Kahukura Productions Liquidation Fiasco
Judith Tizard should put down her knitting and front up to answer the basic questions about public money and the Film
Commission’s involvement in the Kahukura Productions fiasco, according to the National Party’s spokeswoman for Arts,
Culture and Heritage.
“When millions of dollars of public money is involved it’s totally unacceptable for Judith Tizard to shirk her
ministerial responsibility,” says Katherine Rich.
“She needs to explain why $2.2 million of public money was given to Kahukura Productions by the Film Commission when it
was obvious that the company was already having financial difficulties.
“She also needs to explain why she is so relaxed about the $180,000 of public money granted for the film unit’s
post-production of Kombi-Nation being diverted to other projects.
“If a WINZ beneficiary buys a Playstation with a special needs grant intended for a fridge, that beneficiary is in big
trouble with the Department.
“Here we seem to have a similar situation on a grander scale and the Minister doesn’t bat an eye-lid or raise a finger
to order an explanation,” Katherine Rich says.
“Judith Tizard’s ‘no show’ on this tough issue is telling. It seems the Arts and Culture Associate Minister is happy to
snuggle up to warm stories about ‘Lord of the Rings’ or cheque presentations, but not when the issue is a tough one.
“I believe Judith Tizard needs to understand that the Arts portfolio is more than sipping champagne at glamorous film
premieres and exhibition openings.
“This issue cries out for a proper investigation.
“If Judith Tizard continues to ignore her responsibilities as a Minister, then Michael Cullen should intervene, seeing
that IRD has been listed as one of the major creditors he has a responsibility to the taxpayers of New Zealand,“
Katherine Rich says.