Senior National MP Nicola Willis has clapped back at Brian Tamaki over a social media post about her following a drag king on Instagram.
In a post to X this morning, the Destiny Church leader called out Willis for following drag king Willy SmacknTush, who does family-friendly story-time events.
Tamaki wrote: “Can you believe NZ’s Minister of Finance, Nicola Willis, is a follower of Willy SmacknTush?”
“I believe in people’s freedom of choice, but is it appropriate that the Minister of Finance is following this Drag King? This is an Adult Entertainer who attempts to entertain our kids.”
He also called out the Government for funding services to support New Zealand’s rainbow community.
Willis then hit back, saying there was “no need to be jealous Brian”.
“I’ll follow you on Instagram too if you’ll give lipstick and boas a go.”
Last night, SmacknTush posted about the cancellation of a planned performance at the Upper Hutt City Library tomorrow over "hate speech, threats, violence, and aggression".
The drag king said it was "hugely disappointing" to have to cancel the event because of a "small (but loud) group of people who are deeply obsessed with rainbow rights".
"And all because a person dressed in sparkles with a silly name wanted to read some books for the families who wanted to listen".
The performer said organisers stood by the library's decisions to prioritise the safety of their staff and the public.
"Spaces like libraries are there for us all. If you don't want to go to a storytime event presented by a drag performer during international pride month, don't go to one."
SmacknTush then issued a message directly aimed at those trying to intimidate.
"I feel pity for the small, dark, and hateful world you live in. You can never win; our queer and trans whanau aren't going anywhere.
"We will continue to wear sparkles, be authentically ourselves, and be proud. We won't take your bullying.
"We will continue to show up at our libraries, community centres, parks and pools, and we will continue to read books to our tamariki (sometimes even in sparkles)."
In a statement Mike Ryan, director of community services at Upper Hutt City Council, said they were "unable to ensure a safe and welcoming environment" to those who wanted to attend.
"This decision is not something we take lightly and we understand that this may be disappointing to some. The safety of our tamariki, community and staff is our priority. Our library’s users have the right to attend events in a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment.
"Upper Hutt prides itself on inclusivity and diversity and the Council is committed to fostering an environment where all individuals feel safe and welcome."
Last month, Tamaki said he had told his followers to vandalise a rainbow crossing in Gisborne earlier in the year.
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