Wellywood protest called off

Wellington Airport's boss says the company is listening to views on its proposed sign. Photo / Supplied

Protesters opposed to Wellington Airport's proposed Wellywood sign have called off another demonstration after the sign's backers said they would reconsider the plan.

Wellington Airport this week said it would go ahead with plans to build the sign on a Miramar hillside by the airport.

But it is now saying it will reconsider after city councillors voted 10-4 against the move.

The proposal has provoked strong reactions, including a drive-by protest at the airport and a 25,000-member Facebook group against the sign.

Drive-by protest co-ordinator Andy Boreham said yesterday that a protest planned for Monday would be cancelled as a sign of good faith.

"We were delighted to learn Wellington International Airport is reconsidering its decision following the Wellington City Council resolution against the sign," he said.

"We would applaud the airport if it changed its mind over the sign, and as a sign of good faith that we believe it really is listening to the council and the wishes of the vast majority of Wellington residents, we have agreed to suspend our protest action."

The airport has received a letter from Wellington Mayor Celia Wade-Brown urging it to reconsider the 30m-long, 8m-high sign, which mimics the internationally known Hollywood sign in Los Angeles.

Airport chief executive Steve Fitzgerald said officials were aware of the range of views on the sign.

"We are concerned by some of the comments being made in the media and on social media sites regarding the sign," he said.

"The airport is monitoring opinion closely on this matter and will continue to do so."

Disdain for the sign has come from many sources, including Prime Minister John Key.

- NZPA