Capital shows true colours
As pedestrian crossings go, you’re not likely to miss this one in Wellington.
It’s bright, it’s bold, and it aims to proudly show Wellington’s commitment to diversity.
Finishing touches were made yesterday to the rainbow crossing at the intersection of Cuba Mall and Dixon St.
Wellington Mayor Justin Lester said it was a bright sign that the capital was inclusive of people regardless of their gender, sexual preference or age.
‘‘Everyone’s welcome in Wellington,’’ Lester said.
The crossing will officially open on Wednesday to coincide with what would have been the birthday of famed transgender activist Carmen Rupe.
But over the weekend it generated plenty of attention from people who were essentially watching paint dry.
‘‘I think it is awesome,’’ Wellingtonian Nathan Muckley said. ‘‘It is great for Cuba St and Wellington.’’
Rachel Gifford, also of Wellington, said the city was ‘‘a really diverse place and this celebrates all of that’’, while Wellington City Council chief executive Kevin Lavery described the crossing as ‘‘absolutely, quintessentially Wellington’’.
In March, Wellington will be the first city in Australasia to host the International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association (ILGA) conference.
The three host organisations – Intersex Trust Aotearoa New Zealand, Tiwhanawhana Trust, and Rainbow Youth – will welcome more than 600 delegates from around the world.
Costs directly associated with the new pedestrian crossing were added up earlier this year to $22,500. The council said most zebra crossings cost between $15,000 and $20,000.