I was disappointed to hear the results of the referendum clearly showing people don't want a museum. Sure, economically it will save us money as ratepayers, but long-term the cost to the community will be in other ways. Acknowledgement of our rich history and culture we have here in the Bay of Plenty is particularly significant for our young people. Like Mr Rabbits I also enjoy feijoas and sandy feet, and I appreciate water pipes and roads. However, I desperately want our city to grow up and take responsibility of these beautiful treasures we have in the museum collection at the Mount. They deserve a place to be seen and enjoyed by all.

There are extraordinary stories linked with these taonga. We have a job to do, to care for them and tell their stories. To take positive steps towards the future we must look back at our history. There is a glimmer of hope for Tauranga. When the new University of Waikato city campus opens next year on Durham Street, this will be a very special opportunity to extend our understanding in history, science, the arts, languages, and technology. All the subjects that the museum could bring too.

S Taylor, Mount Maunganui.