‘True spirit of volunteerism’
Debbie Paterson receives Alf Rowden Humanitarian Award
By Leanne Warr
Tararua District mayor Tracey Collis says that she was a little worried Debbie Paterson might not accept her nomination to the Alf Rowden Humanitarian Award.
“This is huge for you to be sitting there and allowing us to say thank you to you, ” Tracey says
The Eketahuna resident was presented with the award last week, in recognition of her 28 years of service to Hato Hone St John and to the community Eketahuna Community Board
chairman Steen McGhie says the Eketahuna Lions Club Alf Rowden Humanitarian Award was named after former deputy mayor Alf Rowden, with the first award presented in 1985.
Since then there have been 23 recipents, with Debbie being the 24th.
Steen spoke of his own experience with needing Debbie’s help which required him being transported by helicopter to Palmerston North
Other residents also spoke during the presentation, thanking Debbie for “being there” with one member
of the local fire brigade commenting that “it’s always good when you have to go to a medical call and someone turns up with a bit more experience than us ”
In the nomination, read out by Steen, it was stated that Debbie has been a dedicated volunteer first responder with more than two decades of service.
“Debbie has not only been an invaluable asset to St John’s team, but has become a beloved and trusted member of the community
“Debbie has exemplified the true spirit of volunteerism, showing up when it matters most and providing care and support of the most critical situations.”
The nomination also stated that while Debbie was humble and shy by nature, she “consistently demonstrates extraordinary bravery, professionalism and compassion”
“Her quiet dedication speaks volumes about her character ”
Tracey told Debbie it was “ an honour to stand here and tell you what you mean to this community through everything that you ’ ve done”.
She says Debbie has made an extraordinary contribution to the community and to the wider Tararua District
In the past month, there had been 35 callouts for an ambulance in the local area and Debbie had responded to 29 of those, attending 26
Debbie was also made a Member of the Order of St John in 2014, which Tracey says is a recognition that “ reflects her unwavering commitment and exceptional service”
“Over the years, Debbie has not only given her time, but her heart, skill and energy to our community in the most meaningful way possible, saving lives and being there in the moment of crisis when people are at their most vulnerable.”
Debbie says she joined St John at a time when there was a need for people from the community
She says she does it as much for herself as for the community.
“It’s been an honour to serve this community.”
Debbie was presented with flowers and a gift from Tracey as well as the award
Steen McGhie presents Debbie Paterson with the Alf Rowden Humanitarian Award at a special presentation evening in Eketahuna.
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Lampposts returned to Woodville
By Leanne Warr
Lampposts that once stood at the home of a former Woodville man have been donated back to the community
John Beattie, who died in March this year, wanted the posts to go back to Woodville and had contacted Tararua District mayor Tracey Collis
Tracey says the family always had strong ties to Woodville and purchased the lampposts when Woodville converted to electricity in the 1920s.
“It’s fitting that in Woodville’s 150th year, this piece of history has been returned to the community.”
John’s daughter, Rachel, says the posts have been in the family since before she was born.
At some point in the 1940s, the originally gas-powered lamps were converted to electricity.
John, a sheep farmer from Woodville, married Judy Hammond, who was from another local family.
Rachel says he was a proud Woodvillian and very involved in the community.
After his passing, he was buried in the Old Gorge Cemetery, where his parents are also buried
John’s family were present at a gathering to switch on the lights outside the Woodville i-Site. Positively Woodville chairwoman Joy Kopa says John was very determined the lampposts be reinstated as working lights and the community group worked closely with John, Tararua District Council and Scanpower to make it happen
She says the posts were sandblasted and painted with industrial grade paint to ensure lon-
gevity and they worked with the council to determine the best site for the installation.
Lines company Scanpower was able to do the required refit to get the lights working as well as installed in the ground and wired to a timer to match the town’s streetlights
A commemorative plaque was sponsored by Woodville Lions Club and installed by Tararua Alliance.
“It was a very successful collaborative project,” Joy says
“Completing the project within our sesquicentennial year was perfect timing.”
Joy Kopa from Positively Woodville and mayor Tracey Collis at the gathering to switch on the lights John’s family were there to witness the moment.
Te Ahu a Turanga: Manawatu-Tararua highway opens
At the ‘ribbon-cutting’ last Saturday, attended by Minister of Transport Chris Bishop, MPs, Tararua District Mayor Tracey Collis, Palmerston North Mayor Grant Smith, iwi and other stakeholders. It opened without fanfare.
While there was an invitation-only blessing, attended by Minister of Transport Chris Bishop as well as local dignitaries and stakeholders, last Saturday, Te Ahu a Turanga: Manawatū Tararua Highway was opened to traffic last Wednesday morning with just an announcement via social media
The new 11 5km connecting Ashhurst and Woodville has officially become State Highway 3, replacing the Manawatu Gorge road, which was permanently closed in 2017 due to slips
Those who got their first experience on the highway later commented positively on social media.
