Sixty years of marriage – what stories they could
Dennis and Colleen say trust is the key to 60 years of marriage.
By Leanne Warr
Colleen and Dennis Clark once bought a pub
That was after 25 years of owning a farm in Northland.
They had been hoping to buy a farm in Dargaville, but the deal fell through and on the way home they stopped in at their local drinking establishment and when learning it was for sale, decided to buy it
It probably wasn’t the best move –four months after they took over the hotel, they were robbed at gunpoint.
It’s just one of many stories the Woodville couple can tell after 60 years of marriage
Colleen was 16 when they met –Dennis had come with his father and uncle to the farm her father was managing to go duck shooting
“We lived in Motatau,” Colleen says She left school at age 15 and worked on a 2000-acre (800 hectares) sheep and beef farm
“It also had a massive big swamp on it where a lot of the guys used to go duck shooting.”
While the men were standing around, Colleen rode up on a horse and her father introduced her
Dennis, who also grew up in Northland, had taken a break from farming for about 18 months to work for a company in Auckland and had come home for a bit when he and Colleen met.
When he returned to Auckland, the couple wrote letters to each other, although Colleen was the more frequent correspondent
Colleen was 20 when they married
ON-FARM BULL SALE
on June 5, 1965
Their wedding was held at Christ Church in Whangarei and Colleen wore a dress made by a dressmaker.
After their wedding, they decided to take a trip down the North Island, stopping at the Manawatu Gorge –Colleen has a photo of Dennis at the Gorge - and then drove from Palmerston North to Gisborne
“It was a Sunday,” Dennis says, and there was nothing open for them to get anything to eat.
They stopped in Wairoa at a café, but once they saw the state of the place, they didn’t want to stay Colleen says they drove on to Gisborne, only to find the new motel didn’t have electric blankets and it was a cold night
“By that time we weren’t talking to one another,” she says
After 25 years on the farm and 10 years of running the pub, the couple moved down to the west coast of the South Island, and then to Blenheim.
Five years later they moved to Woodville where they’ve been living ever since
As for the key to their marriage, Colleen and Dennis feel that while they do have arguments, the best part is making up.
“There’s trust too,” Dennis says
“We’re lucky. We never ever in our lives wanted to say ‘I’m gonna leave you ’ It never ever entered my mind for one minute ”
The couple will be celebrating their anniversary with a luncheon
Dennis and Colleen Clark on their wedding day, June 5, 1965.
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Rangitane Launches Fourth Book in Te Wananga Series
By Dave Murdoch
In 2016 Rangitane o Tamaki nui a Rua held a series of Wananga Tikanga, which included writing waiata and gathering stories around tikanga and events people had experienced
A group decided it wanted to develop further their creative writing and waiata composition skills.
Morepork Mountain Trust agreed to support Rangitane’s whanau and hapu to develop these aspirations Te Wananga Writing Event was born
Writers, composers and storytellers met several times before a draft collection was presented at the Fountain Theatre in August 2016 Careful processing of these stories and waiata by Ataneta Paewai and whanau followed and the first edition called Te Wananga Tuatahi was launched in that year
The name Te Wananga came from a Maori newspaper in the 1870s which promoted Maori issues of the day
Subsequent writing events have produced Te Wananga Ngapaeruru (2019) and Te Wananga Matariki (2021), the latest Te Wananga Raikatia being launched on May 19
The launch revealed a wide range of waiata, short stories and poems and several of the writers were present to read from and tell about their creations. Contributions from three members of the Scott whanau (Ross, Kayla Ray and Peggy) who could not be there, were read out
In addition two educational resources were introduced to help iwi to create Putangitanga from gourds to create the sounds of our taiao (natural world) Manahi Paewai who blessed the new book and introduced the resources commented at the end that all of these literary contributions reflect the modern way of doing what Maori elders did in the olden days by telling stories around the fires.
The whole evening was a fascinating experience and Ataneta says she hopes there will be another volume in August
Ataneta Paewai reads from the latest addition in the Te Wananga Series.
Murray Cushing broadcasts his 600th session on Dannevirke Radio
By Dave Murdoch
It all started in April 2010 when Murray Cushing hosted his first broadcast on Dannevirke Radio 107FM
Fifteen years later, after averaging 40 Tuesday morning sessions per year, Murray has reached 600
Murray says it is the best job he has ever done and loves it as much as he did when he started.
He says this has a lot to do with his choice of song drawn from the 1950s to 1980s when he was growing up
Being very interested in music he
remembers the best songs and artists, and for him it is a trip down memory lane
He particularly remembers the touring shows he attended like that of Cliff Richard and the Shadows in Auckland and especially those who came to Dannevirke like Vicki Lee and Lee Grant. This particular session he was playing songs from his top six favourite shows.
Murray also likes to feature local musicians and played Hector the Hero by Harvey Sattrup on keyboard and Graeme Evans on bagpipes during the
Pahiatua ambulance station coming along
morning.
He calculates he will have played his 18,500th song in his 600th session
Murray says he really enjoys the friendships he has struck up between his regular listeners who often ring in a request
He even gets requests online from as far away as Australia because the station is live streamed, he says.
