King Country News | April 11, 2024

King Country

Ewe beauties

It started with a packed out Les Munro Centre watching international shearing – and Wales celebrating a test win over New Zealand –continued through the weekend with world class shearing, a prime ministerial visit and the running of the sheep through Te Kūiti’s town centre. The national shearing champs in town even garnered some national publicity after some of the sheep finished their run down Rora Street by popping into a liquor store before going home. We look back on a great weekend. More stories page 2,3, and 28.

Clockwise from left. Jack Fagan, pictured in action over the weekend; Rebecca and David Buick entertained a large crowd at the Les Munro Centre on Friday night; artiste Adrienne Carthew dressed up for the day and wore her stilts; Shears sponsor Sam Laubscher, left, with, Chris Luxon and David Fagan watch the sheep run for the trucks; the special uniform of the Te Kūiti and District Highland Pipeband on the day featured gumboots, red hair wigs, and sporrans tied with bailer twine.

Surprise guest at muster

Prime Minister Chris Luxon proved a popular surprise guest at the first post Covid running of the sheep on Saturday.

Dai Henwood and Paul Ego were there, and so was the pipe band in their muster rig of red wigs and gumboots. Rora Street was lined with stalls with the bouncy castle and climbing wall in King Street East – and the crowds came.

Chris Luxon spent so much time meeting and greeting people, taking selfies and chatting, that organisers had to send transport to move the Prime Minister from near the railway station to the start nearer the northern end by PGG Wrightsons.

“Fantastic industry, awesome people, and it’s just great to be out here celebrating,” he said after the sheep run, where thousands of sheep ran down the main street, between the crowds.

“I just wanted to come and support the industry really and support what is a fantastic day and event and to say to all our farmers who are doing it tough - in sheep farming in particularwe love you, we support you, we value you. You are really critical to the future of New Zealand and I think it is really important as a new government. We’ve got Todd Mlay here as agriculture minister as well to come and celebrate what is an amazing community and an amazing industry.”

King Country Taranaki MP Barbara Kuriger was also part of the government presence, hosted by mayor John Robertson and district councillors.

Luxon disagreed that Te Kūiti’s near 50 per cent Māori population opposed the government’s removal of the Maōri Health Authority and its stance on the Treaty of Waitangi.

“What we are doing is making sure we improve outcomes for all New Zealander and Maōri included, and sadly over the previous administration outcomes for Maōri went backwards, whether it’s over health or education, crime or economical, we want to make sure Maōri and non-Maōri do better in our country and that’s what we are very focussed on as a new government.

The Treaty of Waitangi was New Zealand’s foundational document, and there was no change to that

despite what people might say.

“We are determined to make sure we uphold the Treaty of Waitangi, uphold commitments and obligations under all treaty settlements past and future,” he said.

“Yes we disbanded the Maōri Health Authority because it hasn’t delivered good outcomes for Maōri which is what my government is focussed on.

“It just built massive amounts of bureaucracy and by its own admission it wasn’t going to improve outcomes for another five years. I would sooner do what we have done before Christmas.

We’ve taken $50 million we have actually partnered with iwi led health organisations to say we need to lift immunisation rates for under two year olds in particular in the Maōri community from 73 per cent up to where we are trying to target closer to 90-95 per cent.

“We are actually spending the money with those iwi led organisations on the ground in those communities we know the folk really well, and can make the case to get tier kids immunised.

“So, we just think there is a better way of actually delivering the outcomes. What we are focussed on is outcomes, we make no apology for that.”

He said the government will move money from out of the Wellington bureaucracy and invest it with the community organisations that were really interested in the communities they supported.

The irony of the shop sign did not escape the sheep and the watcher.

One of the TV crews seen in town on Saturday

The mobile climbing wall in King Street West was popular.

Dozens of mobile homes and caravans parked up at The Domain for the weekend.

It’s all about the economy - PM

“We are rebuilding the economy to lower the cost of living, so we can get our economy growing again, so that people can actually have a better quality of life.”

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon said in Te Kūiti on Saturday his government’s “obsession” with growing the overall economy is to make it easier for the workers of this town who “get up at 7am or earlier” and work incredibly hard to get ahead.

Speaking to King Country News following the running of the sheep, the Prime Minister confirmed the government would be indexing tax brackets.

