Protest support

Covering Climate Now (Weekend Herald, September 21) by Simon Wilson, should be compulsory reading for all, especially aspiring politicians, and demonstrates great journalism.

Those who deny climate change arising from human activity and/or bad practice, are either uninformed or have an agenda such as weak politicians beset by lobbyists.

As a nation, we pride ourselves on “punching above our weight”, and being brave and resolute under adversity, and we are blessed with a Prime Minister who would be highly sought after in Australia, the United Kingdom or even the US.

The bickering of the National Party leaders, supported by some rightwing columnists and interest groups, have in no way diminished the international standing of Ms Ardern, resulting from the Christchurch Call and increasing social media support from the giant tech companies.

Ultimately, the national response to global warming is the challenge for us but the Vice-Chancellor of Auckland University, Stuart McCutcheon, has denied a request for support of a student protest in Auckland. Auckland is apparently the only university in New Zealand not to support the initiative.

As a graduate of Auckland University, I am ashamed of this — a matter vital to the future not only of humanity, but very likely all animal and plant life as we know it. Jon Maplesden, Manurewa. Erebus memorial

If the notion of a new Erebus Memorial has become so thorny (Weekend Herald, September 21), perhaps the original memorial at NZ’s largest cemetery, Waikumete, should stand.

I remember attending the large 25th memorial service there, which was truly memorable.

Many people were there, including those bereaved, as well as representatives from Air NZ and members of the public. We viewed the victims’ names on the huge plaque and left flowers at the base.

Following the formalities, people remained for a long time in the leafy pretty garden area, reflecting on their own memories of that dreadful day when the ghastly news broke. Colleen Wright, Botany Downs.