A quick word

The dairy industry has given a Christmas present to the nation in the form of thousands of litres of dairy waste dumped in the Tutaekuri River, ruining a popular swimming spot.

G. Henderson, Northcote

Unfortunately we must still use plastic to protect our silage but for a number of years a recycling service has been available. Some of this may well end up back on the farm in the form of fence posts. Our organic farm is not permitted to use treated timber of any form so these are a welcome alternative.

Alan Penney, Silverdale

Once again the legalising of marijuana legislation is confusing. The use of marijuana for medical purposes and especially alleviating suffering is reasonable and logical. Having every man and his dog smoking weed for recreational purposes is not and the voting form should say so.

Gary Hollis, Mellons Bay

If those behind the recent format change on One News’ weather have a review in mind, then the curious positioning of Tauranga, (bypassed in the Bay of Plenty segment, then slotted in after Hawke’s Bay/ Poverty Bay, almost as an afterthought), would be a good starting point.

David Lee, Papamoa

Susan Grimsdell’s letter (December 27) on the Erie Canal versus the City Rail Link is a good example of being selective in what facts to use. She omits to note more than 1000 people died building the canal and she is silent on how the land was acquired. In today’s society, which has an appetite for human risk that asymptotes to zero, the two judges would probably be serving time in Her Majesty’s for workplace safety crimes and dubious land dealings. If she wants to live in a safer, fairer society then that comes with costs and delays. Steve Reindler, St Heliers

Processed sugar is recognised as an addictive substance. How can it possibly be appropriate for an American multimillionaire basketball player to profit from marketing to the masses, up to three times an hour during primetime television viewing, a sugar-saturated fizzy drink? The message, especially to children, is neither subtle nor subliminal: an iconic sport star says it is all right to include sugar-laced drinks as part of my diet.

Dennis E. Morse, Kaeo

What a kerfuffle over a reptilian T-shirt. Talk about Monty Python! In the meantime, I remain your obedient serpent.

Dean Donoghue, Papamoa Beach

Thanks, Ted Walker for the compliment, [on observant letter writers from Kerikeri]. I think there is something in the air (due to horticulture) rather than in the water (due to agriculture).

Mike Fleet, Kerikeri

Can someone please explain why New Year has of late become New Year's? It grates.

Russell Chambers, Meadowbank

You've almost made it through to 2020 so don't blow it now. Drive safely!

Peter Culpan, Te Atatu Peninsula