What we want, need

A109 Light Utility Helicopter flight with mayor Gisborne City from the air in November 2023.

Re: In the hands of Labour's ideologues, May 23 column.

Mr Bibby, your views and those of Mr Elers do not represent me.

You commence your discussion with Steve Elers' commentary on Stuff (April 25, 2020), regarding the Prime Minister's character. Elers writes, “It's safe to assume most New Zealanders understood (elimination) as meaning we have the potential for the virus to be gone, out of here, see you later, because elimination generally implies ‘the complete removal or destruction of something'.”

Actually, we don't.

You've acknowledged that the Prime Minister's “extraordinary communication skills” have contributed to our successful navigation of the lockdown. Precisely — this approach, to keep the country abreast daily, has provided opportunity for us to understand pandemic terminology, including the difference between elimination and eradication. Wow — we're knowledgable, focused and appreciate being considered clever enough to get the gist.

Since Elers' comments, political polls have shown he was off the mark.

I believe you've also mistakenly assumed a majority share your views; “. . . (the Government) has used the opportunity to change the whole character of this nation from one that has served us well for at least the past 150 years . . .”

Us? That majority “us” you surmise has shrunk considerably; 150 years is a long time to pay scant regard for the wellbeing of a nation that is growing in diversity and needs. For Maori the time frame for discussion is at least 250 years.

Your commentary is supported by Eler's assertions that the Prime Minister's philosophy has been established from “her time as leader of The International Union of Socialist Youth” and that Labour presents a philosophy “that is ideologically driven in sympathy with its current coalition partners”.

I for one prefer a philosophy that reflects empathy, manaaki and actual regard for marginalised communities such as mine.

Recent polls show an “unprecedented” majority of New Zealanders prefer Jacinda Ardern as our Prime Minister.

The Opposition last week even indicated an acknowledgement of how we (the real majority) feel. Simon Bridges' scathing remarks reflected a real miscalculation of what we (yep, us) want and need, and he's gone.

It's time for change.

Cherie Te Rore