PM distances himself from Erebus controversy
Spokesperson says PM Key did receive text from Mike Pero about Mt Erebus flight but organisational details not discussed
26 November 2009
A spokesperson from the Prime Minister's office is clarifying John Key's involvement in a charter flight to Antarctica for relatives of Mt Erebus victims.
Air New Zealand is taking six family members to the crash site where a memorial service will take place to mark the 30th anniversary of the tragedy which happened on November 28.
Businessman Mike Pero is organising another flight for the families and friends of the Erebus victims, which will take place at the end of January and says he ran his idea past Mr Key. According to a spokesperson for Mr Key, the Prime Minister received a text from Mr Pero, asking if he would be available to go on the Airbus flight and Mr Key indicated he would be willing if his scheduled permitted it.
However, it is understood the issue of organising the flight was never raised with the Prime Minister, nor did he give any approval for what Mr Pero was doing.
Air New Zealand has accused Mr Pero of being opportunistic and the flight of being commercially driven. It says comments from family members received last night included ?this is a crass and opportunistic stunt,? "the dignity of this anniversary is compromised," "his timing is ambush marketing of the worst variety" and "disgusting is not even a strong enough word".
The daughter of an Erebus victim spoken to today says it should be up to victims' families to decide if they want to be part of Mr Pero's chartered flight, where tickets could cost up to $9,000. She says the controversy comes at a deeply distressing time for families and is unnecessary.
Andrew Bond, who lost his parents in the crash, says he was apprehensive when he first heard of the venture, but now thinks it is a good idea.
"I see this as an opportunity for people to go to the ice and see where their loved ones died."
Mr Bond does not think there is any commercial or opportunistic motive behind Mr Pero's idea.
Air New Zealand is also marking the first anniversary of the A320 crash off the coast of Perpignan in France this weekend. Some family and friends of the New Zealanders who perished will travel to Perpignan for a service and the unveiling of a memorial plaque. An anniversary service will also be held in Auckland.
Five New Zealanders and two German pilots died when the plane stalled a number of times before rearing up and plunging into the sea.
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