Citizens left out of loop

Plans for a $10 million Viaduct Harbour tribute to Sir Peter Blake were nearly derailed this week because there was little chance for public feedback.

Te Papa and the Maritime Museum scurried to the Blake family for support for the plan after the public swung behind another form of tribute, the purchase of Kaikoura Island, off Great Barrier Island.

Proposed by Herald columnist Brian Rudman, the purchase and renaming of the island would have been an apt tribute to the champion yachtsman. The idea was backed by polls and letters to the editor.

With Te Papa still needing to raise $5.5 million for the Viaduct Harbour tribute (after the Government pledged $2.5 million and Auckland City promised $2 million), a successful "sell" was essential.

On Wednesday Te Papa, Lady Pippa Blake and Sir Peter's brother, Tony Blake, voiced their support for the memorial, with its glass structure housing the winning America's Cup challenger, NZL32.

Public relations consultants said the family would not have had to act if there had been consultation beforehand. Deborah Pead, of Pead PR, said the Te Papa project had been presented as a fait accompli, with little regard for public opinion.