Andrew Dickens Afternoons

Gisborne's mayor is defending the removal of a controversial statue of Captain Cook.The statue, which has stood on Tītīrangi Hill since 1969, is being moved to Tairāwhiti Museum until a new home is found.The statue had been vandalised multiple times, and is controversial amongst local iwi.However, Meng Foon told Andrew Dickens that the statue isn't even an accurate portrayal of Captain Cook. "I think at that time they received this gift from Lion Breweries that was generous at the time, and though 'Oh yeah, that's something to put up'. He says there is another, more accurate portrayal of Cook on the other side of the river that will remain.The issue has drawn the ire of British tabloid The Daily Mail, but Foon says that there has been no blow back from the community. "They are saying it's about time we're celebrating the local history as well." Local designs are being considered to fill the void. LISTEN TO MENG FOON TALK WITH ANDREW DICKENS ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.