| AUCKLAND: For five days now 460 boat people have been waiting on the Norwegian freighter MV Tampa awaiting a decision on whether they can land on Australian soil. With Auckland being the home of the America's Cup I think that it's only fitting that we should welcome these Boat people to out friendly city of sails.
Everyone knows that these yachting types are exactly the type of people that New Zealand needs to attract in order to give our economy a well-timed kick-start. They are usually well educated and from very wealthy families. It costs a lot of money to practice and compete in regattas after all. If you want proof of what a few Boat people can do to an economy one need only look as far back as 2000 when New Zealand successfully defended the America's cup. Many of the world's richest boat people flocked to the viaduct basin and spent millions on food accommodation and associated tourist activities. And who will forget the impact having so many racing teams in Auckland had on the vibrancy of the city. The boys from the Prada team, the Americans, the Swiss, the Australians all added culture and excitement to the city both on and off the water. Who can tell what kind of effect the addition of 460 new yachties will have on Auckland! So come on Australia if you don't want these fabulous people to live on your shores how about sharing them around with your old friends here in Auckland. We are more than happy to welcome sportspeople of any nationality, especially those nice tall blond Norwegians. |
| Auckland Should Welcome Boat People |
Monday, 01 October 2001 12:00