“We have to wait for our budget policy at the end of May, and the budget at the end of May,” he said. “We are determined to give tax relief to lower middle income working New Zealanders, they are doing it incredibly tough.”

He said many people in Te Kūiti were heading off to a second job, doing other things in the evenings, and despite how hard they were working, they could not get ahead.

“That’s why the number one thing that we’re focussed on is rebuilding the economy, because what we have to do is make sure that we can actually lower inflation, so we lower interest rates, so we actually lower the cost of living for people,” he said.

“We actually get the economy growing which has currently been shrinking and actually keep people in employment.

“So that’s why we’re obsessed on inflation, because the price of rent, the price of fuel, mortgage rates for home owners - if you’re lucky enough to own a home, have gone through the roof under the previous administration because there hasn’t been good economic management.

“We are rebuilding the economy to lower the cost of living, so we can get our economy growing again, so that people can actually have a better quality of life.”

On housing, he said there were major challenges.

“We have a country the same size as Japan and the UK, and yet we have fewer people and more expensive houses,” he said. “What has happened in New Zealand is

that we have a supply challenge.

“People want to own their own home, if you can’t own a home, you go off and rent a home; if you can’t rent then you get a state or social house, if you can’t get a state or social house you end up in emergency housing.

“And all four aspects of housing are very much interlinked together, and they’re all about a lack of supply that exists in the market. We want to say to councils, we want you to rezone 30 years of housing growth tomorrow, we want to incentivise our councils to invest in developing those areas, getting the roads and pipes and water into those places.

“We want to make sure we get a good supply of rental properties available to people as well, and that’s about making sure that for landlords, it’s actually worth doing. And that’s why you’ve seen us reverse interest deductibility, reverse the bright line test and some other things that we’ll be doing to make sure that’s attractive.”

He said the more state houses also had to be built, with the government partnering with community housing providers. Details were awaiting the result of a current review of Kainga Ora.

“It’s a very poorly performing organisation, it’s had major changes around governance and procurement. Bill English has just given us a report after a couple of months, a deep dive into what’s been happening there. And once we’re very clear about what changes need to be made; we want that organisation very focussed on building houses.”

He said there were also opportunities with people like the Salvation Army, Habitat for Humanity, different iwi property trusts that exist up and down the country – which he said had very good pastoral care and built great communities as well.

About 66 per cent of Te Kūiti residents live in rental accommodation, according to Waitomo District Council figures.

A top weekend

The New Zealand Shearing Championships organisers are celebrating a highly successful weekend which saw new champions and the revived running of the sheep which attracted thousands of people to watch about 700 sheep run down Rora Street.

Over a weekend blessed with glorious autumn weather, highlights included a special award to shearing legend Sir David Fagan who was surprised with a life membership of the New Zealand Shearing Championship Commitee by brothers John and Ken.

The award took Sir David by surprise and he scolded his brothers on stage for keeping the secret.

The championship also atrracted national publicily when some of the sheep, having completed their run down Rora Street, decided to pop into Liquorland for a drink before heading back to the farm.

The running of the sheep under way in Te Kūiti for the first time in four years, following a change of heart by the Waitomo District Council about the event.

Sam Laubscher, Chris Luxon, David Fagan, local MP Barbara Kuriger and Agriculture Minister Todd McClay.

All together now?

By Roy Pilott

The head of the Waikato Chamber of Commerce wants to spark a debate on the 35-year-old local government boundaries in the province.

The last local government reform introduced a regional tier, male-dominated borough councils disappeared and Waikato was populated with a city council and a host of district councils.

It brought neighbours like Te Awamutu and Cambridge together, but left Ōtorohanga and Te Kuiti separate.

In a memo in the latest chamber newsletter

Don Good poses the question: has the time for the amalgamation of the Waikato’s territorial authorities arrived?

“We have a cost of living crisis, people will struggle to meet the forecast rise in rates – and businesses are frustrated by the artificial lines we have pencilled across our region,” he said.

“Most Waikato councils are close to their debt ceiling and experiencing a downgrade in their

viability. They are also facing really big costs to ensure their core services and infrastructure do not break.”

Debt ceilings are an issue discussed on page 13 (Cambridge) 9 (Te Awamutu) in Peter Nicholl’s regular column.

