Gannin Ormsby, Nanaia Mahuta's husband, alleged DoC staff members were politically motivated in terminating the contract. It also dismissed Ormsby’s allegation that several DoC staff members who dealt with the Herald were politically motivated in their actions. There were no conflicts of interest related to the DoC contract; Mahuta has never held ministerial responsibility for the department. The PSC’s remit did not extend to the conduct of either politicians or KAS staff or directors. The Department of Conservation dismissed Ormsby’s allegation that several DoC staff members who dealt with the Herald were politically motivated in their actions.

Source: New Zealand Herald May 06, 2023 00:12 UTC