I don't want to defend Brown - or Turia, just to point out that it seems as though every corner of the media/political establishment has coalesced far more quickly and effectively in their opposition to Brown than would be the case if he wasn't brown (the colour).

I'm not saying that means they're all racists, but as Kanoa pointed out, there seems to be two sets of standards.

Oops, yeah, his denial of an exemption would be very justified.

Agreed.

That's correct. Hip hop started as an expression of an oppressed urban minority, sometimes manifesting as rebellious partying - but also at times as militant and aggressive resistance to the political and cultural status quote. Run DMC, PE, NWA are just a few examples, and the reason why hip hop resonates in Maori culture.

Turia's support is reflexive because there is undoubtedly a racial element here. There is just never this level of vitriol when a white person with priors tries to visit (that I recall anyway).

But, just for complete clarity, I think Chris Brown is a douche, and I hope he gets banned.