Police Assn Denies Plot Over Walding Affair (Press, 25 October 1977)

A detective, Detective Senior-Sergeant Ian Hastings, has been fined for his involvement in an incident at the Crypt nightclub, which included a photograph of former Labour Cabinet Minister Joe Walding with a transvestite. This case has raised questions about whether there was any political conspiracy or intent to embarrass Mr Walding. Dr I.R.A. Moodie, the national secretary for the Police Association, stated on 23 October 1977 that Hastings was not involved in any scheme against Walding and described the incident as a series of coincidences. He referred to parts of a police tribunal's report that had not yet been made public, which he requested to be released. Hastings was charged with conduct that could bring discredit to the police after the nightclub encounter, which took place in June. He was found guilty and fined NZ$40 by Senior Magistrate J.A. Wicks. However, Hastings has appealed against this conviction and fine, raising concerns that news coverage had connected the Magistrate's ruling with an alleged attempt to “set up” Walding. Magistrate Wicks clarified in his remarks that the case lacked severe penalties and did not involve political implications. Dr Moodie highlighted that there was no evidence linking Hastings with any conspiracy. The report indicated that employed photographer and Hastings had not known each other prior to the tribunal hearing. He asserted that Hastings was merely attempting to deter the transvestite from pursuing Walding, who was a public figure, during legitimate police inquiries, which was misinterpreted in the media narrative. The transvestite reportedly claimed familiarity with Walding in an effort to distract police attention. In a different story, the Peacesat communication system played an important role during the cholera outbreak in Tarawa, Gilbert Islands. Established in 1971, Peacesat enables groups in widely separated locations within the Pacific to conduct direct communications. In a case of successful cooperation, medical experts and Air Force representatives in Wellington connected with personnel in Tarawa, Rarotonga, and even Atlanta, Georgia, via the satellite link during the emergency. Additionally, there was commentary on Australian comedian Barry Humphries’ show, which the New York Times critiqued unfavourably, pointing out that his performance relied on weak jokes and stereotypes, leading to confusion over its popularity in London. In local events, the Canterbury Children’s Theatre sought auditions for a production of “Mary Poppins”, encouraging performances in the style of Dick Van Dyke’s character Bert. Actresses for the title role would be auditioned soon, with a focus on acting skill, singing ability, and charm rather than prior flying experience. Lastly, Sir John Marshall, addressing a reunion for the Third Division Association in Timaru, reflected on his military service and transition to political engagement, drawing applause from the audience for his remarks about the changes in ‘war’.

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