My concerns about the use of AI in the GP's surgery is summarised by one small example. As part of a health check I was asked if I vaped. I said no I didn't. The notes produced by the AI summary which they humanise by calling it Heidi reported that I "denied" vaping. Technically correct. I did say no, but where is the nuance? Denial implies accusation and suggests that I was not telling the truth. I am sure the doctor would not have used denial as the negative of choice if the notes were compiled manually because he had applied his human abilities to the answer. I have concerns. #AI #NZPol

So there is now no New Zealander of the Year for 2026. Seems a fair assessment of our current state of the nation. Perhaps someone with integrity and under 80 might like to step up and seize the crown. Some charisma and care for humanity and the planet would be a good start. #NZPol

Lee Vandervis is trying to wrest back his long held title of most disruptive Dunedin councillor from his newbie challenger Benedict Ong. https://www.odt.co.nz/news/dunedin/walked-out-or-kicked-out-six-times-vandervis-left-meeting-early #Dunedin #Otepoti

I have largely avoided fantasy in my reading over the years, preferring science fiction, but a couple of recent ventures into the fantasy realm are changing my mind. Robert Jackson Bennett has built a world and a crime fighting duo I can spend time with. Halfway through the second of his Shadow of the Leviathan series and I am hooked. Loved The Tainted Cup and A Drop of Corruption maintains the high standard, A blindfolded detective for heaven’s sake! #bookstodon #fantasy

It is 2026 and Stuff can still offer a headline like this: One in 100-year rainfall recorded in parts of Waikato. https://www.stuff.co.nz/nz-news/360938220/one-100-year-rainfall-recorded-parts-waikato #climateChange #NZPol