One even contacted him from Brisbane to request I Am Australian by the Ten Tenors
The station has 12 regular presenters
each with their own themes ranging from English and Irish music to eras like Disco and The Eighties
Murray also enjoys their company and those who have all made a contribution in the past He is the longest-serving broadcaster in the station and has no plans to quit any time soon.
Dannevirke Radio 107FM is always broadcasting 24/7 and can be reached by Googling and following the link or give them a ring on 06 374 6601 when an announcer is hosting Dave Murdoch is a freelance writer
Earlier this year, we asked you what you thought about freedom camping in Tararua. You told us that freedom camping is part of the Kiwi way of life, and it's important that changes to local rules protect that, not take it away.
Tararua District Council has developed a draft Freedom Camping Bylaw, with a focus on setting fair, simple rules that protect the places we all love. This isn’t about taking the ‘freedom’ out of freedom camping It’s about making camping safer, and making sure that everyone can enjoy the benefits. This work is being funded by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE). Read the draft Bylaw and let us know what you think by completing a submission form - available
Radio presenter Murray Cushing describes his choice of song The Rose by Sol3 Mio
Radio Station secretary Jim Ryan presents Murray with a 600th Birthday Cake made by Diane Bowie Catering
Norsewood Celebrates Norway Day in style
By Dave Murdoch
Some things were different, while others remained the same at Norsewood’s Norway Day celebrations this year
Norway Day took place on Saturday, May 17 – Norway’s national day – with the start marked by the raising of the Norwegian Flag.
As per tradition, the flag raising took place at Johanna’s World, the model village in upper Norsewood, with Tararua District Mayor Tracey Collis, assisted by long-serving historian of Norsewood John Ellison in the formal flag raising. The Norwegian National Anthem was sung by the Norsewood
School choir, conducted by Birgitta Rolston.
Birgitta gave a short speech, outlining a history of the origin of Norway and its separation from Sweden to the assembled crowd
Around 80 members of the public were present, many dressed in traditional Norwegian costumes and others wearing traditional pioneer costumes
In a break from tradition the Dannevirke Highland Pipe Band, supported by the Horowhenua Pipe Band, led the march up Coronation Street playing traditional Scottish standards to the Memorial Oak Tree, followed by all those in costume waving Norwegian
Flags and other visitors
In the shade of the oak, John told of the migrations of more than 80,000 Norwegians in the 1900s particularly to the USA and eventually in 1872 to New Zealand
He described their struggle to survive in the dense bush and asked two Scandi school dancers to present a native tree to be planted – a token to replace those cut down to survive.
A march back to the Norsewood Museum culminated in the ringing of the Hovding bell by Museum Chairperson Ella Domper
The Hovding was one of the first two ships to bring the settlers Tradition returned when the New Zealand flag was raised at Norsewood School by principal Angela McQuarrie and the New Zealand Anthem was sung by students and the crowd.
Traditional dancing followed, starting with eight tamariki from Country Kids Day Care and then ten dancers from Norsewood School
The winners of a colouring in competition were announced and prizes presented by judge Ella Domper, who said with more than 40 entries, judging it had been a tough call.
The children and supporters were then given a BBQ lunch by Bill Gundersen with Norsewood Lions helping
A Scandinavia cooking competition took place at Norsewood School, with a wide range of savoury and sweet dishes presented.
Tracey and MP for Wairarapa Mike Butterick presented the winners with their awards - in the savoury section with a Smorgetarta was Ann-Marie Kist and Jansen’s Temptation by Sabrina Scott was second
In the baking Birgitta Rolston’s Swedish Apple Tart won, Ann-Marie Kist’s Norwegian Apple Pie was second and Maria Andresen’s Creamy Norwegian Cake was third.
Ellie Rankin, winner of the colouring in, demonstrated her versatility by winning the Kids Baking section with her Serinkaker creation
A bonus in the baking competition was that all the items were sampled at the shared lunch
Before lunch, John described the journey of mostly German settlers on the ship Fritz Reuter 150 years ago saying that their introduction to New Zealand was not very welcoming as the New Zealand government did not want them and had not made plans for their arrival
Eventually they settled in the Te Whiti and Kopua parts of Norsewood and after a long time became a welcome addition to the village John and Maria Andresen who manages Johanna ’ s World cut a commemorative cake
Two families beautifully dressed in traditional costumes then held conversations describing their early life leaving the audience in no doubt life was originally pretty tough Dave Murdoch is a freelance writer
Poppy socks raise $12K for RSA
By Leanne Warr
Phil Grant has a big soft spot for the RSA
His great grandfather was sent home from Gallipoli in World War I
Another relative was part of the Homeguard
A second grandfather was injured twice in World War I and his uncle was a prisoner-of-war while his father served in the Battle of the Coral Sea. Those family connections are why Phil, who owns NZ Natural Clothing in Norsewood, along with his partner Julie Hedley, makes a special effort before each Anzac Day to raise money for the Norsewood RSA
This year, $5 from each sale of Poppy Socks went to the fund, with a total of $12,000 donated to the organisation
Last year the amount was less with a smaller production run and Phil and Julie decided to “ up the ante” by
getting a large batch of socks made locally, as well as another, smaller batch made by a factory in Ashburton
Each factory produced a different look with a more stylised version supplied by Norsewear
Julie says they also chose not to increase the price of the socks
They were thrilled with the response from the public Norsewood RSA president David Hands was amazed by the generosity
The local branch of the RSA was formed in 1922 and has been helping veterans of various conflicts since then.
