South Auckland communities vibrant and close-knit – Maori Party
Dr Pita Sharples, Maori Party MP for Tamaki Makaurau 12 September 2008
Maori Party MP for Tamaki Makaurau, Dr Pita Sharples, today vigorously defended South Auckland against negative
stereotypes used by outsiders.
“The Police Association has a vested interest in describing our communities as lawless. Obviously they are lobbying for
more police to boost the strength of their union, so they highlight every incident that involves the police,” said Dr
Sharples.
“I also saw a throwaway comment about us from the designer of a stab-proof vest, which just goes to show how negative
attitudes get entrenched in the minds of people who have probably never visited our communities,” he added.
“The reality is, our communities are tremendously diverse, with vibrant cultures mingling in a lively, creative
environment.
“In our malls, people talk with each other, make music, they dance. The buzz in our markets has to be seen to be
believed. We have huge church congregations of all denominations. Our schools are literally bursting with youth and
life.
“It can be quite in-your-face at times, and maybe outsiders who are not used to it might find that a bit intimidating –
but we love it,” said Dr Sharples.
“Like all huge urban areas, we have our problems, but our lives do not centre on the police and crime and violence. Like
everyone else, we are busy with whanau gatherings, community festivals, school events, speech and sports competitions
and cultural events.
“Where our people have identified problems, they have also sought solutions. After some violent incidents recently,
Asian and other communities got together formally on the marae, for example, which has been just a great experience for
everyone. There are neighbourhood support initiatives in Manurewa and other places, where people have made a commitment
to get to know the people in their street, and to look out for each other,” he said.
“However, ‘P’ is a terrible scourge in our communities, as it is everywhere. ‘P’ respects no-one. Community-based
campaigns against ‘P’ have raised thousands of dollars, have toured the country, trained police and social workers to
recognise the signs and dangers.
“Our communities are starting to realise the danger of ‘P’, and are working on ways to counter it,” said Dr Sharples.
“We are working with the police, community groups, and specialist agencies to get on top of it – because we want to
protect our beautiful way of life, for our children and grandchildren.”
ENDS