Short & sweet

On re-entry Great to hear the news on Pike River but why don’t they go in now and give the families the Christmas present they have been waiting for for eight years? Gary Stewart, Foxton Beach.

What if evidence is found during the reentry that pinpoints the miners’ complacency as the cause of the explosion? Will Bernie Monk make a public apology and reimburse the millions spent on his crusade? Maxine Samson, Whakatane.

On forestry Only politicians would order a swag of trees and have little idea where they might be planted. They’re lucky they have a bottomless pit of our money to big-note on such frivolous flights of fancy. John Clements, Orewa.

On speed It is very unnerving how fast people approach from behind at the lights or stop signs. What if their brakes fail? Have a greater respect for life, yours and mine.

Margaret Dyer, Taupo¯ .

On teachers

The teachers who want a pay rise have shown no consideration for parents and their employers, whose week has been totally disrupted. If they want our support they should publish their hourly rate so we can compare. M. Dunn, Stanmore Bay.

On spinsters

I laughed aloud at Ross Harvey’s exhortation for us all to spare a thought for the women made unmarried spinsters by World War I, who he says “carried that disappointment to their grave”. Rosie France, Devonport.