Greater Waikato is governed by its regional council, Hamilton City Council and 10 district councils – Franklin, Hauraki, ThamesCoromandel, Waikato, Waipā, Ōtorohanga, Waitomo, MatamataPiako, South Waikato and Taupō. Good brings that number to 13 by including the Rotorua district because part of that council’s area takes in land to the west of the Mamaku range which feeds into the Waikato River.

It’s no secret that some Waikato and King Country councils are already looking at the logistics of amalgamating.

Waitomo mayor John Robertson in a column in the King Country News last month said of his council and neighbour Ōtorohanga “we are substantially the King

Country, Maniapoto… so why are we governed by two councils?”

He said amalgamating was considered 20 years ago – “it is surely time to consider this option once again”.

Time has also caught up with some boundaries –part of Hamilton is in the Waipā District. When a governmentcommissioned Future for Local Government review panel presented a restructure plan in the middle of last year it was tipped to be a general election issue. It wasn’t and has barely rated a media mention since.

But as councils roll out long term plans with huge rate rises over the next three years, the debates are likely to occur.

Heads up, we’re flying by

Good says the chamber is hardly the biggest fan of centralisation, but adds there needs to be some rationalisation across the Waikato to get costs down.

Saying “bollocks” as one old Waikato leader did has not worked. The rate rises are proof of that. It is time for a change.”

He said voters were frustrated by a duplication of bureaucracy, the differences in rules, the lack of efficiency and speed in delivering services and the number of “dumb initiatives that annoy voters, such as the raised roads at intersections”.

“It is time look at how amalgamation can be implemented.”

Police arrest gang member

Armed police closed off roads in Te Kuiti soon after noon last Friday before arresting a wanted man.

The operation to find the man described by police as a gang member resulted in six marked and unmarked police cars speeding into town from the Ōtorohanga end of town.

The cars were used to block off potential escape routes for the 26-year-old Te Kūiti man who was in a house on Alexander St.

The operation involved the Armed Offenders Squad (AOS) members, The Criminal Investigation Branch (CIB) and Public Safety Team (PST).

Police vehicles blocked off both Alexander and Taupiri Streets while officers approached and removed the man from the house where he had been staying.

He appeared in the Hamilton District Court later that day and was remanded in custody.

Police told the King Country News the wanted man would face changes including aggravated burglary, robbery, demanding with menaces, participating in an organised criminal group, unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition, threatening to kill, and possession of an offensive weapon.

Over the coming weeks we’ll be under taking an aerial sur vey of TLC-owned lines and equipment using helicopters.

The footage will help identify areas needing maintenance, repairs or even replacement of structures and equipment — keeping your lights on. It will also help us to keep our community and workers safe.

The survey is weather dependent. The aircraft will rapidly fly over TLC-owned lines and infrastructure — only taking visual footage of equipment, not of private property, people or livestock.

More information

thelinescompany.co.nz

0800 367 546

TE KŪITI

WAIMAHORA

MANGAKINO

WHAKAMARU

ĀTIAMURI

MAROKOPA

WAIKAWAU PIOPIO

MANGAOTAKI

MAIROA

ARIA MOKAUITI

MOKAU

MANAITI/BENNEYDALE

WAIMIHA

KINLOCH

TIHOI

ŌTOROHANGA

WHAREPAPA

SOUTH AROHENA

TAHAROA

NORTHERN TLC NETWORK AREA

Don Good

John Robertson

Police armed with Glock pistols and Bushmaster ri es blocked o Alexander and Taupiri Streets early on Friday afternoon.

WEAVING THE FUTURE, TOGETHER KOTAHITANGA

HAVE YOUR SAY!

Council is committed to a transparent and collaborative process in shaping the future of our district. Your feedback will help us to create plans that nurture our people, our places and our partnerships.

From 5 April to 6 May, we will be asking our communities for feedback on what we have proposed. You can have your say online, drop in to one of our sites to get a submission form or attend one of our whānau/ family friendly open days below.

SAT 13 APRIL | Ōtorohanga Village Green, Maniapoto Street, Ōtorohanga | 11am-2pm

THU 18 APRIL | Arohena Hall, 18 Pukewhau Road, Wharepapa South | 10.30am-12.30pm

SAT 20 APRIL | Kāwhia Hall, 141 Jervois St, Kāwhia | 11am-2pm

YOU CAN FIND FURTHER DETAILS ABOUT THE PLANS WE ARE CURRENTLY WORKING ON BELOW KĀWHIA/ AOTEA/ŌPĀRAU

To learn more about our plans, head to engage.otodc.govt.nz

Gorge work runs to plan

By Paul Charman

Roading crews working in isolated Tāngarākau Gorge, on SH43 - The Forgotten World Highway - plan to be sealing there until winter interrupts progress in about mid-May.

