Helsinki hairdresser Kati Hakomeri has divided global opinion by introducing a chat-free service. The silent hair appointment - practically an oxymoronic concept has brought a clamour of requests to make the option compulsory everywhere and extend it to taxis - while traditionalists have mourned another symptom of the decline of civil society.
But a recent British survey suggests taciturnity is not just for the Finns. On top of data charting 33 billion fewer minutes spent on the phone in the UK than a decade ago, a poll found a quarter of Gen Zers and Millennials (18- to 35-year-olds) claim never to have answered a phone in their lives. Unsolicited conversation is being rationed.
This story is from the June - 1-7 2024 edition of New Zealand Listener.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the June - 1-7 2024 edition of New Zealand Listener.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Ewes know it
'It has been my life's work,\" I announced grandly and quite possibly pompously the other day to Greg, no other audience being available, \"to advocate for the advancement of sheep.\" He pointed out that this was patently untrue. If it was true, he said annoyingly, although quite possibly reasonably, I'd have started my life's work a bit earlier, given that I had taken up this selfless work only seven years ago, the length of time we have been at Lush Places.
A moral panic
America's top doctor wants smoking-style warning labels for social media platforms.
Give and take
We're likely to reciprocate if someone's nice to us unexpectedly.
Culture club
Whether you make yoghurt at home with your own starter or buy a commercial brand, the health benefits remain roughly the same.
Now for the news
How will Stuff's take on broadcast news match up to its polished predecessor?
Time to rewind
A leaner NZ International Film Festival programme still offers promising local debuts and some art cinema classics.
Come dancing
Albums from Anna Coddington and Peggy Gou are smart and sassy. Bonny Light Horseman leans on heartache.
Calling on the muse
Kiwi journalist Garth Cartwright recalls his audience with the late Françoise Hardy in Paris.
Artist of high standing
Waiheke Island sculptor Anton Forde talks about creating the largest contemporary pou installation of his career.
'You were salvation'
A repurposed supply vessel provides a lifeline to migrants who risk their lives to cross the Mediterranean in a desperate bid for a new life.
