Uncorked

As you may see on the road in Blenheim, Picton, Renwick or farther south, Marlborough Weekly has a white Swift. It is easily identified by unmistakeable logos. So, if someone driving it happens to, say, elicit loud honking in a roundabout on, say, Friday, that other motorist knows where to voice displeasure.

Without pointing fingers or casting blame – or conveying any liability, personal or professional – please allow me to apologise on behalf of the person behind the wheel of the Swift at that juncture.

Roundabout rules are a matter of law, of course, but also judgment and etiquette. By and large, Marlburians are gracious people. Patience wears thinner with right of way on roadways.

For those who might need a refresher on how yielding works (how it is supposed to work, anyway), NZTA elaborates on the direction signage as follows:

· Slow down as you come up to the roundabout and be prepared to give way.

· Give way to all vehicles that will cross your path from your right as you enter the roundabout.

· If you're travelling more than halfway around a roundabout, signal right as you come up to the roundabout – and signal left as you pass the exit before the one you wish to take.

Again, I am not saying who might have needed – needs – this refresher. Lesson learned communally?

* * *

Quick follow-up to the previous Uncorked: I had a respectable weekend in the Super Rugby Pacific Tipping Competition!

I am not sure what I did differently in Round 2 than Round 1; whatever it was, I flipped the script. I picked four winners this time – fie on the Highlanders, twice! – to even my record at 5-5.

I know less about the sport than most primary students, so this probably was a fluke. Round 3 ahoy!