Construction on the project, said to have cost around $820 million, began in January 2021
It was built by an alliance of NZ
Transport Agency, Fulton Hogan, HEB Construction, Aurecon, WSP and iwi: Ngāti Kahungunu ki Tāmaki nuia-Rua, Rangitāne o Manawatū, Rangitāne o Tamaki nui-a-Rua, and Te Runanga o Raukawa (Ngāti Raukawa ki te Tonga and Nga Kaitiaki ō Ngāti Kauwhata).
The highway crosses the Manawatu River over Parahaki Bridge, then over the Eco-Viaduct, taking motorists across an ecologically sensitive wetland, then climbs through the Ruahine Range, weaving between wind turbines and down to the outskirts of Woodville
It also includes a shared user path as well as more than 1 8 million native plants
Project manager Grant Kauri says it was a special moment seeing the first
vehicles on it
“The closure of the Manawatū Gorge road had such a significant impact on people in Manawatū and Tararua. We know the surrounding communities have struggled with the closure so being able to build them a significantly more resilient, safer and efficient road has been a huge privilege,” he says
“The road’s importance to the wider central and lower North Island, including the East Coast, can’t be overstated Te Ahu a Turanga will encourage more travel, while supporting economic growth in the regional economies ”
Communities either side of the Gorge are equally excited
Positively Woodville chairwoman Joy Kopa says residents and businesses in town have been holding their breath for the opening
“It is strange to think we now have a young generation who have never travelled through “the gorge ” and have no memory of the road that served Woodville for so long,” she says
“This new highway will be the new gateway to Tararua District and Woodville is proud to be the town that welcomes travellers to our district ”
Central Economic Development Agency chief executive Jerry Shearman says the new road will unlock numerous long-term benefits for the region and the country
“With Manawatū being home to one of the three key nodes of distribution and logistics in New Zealand, we ’ re beyond excited to have this significant piece of infrastructure completed ”
Grant says the project is so much more than a road and the alliance working on the project placed focus on genuine iwi partnership, health and wellbeing and environmental sustainability
“We worked as partners with five iwi who were represented at all levels of the project, including governance, management and operations
“Their crucial role on the project can be seen in many areas but especially in the wetlands and stream diversions and in the array of stunning mahi toi artwork on the lookouts, structures and roundabouts ”
More than 2500 people were inducted to work on the project, while an even wider group of suppliers provided materials and equipment.
“A key principle of the project is to create enduring community outcomes, which means there is a focus on helping people living in the communities around the project,” Grant says
“Some of these aims included a focus on local and iwi employment, procurement, cultural wellbeing, education and training, and support for schools, charities and community organisations.
“Over the past few years, we ’ ve had so much support from communities on both sides of the gorge, they’ve been with us since day one and we ’ re truly grateful to everyone for being so patient with us
“We are honoured to share such a beautiful piece of road and landscape with those communities ”
Tararua District home to first Powerco PowerHub
Akitio is now the home of electricity and gas supply company Powerco’s first PowerHub
The custom hybrid Stand Alone Power Supply (SAPS) will be able to deliver power to the local hall and act as a community hub during long power outages
Akitio, a coastal community, was one of those severely impacted by Cyclone Gabrielle two years ago.
The PowerHub initiative was developed following the cyclone through discussions with the National Emer-
gency Management Agency groups and other stakeholders within Powerco’s network areas
Residents got to see how the PowerHub will work in a prolonged power outage when the SAPS unit was opened last month
Powerco General Manager Electricity Karen Frew says she’s excited about the potential of PowerHubs during emergencies.
“Hardwiring a bespoke SAPS unit to a community venue is a first for us and it’s an important piece of the resilience
puzzle for some of our isolated communities,” she says.
She adds that while many isolated communities are already highly self-reliant, PowerHubs will enhance existing capabilities by providing additional power support when it’s needed most
“PowerHubs provide a dependable back up, allowing communities to access essential services and continue operating, even in the most remote areas ”
Tararua District Council Emergency
Management Officer Peter Sinclair is pleased to see one of the most isolated communities in the district supported
“For communities at the edge of the grid, having a PowerHub is like having a lifeline,” says Peter Sinclair.
“Energy resilience is about more than keeping the lights on - it’s about giving communities the tools they need to stay connected, supported, and safe during disruption,” he adds.
Councillor Sharon Wards says the installation of the hub is a game changer for the community
At the opening, she reflected to Powerco representatives on her experience following Cyclone Gabrielle, with three trips to Akitio following the weather event
She says watching the people she knew to be resilient and very capable of looking after themselves struggle with the lack of power and communication for days was sobering
“The resilience and ‘hands-off’ approach this generator provides means that residents and visitors will now be able to gather for support, have a hot meal, charge their technology and even sleep there if required
“When the next disaster occurs at our coastline, the lights will be on in Akitio ” Sharon was grateful to the committee and others who worked closely with Powerco to pull off the project and hopes it will be the first of many for resilient rural communities across the region ”
The hub will be able to deliver power to the hall and act as a community hub if there is a long power outage.
