Where are CBD’S Christmas decorations?
What a disappointment walking around Rotorua CBD on Wednesday. The only evidence of Christmas I could see was the large Christmas tree, at what was the City Focus.
I saw no Christmas decorations across the streets or window displays.
I know it’s been hard for several years largely due to Covid, impacting the lack of international tourists being able to spend time in our city. As well, we all know, there are a multitude of other factors.
Rotorua CBD looked devoid of any Christmas cheer.
Many shops looked drab and unwelcoming. Not somewhere locals or tourists that are visiting would want to spend time browsing, buying gifts for themselves and family to take home.
Come on those Rotorua businesses, it doesn’t take too much to create some positivity and vibrancy in your CBD. Make your shop and surroundings attractive so people want to step inside.
I intended to do my Christmas shopping here. Instead, I’ll head elsewhere — perhaps to Taupo¯ or Whakata¯ ne.
Jessica Pickering
Owhata
Traffic calming measures
Again, I ask Rotorua Lakes Council to consider traffic calming measures on Koutu Rd — especially the stretch from Kawaha to Taharangi.
We’ve already had an accident this past year taking out a power pole and there are speeding vehicles every day.
Vehicles turning out of and on to Koutu can speed up and lose control, putting the bus stop commuters at risk.
Please council, do something. John Henry
Rotorua
Premium debate
Kiri Gillespie’s editorial, Changes to police pursuit policy overdue (Opinion, December 1).
Well ... surprise, surprise. A nochase policy has led to more fleeing drivers and fewer offender apprehensions ... who would have thought? It beggars belief that [Police Commissioner Andrew] Coster invoked the trial policy in the first place (a policy supported by this soft, woke government if my recollection is correct).
The obvious policy and law change should be a severe mandatory additional penalty to any offender who flees the police.
— Mark G
The 5.6 magnitude earthquake that struck the central North Island (News, December 1).
Maybe a warning sign. Lake Taupo¯ is a supervolcano. There were articles reported in the media on September 24 that Lake Taupo¯ volcanic activity level had been raised.
Be interesting to get an update on this from GNS and what this latest