DUNEDIN, New Zealand (CMC):

A SLOGAN being used to promote the first Test between New Zealand and West Indies has raised eyebrows.

"It's all white here" is the catch-cry Otago Cricket Association and Dunedin city officials will be using when West Indies arrives in Dunedin for the Test from December 11 to 15 at University Oval.

Officials are encouraging city residents and cricket followers attending the game to use the catch-cry, and dress in white for the occasion.

Mirror 'blackouts'

The Dunedin City Council and the Otago Cricket Association have introduced the concept to mirror 'black-outs' created during rugby games in the city involving the New Zealand national team, also known as the All Blacks.

"Well, you've got a Chinese mayor, so what's wrong with that?" Dunedin Mayor Peter Chin said.

"It's only an issue if you make it an issue. Cricketers play Tests in white, so if you follow that logic, why take the colours of the players into account?"

Racial implications

But some observers believe the slogan may have racial implications and feel it should be changed.

"It seems a wee bit like someone hasn't thought of possible consequences," said Edward Ellison, another city official.

But Dunedin City Council spokeswoman Debra Simes said: "It has nothing to do with race or colour ... we embrace all colours and cultures here."