MenzShed on the hunt for a new home
By Leanne Warr
Pahiatua’s MenzShed is looking for new premises and need a bit of help from the community.
President Brian Dent spoke to Tararua District Council on the quest to find a new home, hoping the council might have a building they could use
He explained to councillors at the May meeting that there were 187 MenzSheds scattered around New Zealand.
The movement began in Australia in the 1990s, becoming an outlet and social centre for retired men
“It was about mental health and sharing skills and giving back to the community ”
Brian explained that he had been involved with the Kawerau MenzShed until he moved to Pahiatua and the shed there was very successful.
“We were deeply involved in the community up there and it’s a very useful outlet for me. ”
There are members in the group who came from a variety of backgrounds such as electricians, engineers and carpenters and they all share their skills
The Pahiatua members had also got involved with different community groups, helping where they could, such as doing bits and pieces for Pahiatua Museum, and repairing furniture
However, the problem they were
facing was finding a permanent home
Since the shed had been going, it had three homes.
Brian says they are unable to get a lease for the building they are currently in, despite having done some repairs to the building itself.
“Unfortunately it’s difficult to set up an organisation when you don’t know whether you ’ re going to stay there or not
“It’s the thing with MenzSheds. You can maintain buildings and look after buildings and at no cost generally to whomever you get the building from.”
Brian told councillors there are 13 members currently but they haven’t over-promoted the shed because shortly after moving to their current location, the shed was broken into and many tools were stolen
The community had supported them by bringing in various tools to replace those stolen.
“It’s the community support that comes in for us and we as a group give back to the community
“We do it because we enjoy doing it, it’s good for our health and hopefully it’s good for the community ”
The group is hopeful there is someone in Pahiatua who has a suitable building where they can set up a more permanent home and is keen to hear from anyone who can help
They can be contacted on email: brdent49@gmail com
Skills Workshop
Sorted Kāinga Ora helps whānau take control of their finances and navigate the path to home ownership. Our free 8-week programme offers practical tools, expert guidance, and kanohi-kikanohi workshops in Dannevirke.
The following election candidate information sessions are available for those interested in standing for election for Council or Community Boards. The Dannevirke session will also be livestreamed.
MenzShed Pahiatua president Brian Dent in the group’s current building.
MenzShed Pahiatua member David has been working on building a new cab on this old vehicle owned by Paul Gleeson.
From the Mayor
Tēnā koutou katoa Greetings to you all Te Ahu a Turanga Opens – A Milestone for Tararua and the Region
The opening of Te Ahu a Turanga – Manawatū–Tararua Highway marks a defining moment for Woodville, Tararua, and our wider region This transformative project, years in the making, has finally come to fruition coinciding meaningfully with Matariki, the Māori New Year Matariki is a time for reflection, renewal, and celebration These themes resonate deeply as we acknowledge the journey this community and region have taken from the sudden collapse and eventual closure of the Manawatū Gorge, through countless public meetings, detailed planning, community engagement, and the complex task of constructing a new route that would serve the people and places on both sides of the ranges
This highway has always been more than a road—it is a reconnection It links past present and future honouring the whenua and the people who live and work across the district From the beginning, Te Ahu a Turanga was designed not just to restore connectivity, but to create resilient infrastructure, support regional development, and enhance economic opportunity
As we now drive the new highway and experience the careful gradient carved through the Ruahine Ranges, we are reminded of the natural majesty that surrounds us, and of the immense potential this connectivity unlocks It enables not just safer and more reliable travel, but also underpins future growth for local businesses, tourism, and community wellbeing
This is a milestone not just in construction, but in regional identity and resilience
While roading has dominated recent headlines, it is not the only area where we are looking to the future Water service delivery is another area where long-term planning and collaboration are essential As part of our response to national reform, Tararua District Council is progressing work on a joint water service delivery model in partnership with Masterton, Carterton, and South Wairarapa District Councils
We have signed a commitment agreement to explore the formation of a Council-Controlled Organisation (CCO) that would deliver water services across the WairarapaTararua area. The next steps include entering commercial negotiations to agree on the structure, governance principles, terms and conditions of the proposed entity
Throughout this process we are working closely with the Department of Internal Affairs to ensure our plans align with new regulatory standards Our Water Service Delivery Plan will outline how we intend to deliver and finance water services, including asset and investment information All aspects of this plan must demonstrate long-term financial sustainability by 2028, and meet the strengthened expectations for environmental performance and service quality
Together, these two milestones the opening of Te Ahu a Turanga and the development of a future-fit water delivery model—reflect a council and a community committed to building a resilient, well-connected and sustainable future
