New Zealand First is asking where the preciousness of some Maori will end after reports that some Maori groups are “outraged” by a restaurant in Amsterdam has named itself ‘moko’ and has advertised itself with a picture of a blond with a fake tattoo.

“Is this precious or what?” asked Leader Winston Peters.

“Is this all these people have to worry about? Maori are in poverty, in crime, in jail, in gangs and in poor health and poor housing. Is the name of a restaurant in Amsterdam the biggest problem facing these people?

“Rather than be offended, imitation is the highest form of flattery. This is a sign that we have managed to export our culture overseas and that there is a high degree of good will towards New Zealand in Europe. I note that the restaurant features New Zealand and Australian inspired food, no doubt they also buy and promote our products as well.

“This further highlights the ridiculous idea of trying to copyright an entire culture, as advocated by the present politically correct government. It is physically impossible and silly to try.

“It’s time for people who are so outraged by this to get real. You don’t see the Italians being outraged when we eat pizza, or the British outraged when we play cricket, or the Austrians outraged when someone plays a Mozart CD, so why do these people have to be so precious about this humbug?

ENDS

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