While some are able to get assistance from Veterans Affairs, there are still some areas where they aren’t able to get that help, so the RSA steps in.
David says he’s grateful for the effort and plans to use the money to help a local veteran as well as put some of the funds towards new flagpoles
David Hands was thrilled with the amount of $12,000 donated to the Norsewood RSA by Phil Grant and Julie Hedley of NZ Natural Clothing.
Birgitta Rolston conducts the Norsewood School Choir singing Norwegian National Anthem at Johanna’s World
All the guests who dressed up posed before the shared lunch.
The Dannevirke and Horowhenua Pipe Bands lead the parade of locals dressed in national and early settler costumes.
Supporters get first look at filmmaker’s latest work
By Leanne Warr
Filming one of the scenes in Shadow of the Deathbird
Derrick Sims’ latest work could be called a “love letter to cinema”
The Pahiatua-based film-maker has completed filming and editing of his Twilight Zone-esque episode Shadow of the Deathbird, and the cast and those who supported the production were able to get a first look at it
The film centres around a young film-maker, played by 10-year-old Isla Sims, with cheeky nods to the likes of Raiders of the Lost Ark, Nosferatu and even some westerns, all on
8mm film
As the young film-maker begins editing a strange creature appears At a Q and A session following the screening, Derrick answered a few of the burning questions about his work, which was filmed at locations in Pahiatua, Palmerston North and Apiti.
While this could be a standalone piece, Derrick always had in his mind that this could be the pilot to a tv show of a similar concept to that of Twilight Zone – separate episodes with a particular theme around mysterious
happenings, titled This World Below
He says the series idea came first and was something he had in his head right from the age of 13.
“It’s been written out in a script about six or seven pages long and it’s been sitting in my mind for 30 years ” Shadow of the Deathbird originally wasn’t going to be the pilot to the potential tv series
“I wrote a separate pilot which is now moved to like episode three or four.”
Derrick says he didn’t feel as con-
nected to that episode and decided to try something else and Shadow was what came out.
The concept in the episode of the young film-maker is partially based on Derrick’s childhood
For the series, most of the planned episodes include a supernatural element and all take place within the region – or at least a fictional version of it, at different time periods
Shadow of the Deathbird is set in 1989
Derrick and wife Alaina’s children are the main characters in the episode and Alaina says they are both “hardcore” when it comes to films
The children are homeschooled and writing about films is part of their education
“That’s just something that’s important to us, ” Alaina says “Being able to tell stories and being able to appreciate the stories that other people tell in longer formats ”
Derrick also recruited some of his former students from his teaching days at Ucol, where he says he tried to ingrain an appreciation for old filmmaking techniques, as well as the communal experience of watching films.
A screening is planned for June 9 at the Regent Pahiatua
Derrick says he is showing the concept to someone who could help greenlight the series, or if that doesn’t happen, he might release Shadow of the Deathbird as a standalone short film and do a festival run
A police dog with a handler. Photo/NZ Police
Animals in combat are not the only ones to be recognised internationally with medals
In a continuation of the Bush Telegraph’s look at Purple Poppy Day and the role of animals in conflict from May 5, we took a look at police dogs
Only one police dog has been given the PDSA Gold Medal, considered the civilian equivalent to the PDSA Dickin
Citrus PN#635764
Female Budgie approx 1yr 2mths
Talkative & loves to chirp & whistle Doesn’t seem to mind dogs Learning to be handled
Barry M#610836
Male mixed breed approx 7yrs
Spent years on a chain. He loves attention.
Good at sneaking cuddles & pats Loves walks.
Medal and is also known as the animal equivalent of the George Cross –the highest award given by the British Government for non-operational gallantry
The Dickin Medal, created by the People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals, was created by the founder of the organisation, to recognise the work of animals in World War II
Flash PN#612381
Male Thoroughbred approx 8 ½ years old 16’1hh. He’s been previously trialled but not raced Flash will need an experienced owner
Goldie M#586896
Male mixed breed approx 2yrs 8mths
Charming, affectionate & kind Suit a family with older children.
The Gold Medal recognises other animals – although mostly dogs – if they assist in saving other lives, endangering their own lives, or through exceptional devotion to duty
According to internet sources, this can also include animals in public service, if the animal is severely injured or dies in the line of duty
One ‘civilian’ dog was posthumously awarded the PDSA Gold Medal – a 14-year-old terrier named George, (died 2007), saving three children from a dog attack
But there’s no denying the sometimes-dangerous work our police dogs do.
There have been police dogs in New Zealand since 1956.
According to the history of the police dog section, on the police.govt.nz website, a police sergeant from England came to New Zealand, invited by thenPrime Minister Sid Holland after he’d seen a police dog school in Surrey
The sergeant, Frank Riley, brought a fully-trained police dog, a ninemonth-old, two bitches and 12 two-
If you are interested in any of these animals please enquire through the SPCA website www.spca.nz – each animal is registered under their individual ID number.
The letter before each animal’s ID number is the SPCA they are housed in.
