4 April 2024

Media: Newshub

Topic: Brian Tamaki threat to sue council over Rainbow Storytime event

Enquiry

Wondering if you can provide us with comment on the attached release from the Tamakis. Tamakis sue NZ Councils and Libraries.pdf

Response

From Mayor Tapsell:

“It is our job to invest in and support everyone in our community. Rotorua is a welcoming and inclusive place.

“The Rainbow Storytime event in Rotorua was to be paid for by the Friends of Rotorua Library society, who are not ratepayer funded.

“Our Council is very aware of the financial challenges people are feeling. Unfortunately the event was cancelled at late notice due to safety concerns regarding protests against the event. Because of this, Council has ended up covering this cost which was $600 plus GST.

“It doesn't make sense to pursue legal action as that would cost ratepayers significantly more without delivering any benefit for our community.”