I do agree with Simon Bridges in regard to the issues with SH2 north of Tauranga – do it once and do it right. Whether this is a four-lane highway to Waihi or something in between, I have no view. I'm happy to defer to the experts, but it must address both the current appalling accident rate and accommodate the inevitable growth.

However, Mr Bridges insults our intelligence by suggesting that this failure rests with the current government. He and his party were alerted to the impending issue over nine years ago yet they chose to do nothing about it – perhaps for good reason. To now use their failure for such cheap political gamesmanship is inept.

The challenges facing our country and the globe make the SH2 issue look like a walk in the park. His gall and cheap tribal politicking are not the characteristics of leadership needed to help us resolve these issues.

W Murray, Whakamarama.