Spin doctors to flossy up Lyttelton

By Chris Hutching

Friday 14th April 2000

Lyttelton Port Company is trying to repair its damaged public image and has shortlisted two public relations firms after receiving expressions of interest from about seven agencies.

The two shortlisted companies are understood to be from the North Island.

On the local scene the port company has annoyed community groups.

For the past five years it has engaged in a battle to relocate a small group of vocal recreational mooring owners. And in the interests of security it recently cordoned off the Lyttelton township from the waterfront with high-wire fencing. More recently the company lost goodwill with its refusal to waive berthing charges for the historic replica ship Endeavour. The fees were eventually paid by local sponsors including a newspaper which highlighted the port's actions. The visit of the old ship attracted record crowds.

On the industrial scene an acrimonious dispute culminated in the death of a union supporter.

Managing director David Viles fanned the flames further, complaining about lost productivity when waterfront workers subsequently attended a funeral service.

A court case arising from the death is due to be heard in the Christchurch District Court where the port's role will come under scrutiny.

A local public relations practitioner said his firm was not unduly concerned at missing out on the shortlist and other firms have also been making backdoor inquiries for what they regard as a challenging client.

A poll carried out by the port on its image in the community found 58% of the sample agreed Lyttelton Port Company had a genuine commitment to working with the local community.

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