Radio, Talkback
I think I may have to give up listening to talk back radio, because I am so concerned at the influence that most presenters have in expressing their personal opinions. With some listeners there seems to be an acceptance that because a certain presenter, such as John McDonald on Morning talkback, gives out a PERSONAL opinion of a particular issue that the opinion expressed is Gospel. The presenters then proceed to barely acknowledge the views of callers who oppose that opinion and give time to those callers who do agree and approve of the presenter's opinion.
It was rumoured that at the start of the Covid epidemic, that the Government paid an enormous sum to media outlets to actively promote anti Covid vaccinations and very circumspectly promote official dogma. I am not influenced by these talk back presenters, but some might be. Most presenters are extremely biased over many important issues and pass on this bias to listeners. The format of afternoon talk back with Simon and James is better because they discuss an issue and their opinions often differ, so undecided listeners can perhaps hear both sides of an issue, and also the afternoon programme is more relaxed and the presenters more personable.
Some presenters are notorious for cutting off callers who disagree with them thus only the braver callers ring in to offer a differing opinion to that of the show host. ALSO please please bring back Tony Amos for Saturday's 'In My Day" programme which I listen to whilst toiling in Gym and later on in bed before nodding off. Miles Davis would be excellent as well. And no I don't spend hours listening solely to radio talk back, but it is background whilst doing other things. Often gets switched in annoyance. Radio is good if only used to inform of a situation or particular issue, and invite callers to ring with talkback, but it is just too easy for some listeners to be swayed by personal opinions of the presenters. I do however really enjoy the catchy advert for The Tyre General, must be the same agency which does the Brakes advert.
Take care folks and keep warm.......
Poll: Canterbury is thriving on paper... but are you seeing evidence of Canterbury's improving economy?
As reported in the Press, Reserve Bank Governor Anna Breman recently gave a shout-out to our region, calling Canterbury a "stand-out" for how we recover from tough times. With tech firms growing and exporters investing, the business side of things is looking bright!
👉 But we know that "business growth" doesn't always mean the weekly shop gets any cheaper. While the city expands, many families feel like they’re just trying to keep their heads above water.
We want to know: With the business buzz of 2026, do you feel like things are finally looking up for your household, or does it still feel like a climb?
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0% Yes
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0% No
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100% In some areas ...
🧩😏 Riddle me this, Neighbours…
I am an odd number. Take away a letter and I become even. What number am I?
Do you think you know the answer?
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Have you got New Zealand's best shed? Show us and win!
Once again, Resene and NZ Gardener are on the hunt for New Zealand’s best shed! Send in the photos and the stories behind your man caves, she sheds, clever upcycled spaces, potty potting sheds and colourful chicken coops. The Resene Shed of the Year 2026 winner receives $1000 Resene ColorShop voucher, a $908 large Vegepod Starter Pack and a one-year subscription to NZ Gardener. To enter, tell us in writing (no more than 500 words) why your garden shed is New Zealand’s best, and send up to five high-quality photos by email to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz. Entries close February 23, 2026.
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