TXT the editor

Joel Maxwell, you really don’t get it. The word ‘‘Ma¯ori’’ is not racist or offensive. But I have always understood the term ‘‘Pa¯keha¯’’ was derogatory. Hence my resentment at being referred to as one.

Supermarkets must be smiling. Where are the paper bags? Customers expected to buy a bag. More profits.

With all these new bridges that are going to help with the new gorge road, why don’t they bridge the gorge? Save time and money.

Mike Newman was a gentle person with a peaceful presence, at his usual spots around the city, where he would juggle for hours at a time. What a lot of people didn’t know was that Mike was also a very talented writer. Mike gave much to others but didn’t ask for anything in return. I’m glad I took the time to get to know you, Mike. Rest in peace, pal. Cameron

Re ‘‘Pa¯keha¯’’. According to Sir Mason Durie, Pa¯keha¯ are descended from subjects of Queen Victoria. So I am tau iwi, not Pa¯keha¯. Incidentally, I dislike being called a gentile, as Jews seldom use it as a compliment. Not racist, just proud of my own heritage.

What an interesting article informing about the life of the juggling man. Thanks Paul Mitchell.