Wellingtonians need to get in behind Carnival
The Cuba Street Carnival is a fantastic celebration of Wellington's creativity and uniqueness, and every effort must be made to make sure it continues, Wellington Central MP Grant Robertson said today.
"The news that next year's Carnival has been cancelled is extremely disappointing. Thousands of Wellingtonians have enjoyed the festival over the past decade, and it has very much become part of our cultural calendar. I think we owe it to the people of Wellington to do what we can to keep it going," Grant Robertson said.
"Wellington City Council has been a strong supporter of the carnival, and I would urge it to continue to do so. But the Carnival can not rely on the Council alone for support.
“This is an opportunity for businesses in Wellington to get in behind something that is uniquely Wellington, and could be marketed to attract visitors from across New Zealand.
"I will be contacting the Chamber of Commerce and other business groups and owners to see if there are potential supporters that can be identified. I am keen to work with Chris Morley-Hall and his team to see what can be done to rescue the Carnival.
"One of the great things about Wellington is the range of events that we host. Events such as the Sevens and Festival of the Arts are important, but so is celebrating the vitality and diversity represented by the Cuba Street Carnival.
“I urge all Wellingtonians to get in behind this iconic event," Grant Robertson said.
