English sailors

It could be noted that the Queen of England is still our head of state and, if anyone should be given some leniency regarding entry, it might be UK citizens in a time of need. At the risk of repeating what has been said by others, let me point out that all these sailors are in this position through no fault of their own; do not pose a Covid risk; will be in isolation while sailing here; will happily stay in quarantine on arrival; and will bring much- needed business to New Zealand.

More importantly, in the face of the upcoming cyclone season, there is the humanitarian aspect of needing to cater to maritime safety. Many have young children aboard and their boat is their only home, but because they are not NZ citizens, this runs counter to the current border restrictions.

Exceptions have been made already for sports teams, including America’s Cup sailors, and superyachts on the basis of money, so I say to our Government — make another, far more important, exception. Show some flexibility, compassion and basic common sense.

Peter Cooke, Whangapara ¯ oa.