Letters: It only counts if you vote

Rotorua candidates speak to Grey Power voters at the Bainbridge Centre. PHOTO/SUPPLIED

Thank you to all those members of Grey Power and other members of our community who braved the inclement weather, and attended the general election forum for candidates in the Rotorua and Waiariki electorates, held on Monday last.

It was disappointing the two candidates standing in the Waiariki electorate were unable to attend.

The candidates attending came well prepared to address the prepared questions and did so in true campaign style whilst also showing respect to their competitors and the audience alike.

Those attending in the audience were able to get an insight of the different parties' policies on superannuation, elective surgery and housing, particularly as they will affect those in retirement and those approaching that age.

We were also able to measure these policies against those of Grey Power.

- Retain the age of entitlement for receiving superannuation at 65. Raise the percentage of the average ordinary weekly wage, to 72.5 per cent.

- Protect and promote the health of New Zealanders through the public health system and for improved access to elective surgery.

-To maintain and improve housing options for older persons.

As these issues affect all in our community, maybe considering the different policies will give some direction as to which candidate, and which party, we will tick.

Remember, it only counts if you vote.

RUSSELL HALLAM
President, Grey Power Rotorua

Pedestrian crossing colour

Eighteen months ago our CBD was given red and white pedestrian crossings, replacing familiar black and white "zebra crossings". Officials reportedly used advice from the Road Controlling Authorities (reps from local authorities, TransFund New Zealand, Local Government New Zealand, and the Land Transport Safety Authority).

In my view the decision should have been made by elected representatives using research into colour blindness and dementia, along with advice from officials. With the red and white paint starting to peel, and council surely ready to cut painting costs in half, it is timely to review this policy.

Colour blindness affects about one in 12 men (8 per cent) and one in 200 women (0.5 per cent). People with red/green colour blindness have a reduced ability to "see" the contrast between white stripes on a red background, compared to seeing white stripes on black tarmac, and may not be aware of their impairment or realise that their condition worsens as they age.

About 3 per cent of people between 65-74 suffer from dementia, 19 per cent between 75 and 84 and nearly half of those over 85. Among the early signs of Alzheimer's are vision and decision making problems, critical to the safety of pedestrians and drivers.

Given the nature and prevalence of colour blindness and dementia, and Rotorua's status as a dementia-friendly city, can the council please review the use of red and white pedestrian crossings, and consider returning to familiar zebra crossings. Thank you.

REYNOLD MACPHERSON
Rotorua