Iwi takes stand on youth threat

An iwi is fighting back after elders have been threatened with violence or death by youths high on the drug P.

Kaumatua and kuia of Ngaiterangi iwi in Tauranga say they are being threatened by their grandchildren who take the pure form of methamphetamine.

The elders are learning how to keep themselves safe with protection orders, trespass orders and talking to police about recognising the signs of people taking the drug.

They are also approaching P dealers and manufacturers to tell them of its devastating effect on the tribe and the wider community.

The problems emerged when the iwi launched its Community Action on Youth and Drugs project late last year.

Project leader Paul Stanley said that at the end of the project's meetings elders were describing incidents where they had been threatened by youths on P.

"We have anecdotal evidence that some of the youths have threatened to kill the elders.

"That's the nature of the drug."

The iwi is designing a campaign that highlights the importance of elders to Ngaiterangi.

Police have backed the iwi stance and are to meet project leaders this week to establish the extent of the problem.

Waiariki MP Mita Ririnui, who is of Ngaiterangi descent, congratulated the iwi on its firm stance.

The chairman of the Bay of Plenty Principals Association, Brian Seatter, said there had been no assaults on teachers or students that could be linked to P.

- NZPA