OPINION: We can disagree profoundly with someone like David Gaughan without trying to put him out of business
From columnist Verity Johnson: Middle NZ was asked whether it cared enough about cancel culture to stop supporting a local boozer and beer brand whose owner wrote a racist Facebook post calling Māori the "scurge of society". Apparently, it doesn’t.
That’s not to say it necessarily agreed with the appalling comments – many of them openly said that they didn’t. Rather they just didn’t think cancelling the brewery was justified. Especially after Eagle Brewing owner Dave Gaughan’s apology.
The disgusting, heartbreaking part of all this is that cancel culture used to be called boycotting. Boycotting was one of few effective weapons of the genuinely disenfranchised. It was the furious, white-hot fire that forged real revolutions from Rosa Parks to Gandhi.
Until we stole it. We took it off the streets, into the wine bars, and disembowelled it. Ripped out its heart and teeth. Death by gentrification. Gaughan’s not the only one who should apologise.
Poll: As a customer, what do you think about automation?
The Press investigates the growing reliance on your unpaid labour.
Automation (or the “unpaid shift”) is often described as efficient ... but it tends to benefit employers more than consumers.
We want to know: What do you think about automation?
Are you for, or against?
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9.4% For. Self-service is less frustrating and convenient.
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43.6% I want to be able to choose.
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47.1% Against. I want to deal with people.
Poll: Would you take a 1.5-hour hike for a shop? 🌿🐦
Canterbury, you have a hidden treasure right on your doorstep ... though it does come with a 1.5-hour walk up the stunning Rakaia Gorge Walkway.
Along the trail you’ll find The Fantail Shop showcasing small artworks by local artisans. Even better, every purchase supports the Fantail Trust, helping protect and restore biodiversity on the north bank of the gorge.
So we’re curious: would you take a 1.5-hour hike for a shop? (And for local biodiversity, of course 🌿)
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32.4% Yes!
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67.6% No thank you.
Musicians Wanted
‘Rangiora Bells’ is seeking musicians to join the handbell choir. We are a friendly group of handbell ringers who enjoy making music and entertaining at community groups.
If you would like to come and have a go at ringing handbells, please come along to one of our practice sessions. No commitment necessary if you decide that this is not for you.
An ability to read basic music notation preferred.
Practice days – Thursdays 1pm – 2.30pm
(beginning 19th February 2026)
In the lounge at Trinity Methodist Church
176 King Street
Rangiora
Clare Dolheguy
Phone 027 583 7504
claredoll6@gmail.com
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