Anti-Asian attacks disturbing and unwelcome – Mayor

Manukau mayor Sir Barry Curtis says he is deeply disappointed at the recent strident claims made about Asian migrants in the media by Winston Peters.

Sir Barry says the comments are inappropriate and he does not share Mr Peters’ attitudes.

“Manukau welcomes and celebrates diversity. We do not find it threatening. Our fast-growing Asian migrant community adds greatly to the diversity and richness of everyday life here, as elsewhere in New Zealand. There are teething problems and differences in customs, but that is to be expected and there is nothing wrong with being different.

“In my opinion these new New Zealanders are settling very well into everyday life overall.

“We are fortunate to have the Asian community, which produces hard-working and model citizens and many of the top students in our schools. The achievements of Asian students are extremely impressive, and their families are rightly proud of them. I only wish all cultural groups in the city had the same commitment to education.

“I am delighted to attend many Asian celebrations and social occasions and I work very closely with their community to ensure their interests are represented by the Council.

“The fact is that the future of New Zealand is multicultural and people such as Mr Peters had better get used to it. I am certain his views will remain those of a minority.”

Manukau City Council is currently developing a new settlers policy, and working with Auckland City Council on planning regional migrant resource centres in both cities.

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