabe of New Zealand politics, and has caused offence to hundreds of thousands of New Zealanders because of her extreme racist views."

Ms Mutu's remarks follow a leaked Labour Department report, which found Maori are more likely to be against immigration than any other ethnic group.

She said Maori are generally supportive of immigration from Asian countries.

"As a Maori, I welcome white immigrants", he said. "They are the ones most likely to bring employment opportunities for our communities, and we don't see the sort of racism Margaret refers to."

Mr Rankin said Ms Mutu has no place working in a university, but said Auckland University are "scared of her".

"They lack the courage to deal with her, but I think after this episode, they will be having another look at her position and the harm she is bringing to Auckland University."

- Herald Online staff