Ramalambadingdong
M#640327
Suffolk Ram approx 9mths
Needs space, good fences & other sheep friends.
Medals for animals – our police dogs
month-old puppies.
Two officers were recruited to become dog handlers and a Dog Training Centre was set up in Trentham, where the police training school was located
Sadly, Dante, 9 months old when he was brought to New Zealand, died in a training accident in 1960
In 1981, the Police College was moved to Porirua, but the centre remained in Trentham
Up until 2017, it was recorded that there had been 24 police dogs killed while on duty since 1972
However, the only New Zealand police dog to be awarded the gold medal was Gage, in 2013.
In 2010, police dog Gage, a German Shepherd police dog, suffered a fatal gunshot wound while protecting his injured handler during a routine drug search
A Wall of Remembrance was built at the Police Dog Training Centre and unveiled in 2017
Source: https://www.police.govt. nz/about-us/structure/teams-units/ dog-section/history
Hattie
M#633391
Female Domestic Short
Hair approx 5mths
Playful, affectionate (on her terms), food motivated tabby kitten.
From the Mayor
Tēnā koutou katoa Greetings to you all
Our road of opportunity is almost open after eight years of hardship and endurance resilience, and with it, a new era of opportunity and growth for our district
We are buzzing with excitement as we prepare to welcome a future shaped by enhanced connectivity, economic vibrancy, and tourism potential
We are incredibly grateful to everyone involved in bringing this project to life from planners, designers, construction teams to those who championed its vision and fought for it to be free Throughout the build we have enjoyed the economic benefit through employment and local spend, all of which have been monitored as part of the social outcomes and as it finishes this will be felt in our business community As we near the opening, we are launching a “Love Our Highway” campaign This initiative aims to encourage visitors and road users to stop, explore, dine, shop, and unwind in the Tararua District We want everyone passing through to discover what makes our region so special
We know from previous infrastructure projects that new roads bring increased visitors and rising property values and while ours replaces a lost connection, it also opens entirely new possibilities Now is our time to showcase Tararua as a destination to visit, a place to live and grow a business
A unique feature of the highway is the shared sealed path that runs alongside it offering cyclists and pedestrians a safe and scenic way to experience our breathtaking landscapes The path also ventures into the natural environment, providing views of the Manawatū and Tararua regions
Adding to this vision, the Council successfully secured a $250,000 grant from the Te Ahu a Turanga Recreational Path Fund to start to develop the Lindauer On-Road Cycleway This route will enhance access to the historic Old Gorge Cemetery with its rich history and stunning views This is a multi-year project that represents the beginning of a broader visitor experience connecting the highway to the the trails of Te Āpiti – Manawatū Gorge Further funding will be sought to realise the full potential of this trail network
We also await the NZTA Waka Kotahi business case on reopening safe sections of the old Manawatū Gorge Road a development that could significantly boost tourism and regional connectivity
We’ve waited We’ve planned And now, it's here! Let’s talk up the road, celebrate, and embrace the opportunities ahead Love our highway Noho ora mai - all the best Tracey Collis - Mayor
MONDAY // 2 June // 2025
*The Over 65 fee is only for urban dog owners that are not already preferred owners Owners will have to apply for the Over 65 fee and provide proof of their age
Tararua’s largest local roading project took out the Supreme Award at the Āpōpō Asset Management Excellence Awards in Christchurch on Thursday 15 May Āpōpō is the professional association for New Zealand's infrastructure asset management community
A small group of representatives from Tararua attended the awards as the Route 52 Huarahi Tūhono Weber to Wimbledon upgrade was a finalist in the Community category The project not only won the Community category but was also awarded the overall Supreme Award, Kōmata o Te Rangi
Murray Pugh, Āpōpō Chief Executive, commented that “Such fit for purpose asset management led infrastructure renewal represents exactly what the Awards judges were looking for to inspire others in the asset management profession The community involvement, practical solution focus, and iterative learning and application, made this project stand apart as an exemplar and worthy of the 2025 Āpōpō Asset Management Excellence Supreme Award”
Tararua Alliance Manager Daniel Erard said, “Everyone’s over the moon To have this national recognition for a Tararua project is fantastic and reflects the hard work of every single person who worked on Route 52 This $16 6 million upgrade was delivered by locals, for locals The subcontractor teams from HES Earthmoving and Alabaster Contracting were amazing Our entry described the skill of our local workforce and the project management by Tararua Alliance Due to the asset management expertise we have in the Alliance, we were able to do the engineering and design inhouse”
“The team learnt so much on this project that also helped the district after Cyclone Gabrielle We learned from the local landowners who had generational knowledge about the conditions in Weber and Wimbledon, and how the road was originally built That knowledge paid off as the project stood up to multiple storms, as well as cyclones Gabrielle, Dovi and Hale”
The community category was looking for a project that showed excellence in asset management as well as uplifting a community The Route 52 project created the equivalent of fulltime work for 230 people, with 91% local
Kōmata o Te Rangi, a taurapa (canoe sternpost), is Āpōpō’s Supreme Award, and a symbol of the elite, a representation of a pinnacle, or the zenith, carved by Bronson Baker - an Auckland born carver of Ngati Tuwharetoa, Nga Puhi and Te Arawa descent The award will be treasured by the Tararua District until it is passed on to next year’s Supreme winner
Kōmata o Te Rangi was received into the Tararua District at the Infrastructure, Climate Change and Emergency Management meeting at Tararua District Council on Wednesday 21 May
Staying informed in an emergency
In the event of an emergency where power has been lost and mobile phone and internet communications are down then the best source of communications will come from the radio Both national radio stations and local radio stations will be integral in getting the information that you need to know what is happening and to help guide you through the situation The Get Ready website advises people to tune into the following radio station and frequencies during an emergency:
Radio New Zealand - 99 1FM, 101FM, 101 5FM and 567AM
The Hits - 89 5FM, 90 3FM and 97 8FM
Newstalk ZB - 90 3FM, 100 2FM, 103 9FM and 1278AM
MoreFM - 88 7FM, 92 2FM and 89 5-105 9FM
In addition to the national stations, we have a host of local radio stations that will provide localised information to you and we recommend you tune into these stations and frequencies:
Radio Dannevirke, 107FM +livestream: www.radiodannevirke.co.nz
Radio Eketāhuna, 88.3FM and 106.5FM
Radio Woodville, 88.3FM (Pahiatua) and
Norsewear footing it with the world’s best
By Leanne Warr
“We were up against the world’s best, and we won. ”
Tim Deane, owner of Norsewear factory in Norsewood, is delighted to have won the contract to produce socks for the New Zealand Defence Force
It’s a big win for the small rural community, of which Norsewear has been a part since 1967.
