Tell us what you love about life in New Zealand — or what needs to change. Write to rantandrave@nzherald.co.nz
Rant Five-year passports - what a scam. The day the Government reverts to a 10-year passport will not arrive too soon. The Department of Internal Affairs claims that the cost of issuing passports is funded purely by the people who get one, but has not halved the previous cost of a10-year passport or noted that Kiwis now have to pay the cost twice as often. - Anthony N
Rave Aucklanders should feel lucky to have a wonderful public library system. We have been given free access to a staggering range of resources. Congratulations and thanks to all who make the libraries work. This is a sign of civilised society. - Pragati Vasisht
Rant I am often frustrated to see people leaving huge gaps when parking. If they could just park their cars a bit closer to the car ahead of them, it would give just enough space for another car to get in the parking line. Finding a car park is already hard enough at almost any time and anywhere, so I beg drivers to be more considerate when parking. - Chris Hu
Rave In the past five weeks I have had to call out the AA five times - two breakdowns, locked-in car keys, battery failure and yesterday a puncture. Each time the response was swift, pleasant and professional. I can't think where else in the world this would be possible. - Joan Allsop
Rant We shouldn't have to pay more rates until we realise the "value" of our home. Just because some people are willing to pay an over-the-top price for our houses does not mean we should pay more rates. Fixed incomes do not allow for rate rises. Auckland will become a city for the wealthy only. - Nova Gibson
Rave I have been driving in Ireland, where they have great roads, but the signs leave a lot to be desired. They are in Gaelic and English and have lots of exits on the same board, so it is difficult to read them. And the signs are just before the exit, with almost no warning when to turn off. The signs on our motorways in Auckland are brilliant - they are well back so we know which lane to get into, and directions are clear. - Jo O
