Chris Hipkins says funding gang-linked programme was a mistake

Labour leader Chris Hipkins has stated that his party was wrong to provide funding to a Mongrel Mob-run addiction programme while in power. The $2.75 million in Proceeds of Crime funding was approved in 2020 for Hard 2 Reach, a consultancy run by Mongrel Mob honorary life member Harry Tam, to deliver the Kahukura marae-based rehabilitation programme. Hipkins said that while supporting meth addiction treatment is necessary, giving money directly to gangs is wrong.

The funding decision was supported by the police, the Ministry of Health, the Department of Corrections, and the Ministry of Social Development. Hipkins stated he was not a portfolio minister at the time and was unsure if the decision ever went to Cabinet. However, a redacted July 2023 Cabinet paper shows that ministers discussed government agencies contracting with gangs and gang associates.

The political shift follows recent controversy involving Green and Te Pāti Māori MPs and candidates photographed with Mongrel Mob members. Hipkins has ruled out any future funding for gang-led social services and stated he would block Green or Te Pāti Māori MPs from holding justice-related ministerial roles in a coalition.

Harry Tam, the leader of Hard 2 Reach, accused Hipkins of throwing former Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern "under the bloody bus". Tam argued that the backlash against the gang's participation in political events "reeks of fascism" and claimed Hipkins' position was motivated by political expediency.

How it developed

• Wed 21 Oct, 12:14pmHarry Tam accused Hipkins of using political expediency to change his stance for votes.

Where reports differ

• Hipkins stated he was unsure if the funding decision went to Cabinet, whereas the Taxpayers' Union cited a 2023 Cabinet paper suggesting the topic was discussed.

Compiled from reports by NZ Herald, The Post and Stuff.