Mark Dawson, Editor of Wanganui Chronicle
AN IMMIGRANT writes:
"When I came to New Zealand for a quiet life, I never expected to be the subject of so much attention.
"My initial concern was working out whether I was an immigrant or an emigrant ... apparently, I'm both.
"But then came the almost daily mentions on the television news, and now I find myself approaching celebrity status.
"And it seems I could be a key player in the upcoming September election. Who would have thought ...
"Apparently Winston Peters sees me as a crucial component in his bid to get New Zealand First centre stage, and I'm on Andrew Little's radar, too.
"I probably should feel flattered, but a few derogatory comments are taking the lustre off my time in the spotlight.
"I was starting to get worried when it appeared I might be the cause of a number of the nation's problems.
"Could I be responsible for the housing crisis in Auckland? Even for the homeless crisis in Auckland? Was I taking someone else's job? And what about the Supercity's gridlocked traffic?
"When Auckland's wastewater system went all 'Whanganui', I really felt in the gun.
"But then this week came the cheery news from the New Zealand Initiative, a think-tank of sorts, I believe.
"It seems I may be one of the good guys, after all. Overall, we immigrants/emigrants are helping New Zealand - according to think-tankers, we represent a net gain.
"Now even Mike Hosking likes us.
"That seems to make sense. I work hard, pay my taxes, do my share of consumer spending and obey the laws of the land.
"Here's hoping for the quiet life ..."
Sincerely
A N IMMIGRANT
Whanganui
Even just one kiwi death can have a devastating impact on kiwi recovery, Helen Leahy said.