Radio New Zealand - Te Reo Irirangi o Aotearoa

A Kaikohe businessman who has been locked out of his own building by squatters says it is absurd police cannot evict them.

Glenn Hannah has been unable to start renovations on a warehouse he bought in the town two months ago, because a group claiming Maori sovereignty rights won't let him in.

He says police have asked him to get a court order supporting his rights to vacant possession before they will act.

In the meantime, Mr Hannah says the group has damaged the building, and have been making money out it by holding a cabaret night and charging entrance.

Mr Hannah says he hopes to have the court order he needs next week.