Work is progressing well in the rugged and isolated section of the highway, with the result that almost 6km of roadway through the gorge has been sealed, a NZ Transport Agency spokesperson said.

Māori once hauled giant trees out of the heavily forested area and a few having been found felled, superficially carved and made ready for extraction, by a crew which apparently never returned to do so.

Early last century a pocket watch was found on a bush pathway in the

Tāngarakau, and the legend persists that it may have been dropped a member of Von Tempsky’s Forest Rangers.

Since October last year crews working in the isolated area have completed drainage and pavement works and sealed almost 4km of the road, compared to only 2km during the summer of 2021/2022.

They have completed a large retaining wall in the gorge and started work on a second one.

The project will ultimately see the unsealed 12km Tāngarākau Gorge section of the highway chip-sealed.

Meanwhile, in Taumarunui crews have completed the first stage of asphalt repairs at SH4. From April 14 till about May 1 they plan to return weather permitting to complete works between SH43 and Maata

Heads up, we’re flying by

Over the coming weeks we’ll be undertaking an aerial survey of TLC-owned lines and equipment using drones.

The footage will help identify areas needing maintenance, repairs or even replacement of structures and equipment —  keeping your lights on. It will also help us to keep our community and workers safe.

Water call: pay as you go

A Waitomo District Council consultation document has mapped out plans to install water meters throughout the district by 2028.

It argues a user-pays system is an effective way to deliver quality drinking water and users of large volumes of water would pay more.

If water metering was progressed, it would begin where the demand is highest, the council stated in the document, part of its long term plan consultation.

“For our district the Piopio scheme has demand far higher than the recommended level. There would be a phasing in of billing where residents would receive ‘mock invoices’ for 12 months so they can adjust their water use and address any leaks prior to being charged,” the document said.

The council’s preferred option is to install water meters on all properties by year four of the plan - 2028.

St.

During this period a north-bound lane on SH4 will be closed between River Rd and Turaki St and weather permitting, crews will work there 24-hours-a-day, seven-days-a-week.

Meanwhile, southbound traffic would continue to use SH4, and northbound traffic would be detoured via Turaki Street, Miriama St and River Rd. Pedestrian and property access would be maintained.

“This work may be completed prior to May 1, however several days of wet weather contingency have been allowed for given the time of year. Should the weather not be suitable, work will be postponed to the next available day,” the spokesperson said.

It is argued the introduction of meters would reduce use and treatment costs - and the risk of the council breaching its water take consent.

It’s estimated it would cost about $2.7 million to introduce metres.

Water supply activities are now funded by a mix of metered water charges and targeted fixed rates.

Based on the current funding policy, the initiative will add $1.46 a week to a connected Te Kuiti property and $2.02 in Piopio, Mokau and Maniaiti/Benneydale.

The survey is weather dependent. The aircraft will rapidly fly over TLC-owned lines and infrastructure — only taking video footage of equipment, not of private property, people or livestock.

In changing to a user pays system the council intends dropping the ‘harmonisation’ of water rates – all ratepayers paying the same water rate – which was expected to lessen the rating impact for Te Kūiti properties already significantly impacted by three waters cost and investment increases.

Work is well underway on the roadway through the Tāngarākau Gorge.

Local youth employment service doubles down at new location

With the Ōtorohanga Employment Hub now based at 75 Maniapoto Street, the Mayors Taskforce for Jobs Community Employment Programme is opening the door to more young people in need of support to get into employment.

The ŌEH is also about to celebrate supporting 300 people into employment in the three years since opening, over 50 apprenticeships gained for young people and more than 20 youth attending an Outward Bound programme.

The focus of the programme is on empowering young individuals aged 16 to 24, as well as anyone facing job market challenges in the community. Leading this initiative are Elle Freestone, Veronica van der Heyden and Tayla Smith, dedicated to extending the programme’s benefits throughout the district. The partnership between MTFJ and the Ministry of Social Development continues to create great outcomes at the grass roots level. Working within the community, MTFJ’s success relies on councils having the power and funding to address the challenges in their community with tailored solutions.

