Political Path

As well as being one of the nation's most respected and proficient guitarists Billy T K has also become active promoting Maori music and greater political recognition for his people.

He’s representing Maori sovereignty group the the United Tribes or Kohuarau movement after being elected to represent the Mataatua region (Tauranga down to Gisborne and Wairoa).

The goal of the movement is to attempt to gain  support from 75 per cent of Maoridom to earn the right to represent the people as a partner in the Treaty of Waitangi. 

"Maori haven’t fully exercised their rights under the Treaty which is to have their own governance and parliamentary structure. We have that structure and are developing the networks and systems need for self government. I see no light at the end of the tunnel under the present system either for Pakeha or Maori," says Billy. The difficulty is there are so many different factions with their own agendas its difficult to get the unity required. But he’s not daunted. "I believe I can contribute positively."
  Kohuiarau
  Origins of the movement