Uproar at tai chi class

Confusion surrounds the offer of free tai chi classes for Wanganui District Council staff and elected members.

On Tuesday, an email was sent by a council health and safety adviser to all staff and elected members, offering them the chance to take part in free 20-minute tai chi sessions, led by instructor Matt Dutton.

The email said tai chi "improves balance, flexibility, strength and fitness, and reduces stress". It said that release from work to attend classes was subject to the relevant manager's approval.

The email provoked an angry reaction from two councillors, with Councillor Michael Laws describing tai chi as "voodoo".

"Tai chi has a philosophy so what's next? Scientology?"

"There is a direct cost to the Wanganui ratepayer through presumably payment, and staff diverted from normal duties."

Councillor Ray Stevens said ratepayers should not be funding the classes "in any way, shape or form".

"This lavish expense is over the top and in these hard times ratepayers are struggling with their rate accounts without this," he said.

However, yesterday afternoon an email was sent by chief executive Kevin Ross to staff and councillors, informing them that the classes were not being offered.

"The idea of tai chi classes being offered came from a staff member," Mr Ross said. "Staff currently undertake a variety of exercise options during their lunch break at no cost to council and perhaps this initiative could be offered along those lines."

Mr Ross said the proposal had not been raised at management level and he apologised for any misunderstanding.