Project Navigator Elle Freestone wants the programme to be as accessible as possible, “we operate out of Maniapoto Street and have a satellite site each Tuesday at the Kāwhia Angling and Boat Club.

“Our team provides preemployment skills, create CV’s and delivering career coaching to support our clients to find a direction towards an employment pathway. It’s a process driven by the clients themselves – we are just here to help them remove any barriersreal or imagined - which once removed will enable them to successfully find work.

“The connections we have with employers around the region means we can link up the right young people with the right business. It is a winwin for business and young people. Once that connection is made we support both the employer and employee for the next six months with pastoral care.

from 5pm-7pm where young people can come and complete their bookwork towards their apprenticeship and this is supported by Industry Training Organisations. Laptops and pizzas are provided!

Ōtorohanga Mayor and MTFJ chair Max Baxter said “the programme highlights the power of localism, promoting community-led solutions for youth employment, education, and training.

“As unemployment is in the spotlight around the country, this is a practical solution to get young people into work that benefits local business and the local community.”

The team hold apprenticeship evenings on a Wednesday evening at The Business Collective

We would like to acknowledge everyone that have engaged in our services to find employment and employers who have entrusted us with their recruitment. Sincerely, we thank everyone across the Ōtorohanga District for your incredible support that continually contributes to the success of the Ōtorohanga Employment Hub.

“We are here to support everyone in the district who are looking for work. Our doors are open to all. Come in and see us or call 0800OTOJOBS for an appointment to meet the team.”

ŌEH team members from L-R: Tayla Smith, Elle Freestone and Veronica van der Heyden.

The life of Bobby Swann

By Sigrid Christiansen

Te Kuiti’s Bob Swann, who turned 101 last Thursday, still hears the voice of his grandmother wishing him goodnight.

One day in December 1923, his father returned from work to find him abandoned by his mother and in his cot in a dark house, with an empty bottle. He wrapped him in a blanket and put him in the sidecar of his motorbike and rode to his own mother’s home.

‘Here you are. Can you look after this fella for a while?’

Emma-Jael Swann, and her husband Dan, took over.

“She was my grandmother but she was my mother. The best, the bloody best,” Bob said. “That was 99 years ago but I can still feel that sort of thing. When it was getting dark, she’d say ‘nigh nigh, Bobby’.”

“I was always Bobby until I was 10. She’d nurse me by this huge open fire, five foot wide and five foot deep. There was a corrugated iron chimney and wood

to burn.” Half the house had board floors, half dirt.

His birth mother never contacted him - he thinks she left because of a man. His father had two other families, resulting in many half-siblings for Bob.

His European grandparents hand milked 20 or so cows on 100 acres at Te Kōpua, near Ōtorohanga. They lived near the Hughes, Searancke and Tamaki families and the community was close.

Bob started at the native school in Te Kōpua, with five or six children – being the only European child was a “nonissue”. Their “motherly” white teacher lived on the other side of the river.

“She rowed that dinghy over the Waipā River every day and back home at night.

After Te Kōpua school closed he briefly attended school in Ōtorohanga but the teenager enjoyed the freedom of farm life and milked cows instead.

His work contributed towards the milk cheque on the 20th of every month, which his grandparents depended on.

A century on the buses

By Sigrid Christiansen

Piopio celebrated 100 years of school buses last week with the community and students from three schools, in a ceremony at the college.

Speaking via daughter Jenny Brodie, Piopio’s Jean Toms recalled her own bus travels around the time of World War Two, and how the horn “looked like a little balloon.” Her bus route was timed around two neighbouring boys who helped their parents milk their cows morning and night.

Director of Education for the Waikato Marcus Freke talked about life “as a Bus Kid, back in the day.”

Children “smushed up” several to a seat (or stood), in a bus with a holey floor and a chain-smoking driver.

He valued the idea of helping today’s kids, who in many cases had quite physically comfortable lives, to understand more about how their great-grandparents had lived.

Piopio College principal Rakesh Govind said that it was “valuable” for the students to link their own daily school travel experiences with those of their great grandparents.

Model T bus ‘Arapae,’ a painstaking replica on an original chassis, was the day’s star.

It arrived with 14 Piopio Primary

students, all with family connections to figures from Piopio school-bus history, such as Mr Taitoko, an early mechanic.

