21 August 2006
Silent Majority get a Hearing over Erotica Parade
Auckland City Councillor Scott Milne, when commenting on the city's decision not to issue a permit for the Erotica
Parade, said " This is a small but significant victory for hundreds of Aucklander's who voiced their disapproval at the
City tacitly endorsing a shabby, commercial promotion of an adult sex expo"
Councillors and council employees have received hundreds and hundreds of emails requesting a re-think of the issue of a
permit for the parade, saying the Mayor and City should not be seen to condone a topless parade of porn stars down Queen
Street at midday.
"Many have said this is a storm in a bra-cup, but I think it is fantastic that hundreds of people are prepared to
rationally and politely voice their opinion to the Council and that their voice is seen to be heard. It is a victory in
the ongoing battle against political correctness and current thinking that endorses "Anything goes".
While the promotion is legal and many don't see any harm in a titty parade, I think there is, up until now, a silent
majority, who say "We don't need this - it does nothing for our City, our society or our reputation. It is not the
responsibility of the City Council to promote R18 Sex Expos and we don't need it", Mr Milne added.
The Chief executive has taken a middle line, pragmatic approach to the situation and has instructed officers not to
issue a permit as it is not necessary. As a result of the large public dissatisfaction with the current by-law the Mayor
and Chief Executive have agreed to review the appropriate legislation. A similar parade held in Christchurch was also
not permitted and proved to be a flop.
"The organizer will be delighted with the decision. His aim was always to get as much free media exposure as possible -
and the media have complied."
ENDS