It all started more than 18 months ago.
Tim, who bought the Norsewear brand and factory in 2023, says the company had a small contract with the defence force for their PT socks, working through a company called ADA (Australian Defence Apparel) NZ
He says ADA set up in 2023 and won the contract for the defence force from another company called Workwear
“We were making some PT socks and I thought we could do a better job ”
So he suggested to ADA that he could submit something better
“I guess I was taking a fresh look at what we were supplying and we supplied some samples of better PTD socks
“As a result of that, the defence force and ADA decided to put the PT sock contract up to pitch ”
Norsewear won that contract against other suppliers
Then Tim suggested they could also supply combat socks if given the opportunity and that contract was also put up for pitching
What followed was trials and he says
by the time they got to the end, they thought they had something that was going to suit the need.
“We’re never going to be the biggest, we ’ re never going to be the cheapest, so we have to be the best
“That’s been the case since the company was founded.”
It was in 1963 when a Norwegian, Ola Rian, fell in love with New Zealand and set up the company, initially in Johnsonville.
Then, as honorary consul for Norway, he came to Norway Day in Norsewood in 1967 and saw a disused dairy factory and shop and decided to set up shop.
Now Norswear employs about 20 people out of a town of 150 in its 1500 sqm factory
Tim believes that it’s their different approach to manufacturing that may have helped them win the contract, by knowing where the wool comes from and controlling the whole process, from farm through to foot.
“We do think we ’ ve got a competitive edge because we control that process right through from start to finish and because we ’ ve got some very good sock engineers
“Everyone at the factory is really focused on making sure that excellent stuff goes out the door ”
Tim believes what also helps is the “Fair Go” guarantee, where if anyone has a problem with a product, they will do their best to get it resolved
“If you treat people well, when things
don’t go well, they’ll remember that and you build loyalty from the customers if you treat them fairly
“I think that’s also been a real characteristic of Norsewear all the way through and it’s certainly continuing that it’s important to us
Tim adds that the contract is important for the company saying that it’s enabled them to invest in new machin-
ery and employ extra staff
“It’s also important because it demonstrates that we ’ re very good at what we do.”
He says the socks are “ very technical” and developed especially for the defence
“[To] demonstrate your capability in being able to foot it with the world’s best, yeah, it’s a real thrill ”
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Tim Deane at the Norsewear factory in Norsewood.
Empty plot at Alliance plant transformed into
flourishing wetland
An unused plot of land at Alliance
Dannevirke’s meat processing plant has been transformed into a flourishing wetland
Alliance staff, with local contractors, completed the initial planting of the area and local schools and community groups will be invited to further planting days to enhance the 2.32 hectare wetland
Home to more than 2700 native plants, the wetland includes Tī Kōuka (cabbage tree), Harakeke (flax) and Manuka, among others
The plot has been given a vibrant new life and also services as part of the facility’s stormwater drainage system
Chad Wallace, engineering manager at the plant, says the project arose from a suggestion from Horizons Regional Council during discussions about the site’s stormwater consent in 2021.
“The project demonstrates how business requirements can align with environmental and cultural values
“The wetland now plays a crucial
role in the plant’s stormwater network while providing a living example of ecosystem restoration ”
He said the wetland has been fully fenced and planted with native trees and shrubs that will thrive in both dry and wet conditions.
“The water flowing into this space comes from surface runoff and the Alliance buildings ”
Chad gave thanks to Alliance team members and local partner organisations who helped bring the project to
fruition
Work began in March 2022 and was blessed by Kaumātua from both local iwi, Rangitāne o Tamaki nui-ā-Rua and Ngāti Kahungunu ki Tāmaki nuiā-Rua
Matua Manahi Paewai, who had also previously blessed the plant in 2003 when it was rebuilt by Alliance Group, shared stories about the area ’ s history, creating a meaningful link between industrial development and cultural heritage
From left: Ngatiria Reweti, Lucresha Mason, Manahi Paewai, Chad Wallace, Noel Fairley, Nathan Aitken-Cade and Ashleigh Ahipene beside the newly-created wetland.
