Thursday, October 29, 2026

‘Woke’ response to GPs te reo criticism forces him overseas

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A GP with over 40 years’ experience has left New Zealand after the Medical Council ordered him to complete a year-long educational programme over a private email criticising the use of te reo Maori.

Dr David Smylie, who had never faced a Medical Council complaint before, apologised to the recipient, which she accepted.

He was however still ordered to complete 12 sessions on colonisation and institutional racism as well as complete two essays. He refused to write the essays on principle.

The Free Speech Union (FSU) says the case highlights concerns about professional regulation and the loss of experienced doctors in an already stretched industry.

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