Canning of Proposed Auckland Brothel Welcomed

Family First NZ is welcoming news that the Chow Brothers ‘sex-hotel’ in central Auckland is being canned, but is still questioning why it was ever approved in the first place.

“This is great news for families in NZ. A proposed ‘sex hotel’ in the central city area was a shameful decision which was offensive to many families and would have opened the floodgates to other similar red-light developments,” says Bob McCoskrie, National Director of Family First NZ.

“The proposed mega-brothel was not just a stand-alone brothel in a ‘red light’ area. It was to be part of a building which would be used by children and families because of its restaurants, accommodation and entertainment areas which could hold wedding receptions, conferences, kids’ activities etc.”

“But the main issue was that it was also to be located close to residential apartments, hotels, backpacker accommodation, churches, the Auckland City Mission, family restaurants, and opposite the main entrance to a major tourist attraction - SkyCity.”

“The Auckland Council ignored the overwhelming number of submissions questioning the location and the effect of the brothel on the character of the central city area. They also ignored the provisions of the Resource Management Act, the Prostitution Reform Act and the council’s own District Plan which requires it to give due consideration to the location of the mega-brothel and to consider issues such as ‘adverse effects’, activities ‘likely to cause a nuisance or serious offence to ordinary members of the public using the area’, and ‘compatibility with the existing character’ of the area.”

“Why did the Chow brothers get preference over the welfare of families? Auckland Council gave the green light to the big bold ‘red light’ in the heart of the city where there are tourists and families and children. This was completely unacceptable,” says Mr McCoskrie.

“Today’s news is greatly welcomed.”
ENDS

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