By Scott Campbell
The Maori Party's leaders concede that Hone Harawira will probably resign from the party and become an independent mp.
That will leave the party that supports the government with just four members of parliament.
But Maori Party Co-leaders Tariana Turia and Pita Sharples say they've had enough of Harawira's rule-breaking and it'd be best for him to leave.
They were trying to put a brave face on what's been an uncomfortable week.
But the stress of constant questions and criticism was clearly visible. Tariana Turia says she's had enough.
"We have significant issues that we are here to deliver on. on behalf of our people, that is our focus not on an individual who chooses to behave in a particular way."
Turia says she's received over six hundred emails complaining about Hone Harawira's recent sight-seeing trip to Paris, expletive filled email and suggestion that Phil Goff should be shot.
The leaders aren't pushing him yet. But both say Harawira's best going solo.
Sharples says if people in our party feel that they are not responsible to the rules then that makes it very difficult to work.
Harawira will spend two weeks with his supporters and decide where his future lies. He's been told he needs to toe the party line or leave.
3 News understands Harawira often breaks the party's rules and challenges the leaders at their weekly caucus meetings.
Turia says, "This is actually not so much about what has happened in the last week. This is about our Kaupapa our Tikanga not being adhered to and that's why we are in the situation we are in today.
She says Harawira's probably best to be an independent mp.
The party hasn't ruled out expelling Harawira. It apears his stance as an activist and disregard for the rules are at odds with its role in government.
Harawira didn't want to comment today.. but three news understands he knows it's inevitable. He will have to walk.
3 News