Across 1 Faith (6)
4 Startles (9)
9. Gibe (4)
11 Mountain (3)
12 Misery (3)
13 Fever (4)
15 Divisions (5)
16. Flower garland (3)
17 Story (4)
19 Leavened Indian bread (4)
21 Happy (4)
23. Wipe (3)
24 Stroke (6)
26 Heroic (4)
27. Perform (3)
28 Appropriate (3)
30. Warm and comfortable (4)
31 Legal defence (5)
32. Climb (5)
34 Pleased, selfsatisfied (5)
35 Always (4)
36 Swimming attire (4)
38. Assist in a crime (4)
39 Vessel (4)
40. Cricket team (6)
44 Thus far (3)
45 Overseas (6)
46. Article (4)
48 Barks (4)
50. Loan shark (6)
51 Consume (3)
53 Husband or wife (6)
57. Travel stamp (4)
58 Out of control (4)
59 Person in charge (4)
61 Merit (4)
63 Feeling of anxiety (5)
65. Haggard (5)
67 Statement accepted as being true (5)
68 Atmosphere (4)
69 Yes (3)
70. Restrict (3)
71 Tricks (4)
72 Tranquil (6)
75 Offspring (3)
76 Counts up (4)
79. Alleviate (4)
81 Narrow road (4)
82 Recede (3)
83 Alliance (5)
84 Modify text (4)
85. Mimic (3)
86 A concert or performance (3)
87 Stagger (4)
88 Keep trying (9)
89. Cuts in two (6) Down
1 More often than not (2,3,5)
2 Notion (4)
3. Animals of an area (5)
4 Fit of extravagance (5)
5 Rejection (7)
6. Reddish brown (6)
7 Serviceman (7)
8. Gulp (4)
9 Greek letter (4)
10 Inhales (8)
14. Free from restraint (8)
18. Slowly (music) (6)
20 Attain (7)
22 Terrain (4)
25. Ascend (4)
29 Of little importance (5)
30 Exceed (7)
33 Long for (5)
34. Pallid (5)
36 Trunk (5)
37. Inform on someone (colloq) (5)
41 Lariat (5)
42. Computer attack (5)
43 State of bliss (7)
47. Intended (5)
49 Twisted or squint (5)
52 Late (5)
54. Cure for all ills (7)
55 Impartial (8)
56. Eradicates (10)
59 Single man (8)
60 Mariner (6)
62. Gambler’s stake (4)
63 Dry (4)
64. Drool (7)
66 Temporary relief (7)
69 Accept without proof (6)
73 Scope (5)
74 Whinny (5)
77 Agreement (4)
78 Leak slowly (4)
80. Vend (4)
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Cinema has special screening to mark David
Attenborough’s birthday
Two of the oldest in the audience: Connie Webster and Stalky Law got to cut the birthday cake at the screening of the documentary OPINION
By Caroline Gyde -Tararua REAP
More than 60 members of the community got a chance to see the new documentary from David Attenborough at Dannevirke’s Regent Cinema
The release of the documentary, David Attenborough: Ocean coincided with the biologist and natural historian ’ s 99th birthday on May 8th, a special occasion that added significance to the screening Ocean is a groundbreaking documentary that took two years to film Attenborough considers it one of the most important works of his career, emphasising the vital role oceans play in maintaining stability for our world.
He viewed this documentary as his last chance to share his message to a global audience, especially younger generations
The film explores the breathtaking beauty of the oceans, the destructive fishing practices threatening marine life, and hopeful pathways for recovery It emphasises sustainable fishing, restoring ocean health, and protecting our planet
He hoped to inspire viewers to become advocates for our oceans
The special birthday screening was a collaboration between the cinema and Tararua REAP, supported with sponsorship from Scanpower.
The sponsorship enabled reduced
ticket prices, making the event accessible to many
A heartfelt thanks was extended to the Dannevirke Regent Cinema and Tararua REAP staff and cinema volunteers who helped organise and run the event.
Following the film, the celebration culminated with afternoon tea made by a cinema volunteer and featuring a birthday cake prepared by the Regent Café The cake was cut by Connie Webster and Stalky Law, audience members who were closest in age to David Attenborough The crowd spontaneously erupted into singing Happy Birthday to Sir David as candles were blown out, creating a memorable moment
“Amazing underwater footage that makes you realise how spectacular and important the ecosystems of our oceans are, ” one audience member commented “David Attenborough highlighted the unbelievable destruction caused by inefficient greed-driven practices of deep-sea trawling and how this releases stored carbon into the atmosphere This documentary is an inspiring reminder that a healthy ocean is our most powerful tool to reduce climate change ”
Students from Year 6 to Year 13 have also had the opportunity to view the documentary and more than 75 primary and secondary school students have seen it. They were fully engaged in the
documentary and left with lots of questions and new knowledge
“It was a great way to express the problems of pollution, overfishing and climate change, making everyone aware of how we can change it in the future.” Poppy Buchanan, from St Joseph’s School said.
