Former Gisborne mayor Meng Foon faces turbulence as he steps into his new role as Race Relations Commissioner.
The Christchurch mosque attacks, Oranga Tamariki's treatment of Maori children, the Ihumatoa land dispute - contentious race relations issues are front and centre.
Justice Minister Andrew Little says Mr Foon, who can walk in multiple worlds including Maori, Chinese and Pakeha, is the right person for the job.
Mr Foon joined out Auckland studio to speak with Corin Dann.
