Letters to the editor

The axing of Peter Russell is a terrible decision. I noted that the report in Hawke's Bay Today (October 19) said that some of the Hawke's Bay Rugby Union committee felt five years was probably a good time to make a change.

Well then maybe they should look to their own positions and apply the same rule, as we all know how long some of them have been on the committee.

Peter has done a fantastic job, led the team through to the premier division, had All Blacks selected from Hawke's Bay, and this is the thanks he gets?

All I can say is good luck, Peter - whoever gets to have you as the coach will be lucky, and will also become a winning team. Shame on you, HBRU.

Adrienne Mist, Taradale

Study sit-out

I refer to Mr McLaughlan's letter and Mr Dalton's reply, published in HB Today, regarding an independent report on Hawke's Bay in the areas of health, economy, governance, social issues etc.

It is disappointing that a councillor is continually unsupportive of such a study.

He states that his council has agreed to support what the Hastings District Council and Hawke's Bay Regional Council have already voted to do, when he of all people knows that is not the case.

In August, by a motion of council, the Nelson City Council voted unanimously to do just the opposite, ie, to not participate in any independent study as it maintained everything was tickity boo - despite reports to the contrary.

Is it not time for Barbara Arnott to once and for all state unequivocally whether her council will co-operate in full (and with funding) on the basis of the HBRC resolution of last month?

It would help the ratepayers if one spokesperson stated the council's views.

Damon Harvey, Hastings

Flag change

Patricia Roberts wants a new flag - if she gets her way it's probable she will also get a republic at the same time.

Then when it comes, it may come from China.

G. B. Thomas, Hastings

Perfect hosts

My husband and I are weekend locals in Waimarama, and regularly wander down to Jarks Cafe where Marianne and Peter Poszeluk are the owners and "mine hosts".

You couldn't get a nicer couple; whether it be for a cup of coffee or a bit to eat, they go out of their way to make your eating experience most enjoyable, and have you wanting to return time and time again. Always good food and great coffee.

Sue and John Hill, Hastings

Norsewood

Re: The Suburb Watch article about Norsewood (October 15) by Grant Harding.

A great article, but some important things are missing.

In Norsewood there is a great shop, NZ Natural Clothing (previously Norsewear), an art gallery and the country shop Scandi Superette. We are the best shop in the district for groceries, fruit and vegetables and also a great selection of Dutch/European products.

If people want to buy a house in Norsewood this is important to mention, besides the history of Norsewood and the hotel, cafe, school and community facilities.

To learn more about Norsewood visit www.norsewood.co.nz or http://norsewoodblog.blogspot.com, or visit the Norsewood page on Facebook. (Abridged.)

Ella Domper, Norsewood