Lavalava offends

Press, 11 October 1988, Page 1

Lavalava offends

PA Wellington A Wellington taxi-driver, Joe Hollywood, could be put off the road because he wears his traditional Samoan wrap-around lavalava at work.

Mr Hollywood’s lavalava breaches the dress code of the Wellington Taxi Society, Ltd, which specifies “dress trousers” be worn by drivers. He has had a letter from the society’s general manager, Mr Peter Thompson, telling him he must abide by the society’s rules, which were a condition of his employment, or have his driving permit withdrawn.

Mr Hollywood said yesterday he believed a meeting of the society’s board would discuss his wearing a lavalava.

He said he had been told by Mr Thompson there had been complaints from other drivers and from the public about his lavalava.

“I asked to see copies of these complaints, but I haven’t seen anything. I would be prepared to stop wearing it, but my customers speak highly of it and seem to appreciate it. “My lavalava is neat and clean and colourful. I’m happy to respect the company’s rules, but I also want to protect my culture.” The lavalava was an ideal garment in hot weather, he said. He was willing to compromise by wearing it only during the daylight-time period.