Did Christchurch snub Dalai Lama?

The Dalai Lama during an interview in Auckland. Photo / Kenny Rodger

Christchurch City Council has been accused of ignoring the Dalai Lama during his recent visit, citing the city's ties with China as a possible reason for the snub.

New Zealand Tibetan community representative Thuten Kesang said he was disappointed the council "did not lift a finger to help" the the Tibetan spiritual leader, Fairfax Media reported.

"I'm absolutely disappointed and ashamed that not one member of the Christchurch City Council, or yourself, welcomed His Holiness to Christchurch," he said in a letter to Christchurch Mayor Bob Parker.

Mr Kesang, who organised the Dalai Lama's June visit, said he had asked for council help, including helping the spiritual leader clear customs quickly and secure a speaking venue.

But he said that no help was provided. A New Zealand Tibetan trust spent $40,000 covering the visit, including hiring the CBS Canterbury Arena for a free public event.

It was disappointing that no councillors met the Dalai Lama.

"One of them could have given five minutes to welcome His Holiness.

"Chinese are putting a lot of money into Christchurch and I think this is what has driven them back," he said.

Council public affairs general manager Lydia Aydon said Mr Parker could not meet the Dalai Lama because he was in hospital recovering from surgery and no other councillors were asked to fill in because the Dalai Lama was visiting Christchurch in a private rather than official capacity,

- NZPA