Air NZ sorry over manual's Tongan drinking claims

Air New Zealand has apologised for an old crew manual which suggested staff should keep an eye on Tongan passengers who could take advantage of free in-flight alcohol.

The 2008 document, which profiled a number of nationalities, was made public yesterday in the Sunday Star-Times.

Air NZ said it had since been updated and no longer mentioned alcohol or made cultural assumptions.

The document described Tongans as "softly spoken, reserved people" but warned many could "drink the bar dry".

Tongan Advisory Council chairman Melino Maka said it was extremely hurtful the airline had painted Tongans as "uncontrollable alcoholics".

Air NZ spokesman Alan Gaskin apologised last night saying the manual was not meant to cause offence.

"This section of the document was designed as a reference guide to ensure international cabin crew were familiar with the expectations of the diverse range of nationalities Air New Zealand carries on its international services."

The newspaper said other nationalities profiled included Hong Kong Chinese (described as demanding), mainland Chinese (not fussy), Samoans (who came from a tropical climate and appreciated being given rugs) and Koreans (who expect good manners).

- NZPA