“As the initiator of the National Erebus Memorial over seven years ago, it is a matter of real regret to me, and the
Erebus families I am sure, that the process has taken so long to establish the national memorial to the Erebus air
accident of 1979, still New Zealand’s worst peacetime disaster. From the recent report and photographs the recent
extreme weather events have clearly rendered the Dove-Myer Robinson Park site unusable as a safe memorial site.
I commend the Government, the Ministry of Culture & Heritage, Ngati Whatua Orakei, and Auckland Council as they now consider the best new site. I recall the significant
consultation with Erebus families about the key characteristics regarding the memorial and site; which indicated
families wanted a memorial that was easily accessible, attractive, and not in a cemetery nor at Auckland International
Airport.
I am confident about the new planning processes outlined by the Ministry that the families’ views will be well taken
into account as a new site is decided upon. I would ask all New Zealanders to continue to be respectful to the bereaved
Erebus families and for us collectively to do all we can to ensure that a suitable, welcoming National Erebus Memorial
is established. Further, as an aviation chaplain, my plea would be for pastoral urgency, as some senior Erebus family
members, particularly the many surviving spouses and siblings of victims, are now elderly and do not want to miss the
very special opening and dedication of the National Erebus Memorial.”