Opotiki – Skippers, crew and activists from the flotilla of boats, which travelled from around the North Island, were welcomed today at a hui in Whangaparoa Bay, which was attended by an estimated 600 people opposed to deep sea oil drilling in the Raukumara Basin, off East Cape.
A flotilla of five yachts – many of whom have opposed French nuclear testing in the Pacific and nuclear fuel shipments through the Tasman Sea were ceremonially welcomed by Te Whānau ā Apanui at around 11 am. The lead flotilla boats departed Auckland last Sunday and have since been joined by boats from the Bay of Islands and Whitianga.
Daniel Mares, skipper of the Vega, said, “Feeling the strength and power that is generating on this issue, the send off in Auckland and Whitianga shows the message is very clear. The Government has misjudged this call and the people of New Zealand do not want or support deep sea drilling in our waters. It’s an honour to stand with Te Whānau ā Apanui on their land.”
Dayle Takitimu, spokesperson for te Whānau ā Apanui, said, “It’s been overwhelming for people to make the effort to stand in solidarity with us. For us, the organisations that have come on board legitimises that this is a national environmental issue. We’re committed to a long-term campaign working collectively with like-minded organisations. The deep sea oil drilling issue is a wave gathering strength that will crash on the shores of Wellington.”
Steve Abel, Greenpeace New Zealand Climate Campaigner said, “We are unified, we are determined. Deep sea oil drilling will not happen in New Zealand waters.”
