25/08/2026
There are always two sides to the story.
PUBLIC STATEMENT
25 August 2026
Disappointment at Recent Events and Social Media Commentary
I am deeply disappointed that matters which began as internal discussions concerning the Shubz Says So programme and Radio Aotearoa have now developed into public social media commentary involving myself, my husband, our organisation and other individuals.
From 3 August 2026, Radio Aotearoa had been working through a number of matters with Martel Wikeepa and the Shubz Says So programme team.
Those discussions initially took place through WhatsApp and concerned the voluntary programme, broadcasting arrangements, financial expectations and its future on Radio Aotearoa.
Once the matters became formal, Aotearoa Media responded formally and documented its position.
During the subsequent exchanges, we received written and voice communications which caused us significant concern. In our view, some communications appeared to suggest that unless particular financial expectations were met, information concerning myself, my husband and others could be made public.
We were surprised and disappointed by this development.
We subsequently received further information which caused us concern about whether the Radio Aotearoa dispute had become connected with other matters involving the Manurewa local government elections and allegations which I had previously raised with the appropriate authorities.
I want to be very clear: I am not making a finding that any individual has committed a criminal offence.
That is not my role.
However, where communications are received that we believe could reasonably raise concerns about threats, harassment, intimidation or pressure being applied to individuals, the appropriate course of action is to preserve the material and provide it to the authorities.
That is what we have done.
Relevant communications, including messages and other material, have been referred to the New Zealand Police for them to assess independently.
I will not attempt to determine through Facebook, radio or the media whether any offence has occurred. That is properly a matter for Police.
I am disappointed though to receive a voice message from a close associate of Ms Latu that Martel Wikeepa has teamed up with Phylis Latu a Manurewa Local Board member to in her words, destroy us. Further concern is that Cr Daniel Newman is also involved in this matter. This informant did not wish to be named.
This information has been past on to the rightful groups for them to confirm this.
We Will Not Be Intimidated
When I was first approached regarding concerns surrounding the Manurewa elections, I did not expect the situation to become as personal or as difficult as it has.
However, neither my husband nor I will be pressured into abandoning legitimate concerns simply because the situation has become uncomfortable.
If people disagree with us, they are entitled to do so.
If people believe we are wrong, they are entitled to challenge what we have said and provide evidence.
But attempts to pressure, threaten or intimidate anyone are another matter and should be assessed through the proper channels.
We will cooperate fully with any inquiries by the appropriate authorities and provide the material in our possession when requested.
Radio Aotearoa
The situation involving Shubz Says So is also being dealt with separately by Aotearoa Media.
Radio Aotearoa has attempted to work through these matters professionally and directly with Martel and his team.
Following recent developments, management has made the decision to stand the programme down indefinitely while the situation is reviewed.
We acknowledge the contribution Martel and the Shubz Says So team have made to Radio Aotearoa. This situation does not require us to diminish that contribution.
However, we also have a responsibility to protect our people, our organisation and the integrity of our broadcasting platforms.
There will be no trial by social media from us.
We will preserve the information we have, provide relevant material to the appropriate authorities, cooperate with any inquiries and allow due process to take its course.
I am disappointed that matters have reached this point, but I remain committed to dealing with them professionally.
We will stand strong on what we believe is right, we will follow the proper processes, and we will not be intimidated into silence.
Ngā mihi,
Raewyn Bhana JP QSM
Acting Chief Executive Officer
Aotearoa Media Ltd / Radio Aotearoa Network
