Media Statement

9 May 2013

Thousands sign petition opposed to new ‘legal high’ store in Manurewa

The Manurewa Local Board tonight received a petition signed by over 1500 local residents and business owners opposed to the new ‘high zone’ store which opened last Monday in Manurewa town centre which sells ‘legal highs’ such as synthetic cannabis and party pills along with a range of other drug related products.

Manurewa Local Board Chair Angela Dalton welcomed the petition which was started by local pharmacy owners Jan and David Lin and was signed by over 1500 people including business owners, local board members, MP’s and residents.

“This is one of many steps that the community is taking to make it very clear that this store is not welcome,” says Ms Dalton.

“The Manurewa Local Board stands beside our community and is heartened by the community led response to this new store. We are especially heartened by the number of young people who have been proactive in doing all they can to oppose this store.

Manurewa Business Association Chairman and Local Board Member Ken Penney also welcomed the petition.

“As a business owner I have had numerous complaints about this new store opening in town. It does nothing to promote the well-being of our community. It does nothing to promote Manurewa Town Centre as being a place to do business and only continues to showcase the negative aspects of our community.” Said Mr Penney.

“This business goes against the grain of the work of the Manurewa Business Association.

Manurewa Local Board Member and 22 year old Simeon Brown is pleased to see the proactive community response to this store.

“While young people are the most at risk by the availability of these drugs and young people are at the forefront of opposing this new store. This petition is only one of many steps that the community is taking to make it clear that this store is not welcome in Manruewa. This Saturday youth leaders from Warriors of Change will be leading a protest outside the store on Saturday morning at 11am. I will be standing alongside them.” Said Mr Brown.

Manurewa Local Board Chair Angela Dalton will present the petition to the Government supporting the Psychoactive Substances Bill to be passed urgently.

ENDS

© Scoop Media