We have a beautiful region populated by a few ugly idiots who wrecked a visit to Whangarei on Sunday for a group of Japanese girls.
The girls are studying English in Auckland, and had saved hard for their trip to Northland, only to have their car broken into and possessions stolen within hours of arriving in Whangarei.
The Northern Advocate has invited the girls back - and Jeroen Jongejans, chairman of the Northland Tourism Development Group, has kick-started a public appeal with his own generosity, and a few quick phone calls. Jeroen co-owns tourism business Dive Tutukaka, and did not hesitate when asked if he could take the girls out on his boat Perfect Day.
He also made a few calls, as they say, and thanks to Jeroen we also have free accommodation at the Tutukaka Holiday Park for a night, and free dinner at nearby Snapper Rock.
If you can contribute towards hosting the girls, or would simply like to send them a message, email me at editor@northernadvocate.co.nz
Let's show these girls that the majority of Northlanders are great hosts - not mindless idiots.- Craig Cooper, editor.