“It’s really a special day for us. We’re excited, and the kids are excited,” Piopio Primary principal Sue Coyle said Arapae’s driver was John Carter, chairman of the Piopio College trust fund committee.

“This bus was one of our projects, initiated by former principal Brian Tegg,” he said.

Driving Arapae was “nerve wracking” with poor visibility and “back to front controls”.

“We have lost all these skills,” he said.

Going against “a modern drivers’ instincts” was braking by pulling a lever, not pressing a pedal.

Later, Piopio’s Evelyn Smyth shared a memory originating with extended family member Ada Andrews.

In 1924, Ada was a town child, already attending Piopio school the day the first buses arrived.

She had been “waiting for these school buses to come in. She said, ‘We were there, looking at all these funny looking kids, hopping off the school bus.’

“They’d never seen them before. It would have been quite an event.”

• Read a full version of this story at kingcountrynews.co.nz

At 16 he was taught by an uncle to shear. He shore all around the King Country - the money was good: albeit “you had to work for it.”

As well as managing his uncle’s farms for 20 years, he worked at Tregoweth’s mill in Te Kūiti for over 40 years, crosscutting, driving a forklift, and carting timber in his own logging trucks.

He saved his money.

“If I want something, and I haven’t got the money, I’ll go to work for another week. I’ve never had a hire purchase in my life. I’ve never borrowed ten cents. That’s how I work.

He married Rita in his thirties. She was the mother of Leona and the couple had

one other daughter, Glenda.

Today at Hillview Home his only complaint about getting older is insomnia.

I’ve got a lovely bed, warm, but I just can’t sleep. It’s from doing nothing, you know, no exercise.”

After starting to go blind at 95, he had a near-miss while driving and threw his keys away. He appreciates what vision he has.

His watering hole, the Quota Club in Te Kūiti, gave him a life membership when he turned 100.

“When I snuff it… I hope everybody’s there.”

Bob’s secret to long life is working hard.

“It was all I knew.”

Bob with daughters Leona (left) and Glenda. Photo Sigrid Christiansen.

A group of 14 Piopio Primary students were selected to ride the bus.

Quake rules need common sense

ByPaul Charman

The Ruapehu District has listed 39 earthquake prone buildings (EPBs) on the Ministry of Business Innovation and Employment website – 19 at Raetihi, 17 at Taumarunui and three at Ohakune.

As an area of lower seismic activity owners of earthquake prone buildings have been given 35 years, in most cases from about 2017, to upgrade them to at least 34 per cent of the New Zealand Building Standard.

The national system for managing earthquake-prone

buildings in New Zealand came into effect in July 2017. This system affects owners of earthquake-prone buildings, territorial authorities (local councils), engineers, other building professionals and building users.

But Ruapehu Mayor Weston Kirton has concerns for the future of central business districts.

“Where buildings are in daily use owners will be forced to make the decision to make their building compliant or pull them down,” he said.

“This is a nationwide issue and the government may need to address it through legislation as we get closer to the EPB deadline. It is not a simplistic, one size fits all situation.

He also said there were cases where buildings may have sat empty and deteriorating for some time and in those circumstances the EPB legislation may have a potential benefit in forcing action by the building owner and help with township revitalisation.

Taumarunui historian Ron Cooke said the Government’s decision following the Christchurch quakes to force building owners to strengthen allegedly earthquake-prone

structures up to what had turned out to be an unachievable standard was a typical knee-jerk reaction.

“Those city bureaucrats who weren’t spending their own personal money, have no cost appreciation of what they were forcing on hardworking business owners,” he said.

“These decision makers don’t live in the real world. They think a “one hat fits all” policy is the answer and while everyone knows that high-rise buildings in cities and two-storey shops in rural New Zealand towns can’t be identically dealt with by the same rules.

“It wouldn’t be a problem if money just dropped out of the sky but in reality it’s the taxpayer that really foots the bill - you and I.

“Having lived in district for over three decades without once seeing any object shaken from a shelf during an earthquake I cannot see why anyone should shell out for the cost of upgrading or even the cost of demolition for the reasons being given.

Many of the district’s doublestoried buildings had stood the test of time for well over 100 years – but he agreed that those on fault lines like Wellington

and Christchurch needed stricter safety requirements.

“But heritage buildings in parts of small-town rural New Zealand, which are well away from these areas are a different matter.

