21 August 2006

Auckland City decides permit not necessary for Boobs on bikes

Auckland City has reconsidered the necessity of issuing a permit for the "Boobs on bike" parade on Queen Street scheduled for Wednesday, 23 August 2006.

The event organiser and Auckland City have had detailed discussions regarding the logistics of the parade and have reached an agreement about the starting point, the route and the traffic management plan.

These arrangements will maximise public safety and minimise traffic congestion as a result of the parade.

Auckland City councillors were concerned about the perception that issuing a permit condoned the event and asked the chief executive, David Rankin, to review the decision.

In reviewing the decision, Mr Rankin, has decided not to complete the process of issuing a permit for the parade.

His decision has taken the following into account:

* the fact that the driving of motorbikes and vehicles along Queen Street is a lawful activity and the parade promoter intends to proceed anyway,

* having regard to the fact that council officials, police and the parade promoter have agreed on appropriate measures to mitigate traffic congestion issues and maximise public safety and that the promoter has advised he will honour this agreement, and

* the fact that councillors have an understandable concern about the public perception of the granting of a permit.

The "Boobs on bikes" parade will still go ahead, as of right. There is no legal reason why the parade cannot proceed.

The New Zealand Police will be providing a visible road safety presence. Their primary concern is with vehicle movements and to prevent any illegal and potentially unsafe driving.

ENDS

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