Letters: Bigger priorities in Rotorua than Lakefront

An artist's impression of the Lakefront redevelopment. Image / Supplied

I have to agree with the petition going around - we do not need to spend money on the Lakefront - it is fine as it is. There are far more important issues to be faced in Rotorua.

We need our theatre fixed up and open again - a city the size and stature of Rotorua need a theatre - badly.

The museum is a disgrace - underinsured and neglected. Too much money had been wasted on what I think are frivolous things such as cycle paths, library and the lack of parking.

We ratepayers cannot afford any more debt, the overspending of this council has to stop.
Jim Adams
Rotorua

Peace statue

In reply to Jessica Newman's letter (October 4), she is right that the Rotorua Peace Memorial Gardens in Centennial Park are a delight and do reflect a peaceful spot in a sometimes tumultuous world.

However, I would like to remind her that before Christianity in Aotearoa New Zealand there was already a powerful belief system that not only saw the peace of nature but also the humility by humans of their footprints within that environment.

If there is to be a statue, one that acknowledges the founding belief system in this country, then maybe one of Papatuanuku or Tane-nui-a-Rangi or Rongo-ma-Tane. And I say this as a Christian.
Maria Wilson
Rotorua

Gang patches

I agree with Jennifer King and Suzanne Mexted-Dykes' letters (October 1) about the gang patches and planting more trees respectively.

It is unbelievable that street gangs wear their own forms of insignia on their clothing, and swagger members of the public into dread but no relevant authority seems to do anything about it.

It reminds me of a phrase "fiddle while Rome burns".

Visitors, especially overseas tourists, are probably bewildered by the barren landscapes on the main roads which are contrary to the image of clean green country.

The greenish farmlands are actually primary industries so it is not an elaborate and welcoming landscape.

Thermal Explorer Highway (SH5) and Ngongotaha Rd, especially Kauae Cemetery, have been abandoned.
Andy Myungsoo Lee
Rotorua