These are exciting times for Tararua. The efforts of many over many years are bearing fruit, and together we step forward into a new chapter grounded in our values, guided by our people, and inspired by the opportunities ahead Noho ora mai - all the best
Tracey Collis - Mayor
MATARIKI
Council closures on Matariki 20 June 2025
Like many in our district, Council staff willl be celebrating Matariki with friends and whānau, here's what's open/closed:
Swimming Pools:
• Dannevirke: LATE OPENING 12pm - 5pm
• Eketāhuna/Pahiatua/Woodville CLOSED
Customer Services/isite/Libraries: CLOSED
Solid waste services:
• Transfer Stations/Pongaroa Landfill: CLOSED
• Kerbside Collections: Not applicable on Friday
Council confirms key decisions for 2025/26 Annual Plan
Tararua District Council has finished up deliberations on its 2025/26 Annual Plan Following community feedback and public hearings in May, elected members confirmed several important decisions that will shape local services, spending, and planning for the coming year
Following Council's deliberation on the specifics of the Annual Plan it is anticipated that the plan will be adopted on 25 June This includes the planned average rates increase of 7.71% for 2025/26 and the fees and charges for the upcoming financial year
A total of 45 submissions were received, with councillors taking the time to carefully consider each topic before confirming what will be included in the final plan. You can watch the discussions on Annual Plan on the Council YouTube Channel – see Tararua District council extraordinary meeting 4 June 2025:
https://www youtube.com/@LandOfRanges
Footpaths: Council Invests in Renewals Without Raising Rates
Council consulted on whether to top up funding for footpath maintenance and renewals by $150,000, due to reduced NZTA support. This would have resulted in an average rates increase of 0.40%. Of the 42 submissions received on this topic, the majority (33) were against the idea of adding additional funding
Hearing the community’s concerns during the consultation, Council has chosen to allocate $150,000 from existing depreciation reserves to carry out some renewal work on footpaths, focusing on safety and high-priority areas. This approach means essential maintenance work can still go ahead without adding pressure to this year’s rates increase.
While some submitters supported lifting the level of service, others wanted footpath costs to be kept low, especially for rural ratepayers who may not directly benefit. Using reserves provides a short-term solution while avoiding an increase to everyone’s rates bill.
Waisplash Carpark: Council Keeps Future Options Open
Council also asked the community for feedback on a proposal to help solve long-standing parking and safety issues at the Waisplash Community Aquatic Centre in Dannevirke. This would involve buying land at York Street to allow space for a future carpark extension.
Public support for the idea was strong 31 submissions supported extending the carpark, and 28 supported Council buying the land. 8 submitters opposed the proposal and 7 submitters felt more info was needed. Council agreed to start investigating the purchase of the York Street
The Norsewood Water Treatment Plant has recently undergone a significant upgrade to improve water quality and address ongoing concerns about discolouration and sediment in the water supply These concerns were raised by the community during engagement meetings, where residents also highlighted longstanding issues with the condition of the water network.
The upgrade ensures the treatment plant meets New Zealand’s Drinking Water Standards and provides safer, clearer water to Norsewood residents.
As part of the upgrade, Council installed new filters with ion exchange media designed specifically to remove the excess iron and manganese found in Norsewood’s bore water Improvements were also made to the plant’s pre-filtration system (which removes larger particles such as dirt and sediment), chlorine dosing equipment, and new UV disinfection.
An additional 30,000-litre treated water reservoir has also been added to increase capacity and improve the hydraulic efficiency of our storage Construction took place throughout 2024 and was completed in August.
The plant then entered a commissioning phase, running through to April 2025. This extended period allowed for fine-tuning of the new filters to ensure they consistently remove iron and manganese over time and perform to the highest standard.
During this process, it became clear that issues within the wider
Now that the new Te Ahu a Turanga: Manawatū Tararua Highway is open, the question of what happens to the maintenance of the detour roads is a timely one.
While the highway was being constructed, NZTA took over the maintenance of several roads that have been used as detour routes: Saddle Road, Pahiatua Track, Makomako Road, Pahiatua-Mangahao Road, Ballance Valley Gorge Road and Woodlands Road. Tararua Alliance and NZTA are working on a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for the handback of these local roads to Council Tararua Alliance will be taking over the maintenance of these roads in the near future, with a date to be confirmed as part of the MOU
Initial repairs will be made to the local roads to rectify wear and tear caused by the additional state highway traffic, funded by NZTA. Going forward, the Saddle Road will be maintained at the level appropriate to the amount of traffic of a low volume road, like it was before the Gorge closed.
property After due diligence and other preparatory work is done, Council will decide on the purchase of this property Additionally, if the land is purchased but the carpark doesn’t go ahead, Council can still sell the site (but if someone else buys it first, the opportunity for future development at that location will be permanently lost). If Council buys land for the carpark, it will use the General-Purpose Fund This fund can be used for various needs without affecting rates or adding costs for ratepayers.
