Letters: Let's not put off cyclists

Support cycling initiatives, says a reader. Photo / File

With the ever-increasing number, size, speed and use of motor vehicles on our roads it is little surprise that both the road toll and the number of cycling injuries has increased.

However, last I checked, cycling in New Zealand was still safer than DIY and much safer than rugby.

Yes, there are risks, but European research suggests a minimum benefit-to-risk ratio for cycling of 13:1 – usually more like 25:1.

While we applaud and support all the cycling safety initiatives planned for Rotorua, it should be noted that propagating the idea that cycling is dangerous actually becomes self-fulfilling.

The single most effective safety mechanism for cyclists is more cyclists.

The idea that it is hazardous reduces participation - rendering those remaining lonely, invisible and surrounded by lethal hunks of steel.

Miriam Odlin
Mourea

Property values

Thank you, Mike Byrne (Letters, May 7) for your letter to the Rotorua Daily Post regarding the headline parading property value as news.

I too felt that such a prominent headline was in bad taste, considering that so many folks are attempting to purchase their own home against almost impossible odds.

It is deplorable that properties are now regarded as investments. A house should be a haven, a home, not an item as a step on the property ladder.

A N Christie
Rotorua

The Rotorua Daily Post welcomes letters from readers. Please note the following:

• Letters should not exceed 250 words.

• They should be opinion based on facts or current events.

• If possible, please email.

• No noms-de-plume.

• Letters will be published with names and suburb/city.

• Please include full name, address and contact details for our records only.

• Local letter writers given preference.

• Rejected letters are not normally acknowledged.

• Letters may be edited, abridged, or rejected at the Editor's discretion.

• The Editor's decision on publication is final.

Email editor@dailypost.co.nz