“I loved Ocean! I thought the photography and being able to see marine creatures I’ve never seen before, was astonishing ” Victoria Green, from St Joseph’s School said
Thirty-one students and two teachers from Dannevirke High School came along, with some stating that the documentary was very good but that it was quite an emotional experience
The initiative aimed to educate young people on their role as ocean stewards, highlighting the ocean ’ s wonders, threats, and how collective effort can promote recovery
Dannevirke Regent Cinema and Tararua REAP have a history of successful collaboration and look forward to future projects, including a Te Reo version of Disney’s Encanto for schools, Kohanga Reo and early childhood centres coming shortly
Special thanks to Scanpower for their ongoing support in our community, which has been instrumental in bringing this community event to life and subsidising school screenings.
Women’s Fours produce highlight of Dannevirke bowls season
Public Notices
of
Please phone Andrea Short for more information about Dr Short’s practice and
RENEWAL OF OFF LICENCE
Section 101, Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012
TARARUA ST JOHN HEALTH SHUTTLE
Doorstep to doorstep service, for Eketahuna, Woodville, Pahiatua
Thursday 19th June, 2025 7pm at the Brass Band Rooms, Dannevirke. All Welcome Bi Monthly meeting will follow
CLUB
Funeral Directors
SDSS LIMITED, a private company, 128 Awatere Street, Pegasus 7612, has made application to the District Licensing Committee at Dannevirke for the renewal of an OffLicence, in respect of the premises situated at 14 Miller Street, Dannevirke, known as Super Liquor Dannevirke
The general nature of the business conducted under the licence is Bottle Store
The days on which, and the hours during which alcohol is intended to be sold under the licence are Monday to Sunday 10am to 10pm.
The application may be inspected during ordinary office hours at the office of the Tararua District Licensing Committee at the Dannevirke Service Centre, 26 Gordon Street, Dannevirke
Any person who is entitled to object and who wishes to object to the issue of the licence may, not later than 25 working days after the date of the publication of this notice, file a notice in writing of the objection with the Secretary of the District Licensing Committee at Tararua District Council, PO Box 115, Dannevirke 4942. No objection to the renewal of a licence may be made in relation to a matter other than a matter specified in Section 131 of the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012. This is the second publication of this notice Junction
By Dave Murdoch
In a finale to a good season, Women’s Fours of the Dannevirke Bowling Club won the Manawatu Champions of Champions Competition
The team, consisting of Kerrie Gundersen (Skip), Moala Coldstream, Judy Brown and Colleen McCutcheon had fought their way through the season and made the final against North End by beating Feilding and Horowhenua at Foxton Beach on April 12.
They played North End on their greens on May 10 and won in a cliff-hanger 21-20 on the last end The game did not look good from a Dannevirke perspective half way though at 11-2 down but a good pep-talk from supporters did the trick with two superb bowls from lead Moala Coldstream early on setting the target which was not bettered
The team now has qualified to play in the New Zealand Nationals in Dunedin at the start of August and are busy fund-raising to get there. Meanwhile they were not the only Dannevirke bowlers to gain Manawatu awards with
Eddie Warrington winning the Manawatu Over 65 Years Men’s Singles earlier in the season
The whole men ’ s section of the club is thriving with new players joining, the greens in great condition thanks to Vice President Grant Mainwaring’s care and some very promising player coming on
They currently hold three of the Centre Challenge Trophies out of four These trophies are very old and are now represented by photographs They can be challenged by clubs ranging from Bulls to Himatangi any time in the season and Dannevirke currently hold three of the four
President Jim Harding says while there it is good to acknowledge the winners it is also important that without others competing there would be no competitions and trophies to be won.
The women ’ s team is looking for a sponsor or any amount of financial support. Contact Colleen McCutcheon on 06 374 7568 Dave Murdoch is a freelance writer
The triumphant Dannevirke Women’s Fours team with President and Vice-President, at Prizegiving. From left: Kerrie Gundersen (Skip), Moala Coldstream, President Jim Harding, Judy Brown, Colleen McCutcheon, Vice President Grant Mainwaring
Dannevirke Sports Club day includes Excelsior reunion
By Dave Murdoch
With the recent passing of a longtime stalwart of Excelsior Rugby Park it was a good opportunity for an informal reunion
Bill Webster died in January and long-time member Pat Walshe decided to hold an informal reunion to recognise Bill’s long service as manager, taking the opportunity to touch base with former club members.
With the help of Mike (Lofty) Harold and Lynda and Bob Scrimshaw a date was arranged with the Dannevirke Sport Club to coincide the event with its Club Day on May 17
A message was sent out on social media inviting ex-Excelsior players to attend saying it was “ an informal gathering to recall the seemingly endless great days of our club, the friendships made, games won and lost, Easter tournaments, bus trips and the like At the same time we’ll raise a glass to Bill Webster who passed away recently – Bill having been a long time member of the club holding various positions mostly remembered as our extremely efficient manager for many years. ”
The message spread widely and on
the day from noon the Dannevirke Sports Club rooms at Rugby Park began to fill sparked by a busload of former players from Hawke’s Bay and Waipukurau Visitors from Auckland, the South Island and even Australia made the journey
Pat Walshe was delighted with the response.
