Comment guidelines

We invite all readers to contribute their comments to the ODT website.

  • All comments are moderated, which means they will be checked before they appear on the site.
  • Comments must be on-topic and not abusive.
  • Comments are restricted to 1200 characters (approx 200 words)

What we expect:

  • Your comments must not be personally abusive or use threatening language.
  • Do not use swear words.
  • Do not use language or make comments that can be considered discriminatory on the basis of race, religion, gender, sexual preference, nationality, age or disability. Your comments must not contain, defamatory, obscene, pornographic, or otherwise illegal material.

What you can expect:

  • Your comments will not be posted immediately but will first be reviewed in the same way as Letters to the Editor.
  • Comments may be edited for length, clarity and legal reasons.

Why are certain comments edited or not used?

The most common reasons comments are edited are:

  • They are too long
  • They make claims which are potentially defamatory, cannot be easily substantiated or demand the right of reply
  • They repeat material the commenter or others have already posted
  • They don't make sense 

Why we need your personal details?

  • We would prefer you to allow your full name to be published with your comments as happens in letters published in the Otago Daily Times. However, you can opt for your first name or user-name to be used instead. 
  • There are times when we need to clarify something. Providing your email address and a phone number allows us to do this if necessary. 
  • We will not publish your email address or phone number.
  • By submitting a comment you are consenting to its display on the site and for any related online and offline use we choose - including publication in the Otago Daily Times print edition. In submitting the comment, you are agreeing to abide by the rules, take responsibility for your comments and accept that these comments may be edited, deleted or not used.

How do I contact ODT Online?

Send us an email to odtonline@odt.co.nz