I'd like to add my voice to comments made by M Brooks on the imposition of the hongi at welcoming ceremonies, without permission of the visitor. (Sunlive, May 28)...or on any occasion.

There is no disrespect in choosing to avoid the hongi, for a less intimate contact, especially when strangers are involved. But it is surely important to remember we cannot take it for granted that a stranger automatically welcomes such intimacy.

Perhaps, visiting dignitaries put in this position?

Another point - in these days when much attention is given to colds, ‘nasties', flu, sneezing and infection, how many even carry hankies or tissues? How many noses remain hygienically free of contamination? Or hands, for that matter.

I know someone whose daily hospital work involves dealing with bacteria and infections of all kinds - work requiring such unrelenting care, and scrupulous attention. Is it surprising he was left with barely suppressed annoyance, not even having been prepared for the marae visit let alone given an option? Well, he was whisked away to a marae for such a welcome.

Unfortunately, from just such an ongoing working environment, with no warning...so there are many sides to these situations.

Did you ever wonder what happens to those ‘samples' you have to provide before the doctor prescribes those cough mixtures and pills? Well, someone has to work with sometimes unpleasant samples so your cough etc can be identified and the appropriate remedy be prescribed.

D Holm, Otumoetai.