Kiwi speed talking irritates

Many overseas people I've met over the years comment on how fast some Kiwis talk. And how many radio listeners are out there who are frustrated by the speed talking that irritates the ears and scrambles the brain?

Apart from the odd advert, the worst has to be the Tauranga Newstalk ZB traffic reporter following the 4pm news on weekdays. I have actually complained by phone and must admit this particular reporter now says Bethlehem instead of "Betlim." But he persists with others like "Gretin" for Greerton, "Cammin" for Cameron and many misunderstood others.

His icing on the cake must surely be "Stataway" which is his interpretation of State Highway. My request to Tauranga Newstalk ZB is to either replace this over-exuberant speed talker or force him to slow down. It's a bit ironic when reporting on traffic – there are so many warnings out there to slow down. I feel I have the right to speak out in this domain after a 37-year occupation as a co-owner of a New Zealand automotive publication.

O Campbell, Papamoa Beach.

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