Dannevirke Information Centre: Lessons Learned on Engagement
The Dannevirke Information Centre will relocate to the Council service centre on 30 June 2025, following a decision by the Incorporated Society that runs it to cease operations.
Following a clear message from ratepayers to save money and find efficiencies, one of the steps taken by Council was to stop the annual grant to the Incorporated Society A few submissions to the Annual Plan raised concern about the lack of clear engagement on this change.
A petition with over 400 signatures from residents and people outside the district was also received, showing a clear interest in this topic. No changes were made to the funding decision, but Council committed to improving how it engages with the community on future service changes
Uniform Annual General Charge (UAGC): No Change This Year
Council also reviewed the UAGC – the fixed portion of rates that every property pays equally It currently makes up 35% of general rates Some feedback questioned whether it’s fair for multi-use properties (like flats, home businesses, or Airbnbs) to only pay one UAGC charge.
Council noted that changes in this area are complex, involve legal considerations, and would need to be worked through as part of a full review of the rating system. That process will happen during the development of the next Long-Term Plan.
The UAGC will remain at 35% for the 2025/26 year
Thinking of Running for Council?
These decisions give a real glimpse into the kind of issues councillors work through weighing up public feedback, financial impacts, and the longterm needs of the district.
If you’re considering standing in the 2025 local elections this October, following the Annual Plan process is a great way to learn what the job is really about.
The final Annual Plan will be updated to reflect these decisions and adopted later in June.
Norsewood water network were contributing to water quality concerns. Due to the age and complexity of the network—along with a wide range of pipe sizes—a specialised flushing approach (No-Des – Neutral Output Discharge Elimination System) was required which provided a deeper clean than traditional flushing and does not waste any of the community’s water The flushing unit will need to return at regular intervals to carry on with further cleaning, this will help ensure that the water quality in the pipes better matches the high standard of water now being produced at the treatment plant.
Early results are promising Data from the past four months shows the upgraded plant is removing up to 85% of iron and manganese, and water clarity has improved significantly Turbidity has dropped from 1.05 NTU (measure of turbidity in water) - to between 0.2 and 0.5 NTU
We now have a better performing treatment plant, cleaner pipes and greater control over the plant for our operators.
Council would like to thank Norsewood residents for their patience while these works were being carried out. Now that the upgrade is complete, and water quality has improved Council would also like to recommend residents to take this opportunity to carry out their annual water tank inspection and clean if required (MoH Guidelines). Council will be in touch with the community before the next round of network flushing takes place. The total combined spend on this project is approximately $500k. This was budgeted for in the 2021-2031 Long Term Plan.
Traffic counters are in place across the detour roads at the locations used for the toll assessment consultation last year These will stay out for at least three months to assess the changes to traffic over time. These will help inform repair strategies, with the bulk of repairs planned to commence between October and December
In good news for cyclists, Council has had funding of $250,000 approved by NZTA from the Te Ahu a Turanga Path Fund for the first stage of the ‘Lindauer Trail’.
This funding will enable work to start on a cycle trail from the Woodville roundabout to the Old Gorge Cemetery later this year
The Lindauer Trail started as a Woodville community project that was later handed to Council to progress as part of the 2021-2031 Longterm Plan
The trail forms part of the Te Āpiti Manawatū Gorge Masterplan and was named in honour of the artist Gottfried Lindauer who was buried in 1926 in the Old Gorge Cemetery, one of the cemeteries located along the route. Stage one of this proposal seeks to get to this point. Further funding will be needed to connect the path to the Gorge itself
The overall objective of the Lindauer Trail is to form a shared walking/ cycling path from Woodville to Ferry Reserve, involving some on and off-road segments and two bridge crossings.
The funding that has been secured for the first stage seeks to establish a safe cycle-path across and/or around the narrow bridges. Addressing these key safety risks contributes to the broader shared pathway objective.
Happy Matariki from Tararua District Council
What happens to the detour routes with the new highway open
Norsewood Water Treatment Plant Upgrade
Big numbers at bull sales
There were some great results at recent bull sales with a top price at one sale reaching $46,000
Keith Higgins of Oregon Angus was pleased with their sale saying it was a fantastic result for the biggest lineup of bulls ever put up.
“No doubt the consistency of type and temperament from Lot 1 to Lot 42 was outstanding
“It was a beautiful day for a bull
Average price was $12,280
Transfers were Lot 9 to Kenhardt for $20,000, Lot 11 to Albert Hill for $40,000 and Lot 36 to Glengyle for $15,500
Otapawa Hereford sold 40 out of 40 lots with prices averaging $10,600.
Top price was $16,500 and transfers were Lot 8 to Ashby Herefords at $15,500 and Lot 16 to Rolling
Lot 2 was top
sale with a fantastic crowd of buyer and agent, staff members and onlookers who all made this day such a success ”
There were 41 lots sold at the Wairarapa stud with the top price fetching $40,000.