“The regulations in this case need to be administered with more common sense, not overreaction otherwise main streets will become overrun with empty shops.

“My advice is to do nothing until the issues are talked through and with solid engineering proof that buildings are not as safe as claimed by the so-called desk bound experts sitting in Wellington.”

What’s going on?

The issue with sludge

The new ‘Local Water Done Well’ policy has pushed councils to reevaluate mustdo three waters projects.

For its long term plan the Waitomo District Council must include a 10-year budget and programme of works to continue to deliver three waters services for ratepayers.

The district’s water and wastewater treatment plants were upgraded in recent years so the focus now is on the wider network of aging pipes and storage systems. The council will target renewals by running leak detection and infiltration checks.

Another historical issue to be addressed is the build-up of an estimated 50,000 tonnes of sludge – sewerage solids -in wastewater treatment ponds.

The issue is linked to the future of the Te Kūiti landfill, which is where dried sludge is mixed with the town’s rubbish and buried.

The council’s problem is the current cell at the landfill is nearly full. There is a budget for developing the next cell, but with the changes in waste volumes and costs, risk and safety concerns the council needs to decide if this is the right next step.

The landfill has a regional council consent until 2054. In 2021 it considered future options, and found at the time with higher waste volumes, it was more cost effective to continue to operate it.

Sludge could add 1000 cubic metres a year to the total waste volume, which would require the development of the next cell. That has been budgeted, as has installation of gas capture.

Continuing the development at Waitomo District Landfill will require $3.05 million in year one and $651,000 in year two to develop cell three, then $4.3 million over Years 8 and 9 to develop cell four.

King Country

Century old buildings – like this one in Taumarunui’s Manuate St – are listed as earthquake prone. Weston Kirton

Ron Cooke

Winter Warmth

Ticking

off

the pre winter heating checklist

Night temperatures are dropping, and the winter checklist should be a priority depending on what your heating source is.

For most homes that feature heat pumps, making sure your pumps are serviced is essential for maintaining energy efficiency, and longevity of these heating and cooling systems.

One critical aspect is the inspection and cleaning the filters and coils. Clogged filters restrict airflow, reducing efficiency and increasing energy consumption. Dirty coils can also impede heat transfer, affecting the pump’s ability to heat or cool effectively. Cleaning or replacing filters and coils as needed helps maintain peak performance.

Additionally, checking refrigerant levels is crucial during servicing, a job which should be done by your local specialist

technician. Wrong refrigerant levels can result in decreased efficiency and potential damage to the compressor, and leaks that can harm both the environment and the system’s efficiency.

Inspecting electrical connections, belts, and motors is another vital part of heat pump servicing. Loose connections or worn-out components can lead to system malfunctions or breakdowns. Lubricating moving parts and tightening electrical connections can prevent such issues.

Finally, verifying the overall system performance and functionality, including the thermostat and controls, ensures the heat pump operates as intended. Professional servicing by qualified

technicians is recommended at least annually to maintain the efficiency and reliability of heat pump systems, helping homeowners save on energy costs and avoid unexpected repairs.

For those with woodburners, it goes without saying that your chimneys need cleaning annually. Most hardware stores carry DIY chimney cleaning kits if you want to try it yourself, but there are also professionals who do a thorough job of making sure your property is safe from any buildup in the chimney, stove and flue areas.

But it’s not just cleaning away the soot buildup.

You should check your firebox bricks every year for cracking or breaking. Once this happens, your firebox safety rating drops considerably – and also becomes a hazard. These bricks line the interior of the firebox, providing insulation and protection from the intense heat generated by the fire. Over time, exposure to extreme temperatures and moisture can cause these bricks to crack, crumble, or become displaced.

Regular inspection allows you to identify any damage early on, preventing potential safety hazards such as fires that can break through the box, or carbon monoxide leaks. Cracked or deteriorating bricks can also hinder the efficiency of your fireplace, reducing its heating capacity and increasing energy costs.

Autumn is the ideal time to perform this inspection, before the fireplace sees the more frequent use during colder months. Before lighting the first fire of

the season, take the time to thoroughly examine the firebox bricks for any signs of wear or damage. If you notice any issues, promptly address them by repairing or replacing the affected bricks.

Places like Mitre 10, Bunnings, Placemakers or common firebox manufacturing companies stock replacement bricks which are easy to install.

