Letters: Walking a dog in Rotorua is frightening

Dog walking in Rotorua is no longer a pleasure. Photo/File

Walking a dog these days can be a frightening and hazardous business. It is a sad state of affairs when one sets out on what should be a pleasant excursion but have to be constantly aware that a dog hurtling towards you could possibly and most likely be a vicious attacking animal.

Dog walking in Rotorua is no longer a pleasure. Which park is the safest? Where am I and my precious pet unlikely to be attacked by an uncontrolled snarling dog? Sadly - there is nowhere.

Of course irresponsible owners are to blame, but these people have the ability to sneak away from the scene and are not apprehended.

Believe me when I state that this is a most serious problem ruining the pleasure of genuine dog lovers.

A. N. CHRISTIE
Rotorua

Biking etiquette
I prefer writing complimentary letters which uphold the well-intentioned efforts of the people of our community. However, today I feel the need to address two issues that seem important to so many people, including myself and my husband.

The first is a word to bike riders. I have no qualm with all of us sharing the roadways, and I am well aware that most riders, whether casual or more professional, adhere to the concepts of safety for everyone.

However there appear to be an increasing number of riders who should please sharpen their observance of the following: travelling in the proper direction - with, not against, traffic/within, not on the traffic edge of, your specified lane and not up the middle of the road; observing the traffic signals and signs, just as drivers must; not "jay-riding" diagonally across roadways at will; being aware of conditions around you rather than assuming you are to be "looked after".

The second issue is a simple question asked before by many other individuals, and which seems like such an obvious candidate for inclusion in the initial planning stages. Can we get some sun/rain protection over Te Manawa and the library?

MARY WRIGHT
Rotorua