Media Council

So imagine how I felt reading Virginia Fallon’s dated caricature of less fortunate South Wairarapa towns (‘‘Fear and loathing in Featherston’’, Focus). A stereotype of disengaged, back-water people, with deranged beliefs and offputting manners.

Certainly the DIY shop owner has some strong and unusual opinions, and there are council candidates who have behaved questionably. But has Fallon spent much time around Wellington Station, or Parliament this year?

Indeed, the sign in the closeddown cafe window is misspelled, but did visual journalist Kevin Stent know the second-language English speakers who wrote it?

Featherston is, in fact, booming with artistry, social inclusion, and unique experiences not achievable in the city.

Booktown has quickly become a leading literary festival, which this year hosted the most significant living authors in the country, front bench politicians and Hollywood directors.

In short, Fallon and Stent came all this way and missed the story. How embarrassing.

Chris Mead, Featherston

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