By the time the Dannevirke Sports Team and its Bulls opponents joined after their game, the rooms were chock full, the crowd estimated at over 150, the bar was flat out and many experiences were shared
Even a group of ladies were present claiming that they were the core of the club’s success over the years.
Bill Webster was honoured along with a toast to other members who had passed and by the time the bus returned to Hawke’s Bay the crowd was well settled to enjoy the Sports Club’s entertainment that went well into the night
Financially the Rugby Sub-Union benefitted from a much bigger gate-takings than usual, and the Dannevirke Sports Club benefitted from the bar proceeds
Even a loyal bunch of ladies made the trip.
Dannevirke Junior Hockey in full swing
By Dave Murdoch
With 178 registered players in 26 teams Dannevirke Junior hockey is in full swing already three rounds into the ten-round season with the first washed out.
Half-hour games are played between 4pm and 5.30pm on a Friday evening with high school students as referees and parents as coaches Organiser Naomi Castles
says without the Dannevirke High School girls acting as referees / coaches the games could not run Most matches are played on the turf at the Dannevirke Tennis Club’s courts which had recently been refurbished making it an ideal surface for the junior five-aside teams The year 1-2 players called the Fun Sticks learn basic skills before playing short games on the
courts followed by Year 3-4 called the Mini Sticks and the Year 5-6 called Kiwi Sticks playing halfhour matches
The senior year 7-8s called the Kwik Sticks play on the Dannevirke High School tennis/hockey turf where there is more space for teams to play six-aside
There are usually as many parents and grandparents present
each week as players, creating a very pleasant atmosphere
Naomi says in week three, they are starting to see teamwork within the teams developing and there is always a high level of enthusiasm from the players
She says she is working on some development options to bring some additional skills training and development for the kids
Organisers of the Excelsior Rugby Club reunion From left: Mike (Lofty) Harold, Lynda and Bob Scrimshaw and Pat Walshe.
Only a small representation of all the attendees in the Rugby Park facilities.
The year 1-2 Fun sticks focus on skills before having a short game.
The year 3-4 Mini Sticks have a large number of teams Puketoi coming all the way in to play Huia Range.
Another Mini-sticks clash between Weber and Ruahine was keenly fought.
The year 7-8 Kwik Sticks play at Dannevirke High School, in this case St Joseph’s v Huia Range.
Athleticism and community at cross country
Kumeroa School was the host when six rural schools competed in the 2025 Rural Schools Cross Country
The wind was high, the skies moody, but spirits soared as the schools came together in a heartening display of athleticism and community at the welcoming grounds of Kumeroa School.
Students from Ballance, Pongaroa, Mangatainoka, Alfredton, Makuri and Kumeroa, tackled challenging courses of up to nearly 4km, weaving through paddocks and around the undulating countryside of the Kumeroa area
This year marked the beginning of Cross Country as an annual competition (replacing the biannual Road Race) with the event now set to be hosted every year by Kumeroa School
The collegiality among the competitors was as impressive as their athletic efforts, with each school cheering on not just their own runners, but every student crossing the finish line.
Kumeroa School principal Lucy Stone kept the event upbeat and inclusive, providing vibrant and encouraging commentary to add to the warm
vibe of the café area, set up to fuel the runners and spectators
Lucy’s energy, mixed with her genuine pride in the students and the day, set the tone for what became a celebration of rural education and community
Attendees enjoyed hot drinks from the Gather, Sip, Savour coffee cart, the sizzle of sausages on the barbecue, and irresistible home baking thanks to Kumeroa School’s ever-enthusiastic fundraising committee a group of dedicated whānau whose support was
evident throughout the day.
Kumeroa School shone not only as host but as an example of what a rural education feels like warm, positive, and deeply rooted in community values The school staff and volunteers made sure every runner felt like a winner and every visitor felt like family. With its rolling hills, warm welcomes, and tireless team spirit, Kumeroa School has proven itself a perfect home for this annual event and a beautiful place to grow, learn, and run wild; rain or shine
Six schools took part in the rural schools cross country event.
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Tender
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Offered to the market for the first time in over 100 years Limehurst presents a rare opportunity to acquire a diverse and highly productive breeding, finishing and trading farm in a sought-after location just 15 minutes east of Pahiatua With over 70 ha of very productive flat to undulating contour which is all in superior pastures and crops coupled with balanced hill country provides an optimal farming business. Complementing Limehursts farming operation is over 80 ha of steeper hill country which was planted and registered in 2023 in a mix of pines, redwoods and native adding further revenue The farming infrastructure is well suited to the farming operation and consists of a four-stand woolshed with covered yards (900 npc), multiple satellite yards, 2 x cattle yards with load out and handling facilities, airstrip with bin and reticulated water throughout Limehurst features three homes which provides ample accommodation for the farming operation and purchase options with one of the dwellings on a smaller 1 ha footprint Currently run as a breeding, finishing, and trading unit, Limehurst has been highly developed and maintained, offering excellent scale, diversity and income streams, including farming, cash cropping and forestry
Tender closes 2.00pm, Tue 17th Jun, 2025, Property
129 Main Street Pahiatua View By appointment Web pb.co.nz/PR204633
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