Irish tourists have been blamed in New Zealand for littering an Auckland beach and getting aggressive with other beach-goers.
Footage from Takapuna Beach last weekend appears to show litter strewn across the area, and a witness has identified a group of roughly 12 Irish people — in a group that included children and babies — as responsible for the mess.
News website stuff.co.nz described the family as a “mob with kids”.
A woman by the name of Krista Curnow told reporters that she was threatened by the family. In a post on her Facebook page, Curnow makes several claims against the group, alleging that all adults present were intoxicated, and that several members of the group “turned violent”.
The post has since gone viral, with over 10,000 reactions on Facebook, 9,000 comments and over 6,000 shares.
The post starts with the clarification: “I WOULD JUST LIKE TO POINT OUT THAT THIS HAS ABSOLUTELY NO REFLECTION ON THE IRISH IN GENERAL! I myself have many family and friends who are Irish and are amazing!”
According to Newshub New Zealand, Inspector Kevin McNaughton said police are investigating the incident and are looking to identify those involved. “Police would like to remind the public that offenders caught illegally dumping rubbish may be issued with a fine of up to $400,” he said.
Mayor of Auckland Phil Goff has also weighed in, writing on his official Twitter account: “Thank you for standing up for our beaches and public spaces. Some people need reminding.”
Thank you for standing up for our beaches and public spaces. Some people need reminding. https://t.co/pGYYv4Tr1h
— Phil Goff (@phil_goff) January 14, 2019
JOE has contacted Waitemata Police District for comment.
LISTEN: You Must Be Jokin’ podcast – listen to the latest episode now!
