Te Puni Kokiri boss Leith Comer has paid back taxpayer money used for his wife's flights and accommodation to attend events in Auckland.

The chief executive of the Ministry of Maori Development told a Maori Affairs select committee meeting on Wednesday he had written a cheque for $1806 to cover the costs.

Mr Comer's wife attended events last year including a Style Pasifika event during the Rugby World Cup, the Maori Sports Awards and Opera at the Pa in Rotorua.

The revelation of the spending comes at a time when Te Puni Kokiri is looking to slash about 50 jobs.

State Services Minister Jonathan Coleman on Tuesday asked State Services Commissioner Iain Rennie to speak to Mr Comer regarding his wife's expenses.

Mr Comer had said he felt it was expected that his wife would join him at events.

However, he said on Wednesday he had decided to repay the money because of public perceptions.

"Rather than have an endless debate and get distracted, I thought the best way was to refund my wife's costs of those functions," he told media.

"People might perceive this as me glad-bagging around, but actually it's work I'm doing out there, in terms of engagement with Maori and encouraging them in terms of their success."

Mr Comer says there are events he feels it's "appropriate" for his wife to attend, where he has a hosting responsibility, but in future he may pay her travel and accommodation costs himself.

He was also asked on Wednesday about the expense of adding a towbar to his car, but says that was Te Puni Kokiri's decision.

"I didn't specifically ask for a towbar. There is one on my car and that adds to the flexibility of use of that car so I think it's an expense well worth it."