Business impressed by Brash interest in power cut

Media Release

Newmarket Business Association

16 June 2006

Business impressed by Brash's interest in power cut

New Zealand's leading retail district and the longest affected by Monday's power black-out, Newmarket, was impressed overall by Dr Brash's visit today to talk to businesses facing substantial losses.

On Monday power didn’t come on till 4.10pm in Newmarket with some businesses not switched on until after 6pm – 10 hours after it was cut. The Newmarket Business Association has since written to lines company Vector asking for an explanation as to why Auckland's second largest commercial district was the last area to have power restored, forcing 95% of businesses to lose a whole day's trading.

"Retailers were coming out of their shops at lunchtime today to chew Dr Brash's ear about Monday. Everyone was very grateful that at least Don Brash bothered to take an interest and listen," said Cameron Brewer, head of the Newmarket Business Association.

"We haven’t heard a squeak from the Minister of Energy who should be in the South Island high country working a spade but instead has fled the country on some overseas junket.

"Nor have we heard from the Minister of Auckland Issues, which is amazing given that Monday's blackout will prove to be Auckland’s biggest issue this winter. She seems preoccupied joking around with people in Wellington dressed up as battery hens. It's all very disappointing.

"As for Transpower and Vector, they continue to blame each other for Newmarket being the lowest of low priority, and no one’s prepared to even apologise. It has cost us millions and has really whacked business confidence," he said.

ENDS

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