Heights Herefords at $15,000
KayJay Angus sold 42 of 42 with an average price of $16,321 and top price of $46,000
Transfers were Lot 2 to Turihaua at $46,000, Lot 4 to Oregon at $21,000 and Lot 9 to Ratanui at $44,000.
Lot 11 at Oregon Angus fetched a top price of $40,000.
There was plenty to choose from at Otapawa Hereford.
price at KayJay Angus at $46,000 with Lot 9 at $44,000.
Regional Knowledge, National Reach, and Two Chances to Win
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Buyer enquiry is lifting, listings are gaining traction, and momentum is building across a variety of land types
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VOLUNTEER AWARENESS WEEK V UNTEER AR
By Leanne Warr
Neil Greenwood sees volunteering as a way of giving back to the community
“It’s doing something for the community, it’s helping, because that’s what I like doing.”
Neil has been volunteering for the past eight years for the St John Health Shuttle in Pahiatua, seven of those as a team leader
“I actually go beyond what’s required,” he says “A lot of volunteers actually do that.”
The man with the big heart for helping people was one of around 75 volunteers who attended the Volunteer Recognition Event held by Volunteer Central in Palmerston North
The Health Shuttle, along with Dannevirke Gallery of History volunteer Nancy Wadsworth, received a certificate in recognition for the work in the community
Neil received the certificate on behalf of the shuttle from Tararua District mayor Tracey Collis
It was his first time going to the event and he wasn’t quite sure what to
15 – 21 JUNE 2025
People with big hearts -
expect
“There were a lot of organisations I didn’t know existed,” he says
He looks at the recognition as something for the team, rather than for his individual contribution.
“I’m just there to support them as their team leader and do everything I can to make things run smoothly for them ”
Neil says he could work up to 20 hours a week at times, although that also depends on where the shuttle is needed
While a lot of the trips are from Pahiatua to Dannevirke, Masterton or Palmerston North, there are times when someone needs to attend an appointment at Wellington Hospital, or even Lower Hutt
Neil says the drivers will take people if they can and as long as there is a vehicle as well as a driver available
“We always try and work something out if we get plenty of notice ”
The service is door-to-door with those requiring the shuttle being picked up at home, taken to where they
DANNEVIRKE LIONS Your local Lions Club “WE SERVE”
have to go and then taken back to their house.
All the drivers have first aid training, with the expenses paid for by Hato Hone St John
The shuttle also does dialysis runs three times a week, starting early in the morning and picking up patients to take them to their treatments
there earlier than late because a lot of the ones now, if you don’t turn up on time or early they won’t see you ”
The shuttle service in Pahiatua has two vehicles – one with a hoist, but one of the shuttles is now about eight years old and Neil is hoping the team will be able to get a new vehicle in the next year or two
However, Neil adds that the shuttle isn’t like a taxi service where they can pick up someone from an appointment when they want to be picked up, so people often have to work with the team
“We do try and make sure you are at your appointment, even if it’s early We’re happier having people get you
The shuttle, operating five days a week, can rack up around 6000km per month
There are also nine drivers and one assistant and since they’re all volunteers, there is a system they use in which the drivers can specify how many hours they can do or the days they want to work
THANKS to our team and all the great volunteers in our community
A volunteer is someone who contributes their skills and experience to give their time for free to benefit their community.
Without our volunteers we would be without a lot of support and services in our communities
Thank you to all the volunteers in our Pahiatua Community and especially to the team of the Pahiatua Information Centre.
Neil Greenwood with the St John Health Shuttle for Pahiatua.
The collection of dresses on display at the Gallery of History in Dannevirke
VOLUNTEER AWARENESS WEEK V UNTEER
volunteers are priceless
Neil says they are always looking for more drivers to help but every driver must pass a medical check as well as a police check
The shuttle also relies on donations, but he says they don’t ask for donations and leave it up to people if they want to give something
Nancy Wadsworth admits to being more than a little surprised when she received her certificate at the Volunteer Recognition Event.
She says she didn’t really know anything about it until she was told about the breakfast for volunteers
“I felt very honoured ”
She found the event interesting, particularly hearing about the various things people did as volunteers.
Nancy has been a volunteer at Dannevirke’s Museum, also known as the Gallery of History for about 15 years
She had previously been farm-sitting but liked the idea of working at the museum
Nancy has lived in the Tararua District all her life
She grew up in Ormondville and moved to Dannevirke after she got married
“It’s my home town,” she says, “ so I thought why not ”
Nancy has served as president on the committee and is currently vice president.
She believes it’s important to look after the many historical objects in the museum and knows some of the back stories to the items.
For instance, there is a mug which survived a fire in 1917 which destroyed many shops on Dannevirke’s High Street
But the highlight for Nancy is the people who come in looking to do some research on their family histories
“We get requests from all over New Zealand,” she says
She is often amazed by what family stories they are able to uncover researching through the collections of documents held at the museum.
