Speaking of Billy Te Kahika, one of our skeptical operatives had an interaction with him this past week at Wellington Airport. Here’s his amusing story containing 3 dilemmas:
I arrived late at the airport, thanks to mis-judging Wellington traffic, at 17:35 for a 18:00 take off with a cabin bag full of survey equipment which sometimes attracts extra attention in security.
Heading into the pre-security screening zigzag line and immediately in front of me is Billy Te Kahika. He's walking very slowly, fumbling with his phone, as he is just finishing a live stream about the day’s protest outside Parliament.
Dilemma 1 - Should I subdue the urge to shout "He's talking bullshit" as I really need to get through security without a fuss? I pass him and carry on around the bend in the line but, as I walk back towards him, notice a $50 note fall from his pocket.
Dilemma 2 - he's a conman, should I tell him about his loss? I do tell him he dropped something and, as he turns to look, the man behind him scoops it up and hands it to him. He looks genuinely grateful and says 'Thanks, you're both gentlemen'.
Dilemma 3 - Briefly consider, but resist the urge, of replying 'thanks, but I think you're a morally bankrupt dangerous influencer'
The survey gear did trigger a second bag scan but was OK after that. I just made the flight annoyed that I didn’t confront him but with the certain knowledge it would have been futile.
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