Rants & Raves: Postal generosity

Should you take your hat off when national anthems are playing? Photo / Mark Mitchell

Tell us what you love about life in New Zealand - and what needs to change. Email rantandrave@nzherald.co.nz

Rave
Just before Christmas I sent out a bundle of Christmas cards/letters to be posted overseas and accidentally used $2.40 stamps. None of them have been returned to me for insufficient postage. Thank you, NZ Post.

Brenda

Rant
A council worker was observed on Friday using a leaf-blower along Totara Ave, New Lynn, blowing leaves away from under trees and on to the roadway. Maybe someone needs to tell him that leaves left under trees are not unsightly and have a chance to rot, giving nutrients to the trees. Whereas leaves left on the road are unsightly and will probably be blown back by the wind - not a productive use of his time and expenses of the council!

Andrew Kuva

Rave
I took my 3-year-old grandson to Western Springs Speedway. We were invited into the pit area and work spaces and into their transporters by an enthusiastic and passionate crew who capped off a lovely first-time experience. Thanks guys, keep it up.

David L.

Rant
Am I seriously old-fashioned or are you meant to take your hat off when national anthems are playing?

I made my kids stand still with their sun hats off at the cricket match at Eden Park. Most of the adults didn't, and some even carried on drinking their beer.

N. Matthews

Rave
The amazingly kind staff at Showa Cafe on the corner of Ashby Ave in Glendowie saw that I was feeling a bit under the weather. I didn't get much sleep the night before due to a sore throat and runny nose. The owner made me a lemon, ginger and honey drink from scratch, with real ingredients. And it's not even on their menu - he just did it because he and the rest of his staff are lovely, customer-focused people and that's why I'm definitely going back. The food was so delicious too! We'll be back for one of your incredible basil chicken sandwiches. Thank you so much, you made my day.

Klaassen K.A.

Rant
I've never been able to unwrap my plastic bags of sliced meat from the deli at the supermarket without the things tearing apart or ripping. Wouldn't it be easier for us if they packed the meat in a ziplock bag or similar?

Mike