She finds it a rewarding job
“I really enjoy helping people like that I get great satisfaction out of it ”
The museum currently has a display of dresses, most of which Nancy has made herself, including her own wedding dress
It’s just one of many displays Nancy has contributed to over the years
In the citation for Nancy’s nomination, it states that Nancy “is great with people and knows where all our histories are, the surnames and the settlers. We get a lot of people wanting information and she is tops”
Volunteer Central manager Kate Aplin says organisations within the Tararua District can sign up to be part of the umbrella organisation.
This helps those organisations looking for people to volunteer, so the staff at Volunteer Central can search through the roughly 2000 volunteers on their database and find someone appropriate
This year ’ s event was the 12th held by Volunteer Central, recognising the work of people behind the scenes.
Throughout New Zealand more than 230 million volunteer hours are contributed and around 80% of organisations are run by volunteers
As Nancy says: “Volunteers don’t get paid because they’re worthless, but because they’re priceless ”
Pahiatua Health Shuttle
Woodville Lions Club
Proud to be serving our community since 1966. for information contact Secretary Peter on: 027 442 7115
Raewyn Kingston, Tracey Collis and Neil Greenwood at the Volunteer Recognition Event for the Health Shuttle.
Tracey Collis with Nancy Wadsworth, who received recognition for her time with the Dannevirke Gallery of History.
Dannevirke South School
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By Dave Murdoch
Dannevirke South School well and truly celebrated its first 125 years Planning, under chairperson Caroline Gyde, had been in process for most of the year and it showed
An official welcome was held on Friday with a powhiri in the school hall. It was an extremely impressive experience as the entire school performed waiata to support the proceedings led by kaumatua Manahi Paewai
Principal Caroline Transom spoke welcoming the 270+ past-pupils to the school inviting them to look around, take part in the proceedings and chat to the students. Some visitors had come vast distances the furthest being David Campbell from Oklahoma
This was the first opportunity for the visitors to see South School in the modern era and they were most moved by the energy and enthusiasm of the students, several recalling that South in their day was the first to adopt kapa haka in Dannevirke.
Following the ceremony, the visitors were taken on a guided tour of the school, many impressed by the modern technology and additions a number reckoning the school seeming so much bigger – a reflection of their size now rather than when they were at school
The old school bell was rung to call the visitors to the planting of a commemorative Kauri tree and bury a time capsule so that in another 125 years there will be memories of 2025 to experience.
In the evening the focus moved to the Dannevirke A&P Showground where the Dannevirke Sports Club was jam-packed for a mix and mingle.
Saturday morning was scheduled for 9-holes of golf and an old-fashioned gala Hundreds came to refresh their memories of how they used to be
A High Tea in the Hub at noon brought the visitors back to school just in time for Decade photographs
Amazingly there were four pupils of the 1930-39 class group and the afternoon was a busy time for teachers playing the role of guides
At 2 30pm a bus took a big group on a tour of Dannevirke and environs, but the highlight of the weekend was the formal dinner
A birthday cake was cut by the oldest ex-pupil Ron Lowe (99) and the latest new student Leila Veitch-Nikora who at age 5 felt the event a bit overwhelming especially as Ron had a big knife! Caroline Transom spoke on the school’s history
“For 125 years this school has been a place where children were nurtured, supported and celebrated It is a place where we take our tiniest seeds- our
They even photographed all the teachers past and present.
tamariki – to help them grow into strong, confident, kind-hearted young people
”
She thanked ‘the village’: the iwi, the staff and in particular the children
“It was an absolute privilege to work with and for our students every single day ” Caroline says the 125 years was gen-
erations of learning
“Generations of community, generations of love Let us keep on nurturing, keep growing, keep believing in our young people
“Poipoia te kakano kia puawai – nurture the seed and it will blossom.”
Mavis Mullins, a former pupil says that her education set her up to pur-
sue her career in business as it has for many other students from the school.
She says anyone from the school should feel they can go into the world with confidence knowing they have the skills and knowledge to succeed
On Sunday the school bell called the visitors to a closing ceremony at the school hall, which included a wander
High tea was hosted for the visitors complete with fine china at The Hub.
down the track to the lower field for more stories.
One tale was reported that a time capsule had been buried during the 75th celebrations but the school has no knowledge of it If anyone can recall the details – especially its location, please contact the school on 06 374 8915.
Volunteer teacher Duane Edwards supervises the planting of a memorial Kauri tree by head students Wikitoria Hape and Ronan Driscole
Local Classifieds
DAVIES, Hazel Dawn.
