Sea Week Celebration Cancelled
A precautionary consultation with the Maritime Safety Authority raised safety and training issues and has forced cancellation at this late stage of the boat rides on the Inlet which the Guardians of Pauatahanui Inlet had planned to offer to celebrate Seaweek 2004 in early March.
'Cancellation of our planned celebration is a considerable disappointment, said John Wells, Chairperson of the Guardians. 'I have been advised by Wayne Roberts, Manager of Mana Cruising Club, that the small boat owners have withdrawn their vessels from the proposed event.
'This is as a consequence of their Club's precautionary approach to the Maritime Safety Authority on safety and liability issues, which threw up a number of pre-event training requirements. I am hopeful that in a future year, after the required additional preparation, we will be able to reach a successful outcome.
'I am sad at the cancellation, and recognise the disappointment that will be felt by local families at a special opportunity now withdrawn. But we have had yet another reminder that our marine environment requires our utmost respect.
'Local media gave us excellent support. Tickets have now been called back from our four outlets . I thank Plimmerton Pharmacy, Mana Pharmacy, Whitby Post Shop and Challenge Pauatahanui for their willlingness to help, concluded John Wells.
Contacts - John Wells, Chairperson, phone 2341788 or Ken Rae, Publicity for Seaweek, phone 2339614
