But as juicy as that story could possibly turn out to be, it was eclipsed by yet another Shane Jones saga. The NZ First MP has a knack for publicity, both good and bad, that has so far exceeded his accomplishments. The story of Manea, Footprints of Kupe and Jones' overblown reaction to it only seems to confirm that view. READ MORE:* Shane Jones 'provided reassurance' to ministers, despite declaring conflict* Prime Minister rejects calls to sack Shane Jones, saying conflict was managed* Bunny boiler jokes aside, Shane Jones' threats could be chilling* ACT accuses Shane Jones of contempt of Parliament in privilege complaint* Shane Jones failed to declare 61 ministerial meetings* Ron Mark accused of using his position as a Cabinet Minister to get party votesManea, Footprints of Kupe is a cultural tourism venture in Northland that was awarded $4.6 million in public money in 2018, from the hefty $3 billion Provincial Growth Fund overseen by Jones. Such is the nature of coalition politics when Labour is wedded to a NZ First party that often seems undisciplined.

Source: Stuff March 14, 2019 15:56 UTC