Men buckle up in high heels
Men have shown they are not afraid to try on red, frilly, and even knee-high heels to highlight the issue of domestic violence.
Some of Palmerston North’s most prominent men were challenged to ‘‘walk a mile in her shoes’’ – and they did more than that.
Politicians, city councillors and military personnel donned high heels and raced around an obstacle course in The Square.
The high heel dash was part of White Ribbon events held to raise awareness of domestic violence.
The White Ribbon ride – a week-long motorcycle tour – began on Thursday.
It arrived in Palmerston North over the weekend.
In teams, the men raced through the course, tasked with picking up a soft toy and balancing a tray of drinks as they rushed around in their new footwear.
City councillor Vaughan Dennison stole the show with a pair of black high-heeled boots.
Palmerston North mayor Grant Smith donned his own pair of red heels and raced through.
Smith said it was a real honour to support the cause.
‘‘We are very much behind this.’’
Palmerston North MP Iain Lees-galloway brought out his pair of heels from last year’s race.
He praised organisations like Woman’s Refuge, which worked hard with minimal resources.
‘‘Too many people are lining up for their services.
‘‘We all need to make sure we are there alongside them.’’
‘‘We have to support this message, that is our job.’’
Manawatu Abuse Intervention Network co-ordinator Gail Wood said though it was a fun event, it came with an important message and an important one for men to get behind.
Men needed to promote change from other men, she said. WORLD: While Donald Trump will be moving into the White House in January, the suspicion is that he will frequently escape the establishment confines.
"We have to support this message, that is our job." Iain Lees-galloway