Council u-turns on 'Boobs on bikes'

Auckland City Council has u-turned on its decision that a permit was necessary for the "Boobs on bike" parade on Queen Street.

Councillors had been concerned that the issuing of a permit gave the perception that the event, featuring up to 30 topless porn stars in cars or on the back of motorcycles, was condoned.

They asked chief executive David Rankin to review the decision and he has now decided not to complete the process of issuing permission for Wednesday's parade.

Mr Ranking considered the fact that driving motorbikes and vehicles along Queen Street is lawful and the parade promoter intends to proceed anyway.

He also took into account that council officials, police and the parade promoter have agreed on measures to ease traffic congestion issues and ensure public safety.

A council spokesman said: "The event organiser and Auckland City have had detailed discussions regarding the logistics of the parade and have reached an agreement about the starting point, the route and the traffic management plan.

"These arrangements will maximise public safety and minimise traffic congestion as a result of the parade."

Police will be providing a visible road safety presence, with their main concern being vehicle movements and preventing any illegal or unsafe driving.

- NZHERALD STAFF