A conservative lobby group has laid a formal complaint against Auckland's controversial Boobs on Bikes parade.
Family First NZ laid the complaint with police today against the parade which is planned for Auckland's Queen St in August. National director of Family First NZ Bob McCoskrie said he was calling on the police to enforce the law and prevent offensive actions happening in a public place.
"This parade is an advertisement for the porn industry which is simply a business, with no regard for the welfare and protection of families who are exposed to offensive aspects of the parade.
"It is certainly not a charitable family-friendly event like the Santa Parade or a sports event or celebration."
The parade drew thousands of people last year, as an assortment of porn stars, erotic dancers, models and a few drag queens, exposed their breasts downtown.
Mr McCoskrie said the event was in breach of the Crimes Act. "It will also now be in breach of a new bylaw just passed by the Auckland City Council (Bylaw 20.6.9 - Public Places 2008) banning public events likely to be offensive."
Most New Zealanders knew and accepted it was indecent and inappropriate to be topless in a public place, which was why there was no acceptance of such behaviour in schools, workplaces, retail shops or public gatherings, he said.
"For those who stand for decency in public, and who seek to protect families and children, we argue strongly that a parade during lunchtime down a major street will cause widespread offence to families and children who may be there for completely unrelated matters, and as it is a highly public area, is therefore illegal and should be stopped by the police."
The parade, which last year had council approval, was organised by then Auckland mayoral candidate Steve Crow to promote the Erotica Expo, an event which organisers described as "not only about live stage shows and jelly wrestling".
