Fundraiser in Auckland for embattled Norfolk Islanders

Fundraiser in Auckland for embattled Norfolk Islanders

A fundraiser has been held in north Auckland to support embattled Norfolk Islanders, who say they're the victims of a strategic land-grab by Australia.

Last month Norfolk Island petitioned the United Nations to stop the Australian government, which dissolved the island's Legislative Assembly last year and is preparing for a complete takeover on July 1.

Norfolk Island is New Zealand's nearest neighbour, 1000 kilometres from Auckland. The island has 1600 residents. One in five of is from New Zealand while another 20 to 30 percent can trace their lineage here.

Its settlers were the crew led by Fletcher Christian, who famously mutinied against Captain William Bligh on English ship 'The Bounty' in 1789.

The small Island between Australia and New Zealand is fighting for its culture, independence and its future, and now Kiwis are joining the battle.

"New Zealand needs to stand up to them because Australia's going to be making decisions on oil and mineral exploration and it's so close to us," says Dean McLachlan from the Norfolk Island People for Democracy.

A year ago the Australian government dissolved the island's parliament and in a month could take full control.

"To expect a town of around 1800 people to finance three levels of government without further assistance was an experiment that failed," says administrator of the Australian External Territory of Norfolk Island Gary Hardgrave.

Norfolk Islanders asked for a recovery package in difficult financial times, but the former chief minister says Australia took the opportunity to re-instate its power.

"Australian government has said, 'We're going to collapse your government and take control of all the infrastructure, all the stuff we've paid for.' Anywhere else that would be called theft," says Andre Nobbs, previous chief minister of Norfolk Island.

Today's event aims to raise awareness and funds for a possible legal battle, but the cause is already hitting home with some Kiwis, particularly those who have lived on the island.

"We resided on Norfolk for a long time. We have a family connection and we're very concerned with the way that the people of Norfolk are being treated," says Wok Stehr.

"I've still got family members on the island and it's saddening and upsetting to know that these wonderful beings are feeling so insecure," says Tracy Houia.

A petition has been lodged with the United Nations for the island to become a non-self-governing territory.

The next month is crucial as the people of Norfolk Island fight to protect their way of life and their independence.

Newshub.