SkullandChains Report This Comment Date: April 18, 2009 01:27PM
An attempt by naked newsreader Lisa Lewis to bring Auckland's embattled Boobs
on Bikes parade to Hamilton was thwarted by police yesterday.
Ms Lewis and two friends bared their breasts to ride along Hamilton's main
street but a tip-off to police brought the motorbike stunt to a halt when an
officer carried out a "routine traffic stop".
The 27-year-old part-time lap-dancer wrote to Hamilton City Council chief
executive Michael Redman asking that the controversial parade be held in
Hamilton tomorrow if an Auckland court banned it from Queen St.
Ms Lewis said Auckland City Council's action to have the parade scrapped went
against freedom of expression and that Auckland's loss could be Hamilton's
gain.
"I just think it would be good for Hamilton," she said.
"People are going to be coming into the city to see this and be part of it
... and anything that gets people into the city and opening their wallets gives
shops a chance to make sales."
She said she had only had one negative comment, from her gardener, who said his
wife would not approve.
In her letter to Mr Redman, Ms Lewis said "this type of event puts
down-town 'Hamil-town' on the map and makes it an item of international
interest".
But Mayor Bob Simcock said Hamilton's events portrayed the city as innovative
and creative, and showed a strong association with education, science and
outstanding businesses.
"I don't think this fits into that model. I certainly don't think the
council would be going out of its way to attract or support them."
Ms Lewis and friends completed their ride with tops on, after a police warning.