Croquet club end of season
Deaths
GREEN, Judith Alice
Peacefully at Rahiri Rest Home, Dannevirke on Monday 9th June 2025, aged 93 years
Dearly loved wife of the late Buster, much loved Mum and Mother-in-law of Gary and the late Josie, Mark and Tracey, Brent and Paul (both deceased)
Loved Nana and Great Nana
Survived by her special sister Janet, who along with extended family will miss Hazel dearly
As per Hazel’s wishes a private family service has been held
In Memoriam
In loving memory
DIAMOND, Bernard Anthony
19.4.1955 - 27.10.2024
in Mackay, Australia
Loved son of Joseph & Drina Loved brother of Marie, Rosalie, Michael, Paul and Eleanor
Very special Uncle & friend of many Rest in Peace. Bernard’s ashes were interred at Mangatainoka on 19 April 2025
We share with great sadness the passing of Judith on 2nd June 2025
She fought an incredibly hard battle with her health with stoic determination
Beloved partner of Robert Ellingham
Thank you to the amazing staff at Palmerston North Hospital for their care.
A celebration of Judith’s life will be held at Kowhai Chapel, 51 Denmark Street, Dannevirke, on Tuesday 24th June at 2 00pm which will include a jolly good chin wag
Firewood for Sale
FIREWOOD, mac, pine & mixed woods, 2 cubes $250, WINZ approved Phone Ian 027 507 3776
Public Notices
Help ‘n’ Hand & Bush SuperGrans AGMs
Wednesday 2nd July
5.00 pm 42 Main Street Pahiatua
Everyone welcome to attend
ISSUE
OF AN OFF-LICENCE
Section 101, Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012
Seddies Trading Limited, 12 Seaview Road, RD10, Herbertville, Dannevirke 4790, has made an application to the District Licensing Committee at Dannevirke for the issue of an OffLicence, in respect of the premises situated at 12 Seaview Road, H e r b e r t v i l l e , known as Herbertville Inn
TARARUA ST JOHN HEALTH SHUTTLE
Doorstep to doorstep service, for Eketahuna, Woodville, Pahiatua Phone 0800 589 630 Health
Public Notices
DANNEVIRKE & DISTRICTS A &
to be held on Thursday 17th July 2025 at the A & P Lounge, High Street, Dannevirke, at 6pm
The general nature of the business conducted under the licence is Ta v e r n / B o t t l e 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 9pm.
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
A number of places have become available for new patients to join the enrolment waiting list
Please phone Andrea Short for more information about Dr Short’s practice and policies Health
Public Notices
PAHIATUA OUTDOOR BOWLING CLUB (INC)
Annual General Meeting
Saturday 28th June 2025 at 11am – Lunch at 12.30 pm $20pp – All Welcome
RSVP to Di Capes 027 626 0181
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
Phil Lamason
Heritage Centre Trust (Inc)
5.30 pm, Thursday, 3 July 2025 Dannevirke Hearing Association Hall, 19 McPhee Street, Dannevirke
WHAITIRI FARM
TE AHU WHENUA TRUST AGM
WHERE: 78024 SH2 DANNEVIRKE (Bottom house hall) WHEN: SUNDAY 29th JUNE 2025 TIME: 10am
AGENDA:
Update Terms and Conditions of Trust Deed
Discuss Pay-Out
Re Election of Trustees
MAKIRIKIRI
MARAE Annual General Meeting
Sunday 29 June 2025
10am @ Makirikiri Marae or via ZOOM
Rangatira Croquet Club Life Member Joe Sowry was celebrating his 90th birthday, so the club decided to combine the celebration with their end of season trophy presentation. Trophies went to Marion Gore for most-improved junior, Ian Power as men’s and club champion and Julie Walker as Ladies Champion
Dannevirke junior netball in full swing
RSVP to: cjpaewai@xtra.co.nz your attendance and to pre-register to ZOOM Agenda: Welcome
Minutes AGM 2024
Chairperson’s Report Financial Statements
Presentation
General Business
Lunch
Secretary: C. J Paewai 0274 723 924
By Dave Murdoch
Dannevirke Junior Netball got underway a week before the rest of the winter sports and consequently the players are well into their season.
As with previous years the teams are based on age groups the school-based year 1-2s playing a 4-on4 competition with the emphasis on learning the skills, the year 3-4s playing a 5-on-5 school based competition preparing them for B-Grade which has Year 4-5s each representing their schools
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 issue of a licence may be made in relation to a matter other than a matter specified in Section 105 of the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012. This is the first publication of this notice
Seniors however have teams made up from all schools to even out the competition and to give players experience at playing with players from other schools
Surprisingly these teams do not have names – going by the uniforms they play in There has been a terrific response from the players, entries numbering over 200 with nearly half in B grade causing it to split into A & B divisions
There is an exciting season ahead for the players with the opportunity to be in representative teams and travel away. While conditions were wet and cold on the day the Bush Telegraph was there, this did not deter the A&B grade players the juniors being cancelled Fortunately, the all-weather courts made the game safer and it did not rain during the matches. Dave Murdoch is a freelance writer.
Dannevirke B-Grade Ruahine v Huia Range -Sometimes small can be an asset in netball.
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