If gas is your preferred method of heating, it also needs to be checked this time of year.

Servicing gas heaters requires a careful balance of safety, efficiency, and technical know-how and it needs doing by a qualified gasfitter.

Cleaning the heater’s components, such as the burner, pilot assembly, and vents, is vital to prevent blockages and ensure efficient combustion. Checking for gas leaks is a non-negotiable step, requiring a keen nose for detecting the distinctive odor of gas or using specialized equipment for detection.

Furthermore, inspecting the ignition system, thermocouple, and gas valves helps identify potential issues that could compromise the heater’s functionality or safety. Adjusting the flame height and ensuring proper ventilation are additional measures to optimize performance and minimize risks like carbon monoxide buildup.

Regular servicing not only extends the lifespan of gas heaters but also provides peace of mind, knowing they’re operating efficiently and safely, warming homes without unnecessary risks.

If you have tried all these suggestions and still have moisture/condensation issues, consider a de-

Vintage train booked out

By Paul Charman

A group of railway enthusiasts turned out to Te Kūiti Railway Station to welcome the Glenbrook Vintage Railway Society’s Spiral Explorer last Thursday morning.

The booked-out excursion train, which boasted refurbished 1940s carriages hauled by a classic diesel locomotive, was on its way from Hamilton to Ohakune and back. The journey included stops to take on passengers at both Ōtorohanga and Te Kūiti. Running about quarter of an hour late, the train stopped at Te Kūiti station for about 10 minutes to board five passengers. Several more townsfolk, who were looking on, said they had tried but failed to secure a ticket for the ride to Ohakune and back via the famous Raurimu Spiral. One woman said, because of this, she had booked to join a similar Spiral excursion to be run by Glenbrook later in the year.

Colin Dempsey said he and his wife Margaret were keen to ride on the Spiral Explorer because they considered it to be a great day out.

“Having lived in the area for more than 30 years, I know all the places the train will be passing through today,” Colin said.

Aroha MacDonald said she had been visiting her friend Poia Bryan when she heard about the excursion and decided on the spot that she wanted to go also.

One of the guards on the train told the King Country News that it was a shame organisers of Te Kūiti’s Great New Zealand Muster and NZ Shears Running of the Sheep had not included Glenbrook Vintage Railway Society in their planning.

“We would have loved to have organised a trip to bring

people to these events,” he said.

It is understood a Paekakariki railway excursion group, Steam Incorporated, will run a diesel train over the Raurimu Spiral from the other direction on April 24. This trip will leave from Palmerston North, making stops at Waiouru and Ohakune before heading back.

Dennis takes farmer crown

Piarere’s Dennis Main was crowned WaikatoBay of Plenty FMG Young Farmer of the Year on Saturday, following two days of competition at the Kerepehi Domain.

The 30-year-old will take on six other regional finalists in July’s final – when a successor to 2023 Young Farmer of the Year, Pirongia’s Emma Poole, will be crowned in Hamilton.

Main has not competed in the event before though has been an active member of Piarere Young Farmers.

“I didn’t know what to expect, so to come away with the win was a real surprise,” he said.

Main grew up on the family dairy farm, and after leaving school studied engineering. He spent four years back on the family farm and has now turned his hand to building.

Your news,wherever you are.

POLICE DESK

Ōtorohanga

Police were called to two family harm incidents and one mental health case.

April 3: A man took items on successive days from Countdown without paying. He left in a vehicle described as a silver 2001 Honda CRV.

April 3: The 32-year-old male driver of a black Holden Commodore stopped by police at 9.18pm on SH3, Hangatiki, will appear in court on April 22 charged with drink driving.

April 3-4: A burglary was reported overnight at a rural address on Whibley Rd. A galvanised motorbike trailer was stolen from a cowshed.

April 4: At 8.10 pm police received a complaint that a black 2009 Audi was being repeatedly driven into a roadside ditch and back out again. The driver was stopped by police on the outskirts of Ōtorohanga. He failed an evidential alcohol breath test and was summonsed to appear in the Te Kūiti District Court on April 22.

April 4-5: Two tool shed caps were stolen from a 1996 Nissan Atlas truck on Maniapoto St. The steering column also damaged.

April 5: A male drove off in a white 2013 Toyota Highlander which had been left insecure outside Mitre 10 in Balance St.

April 7: A Honda CFR motorcycle was stolen from outside a cowshed on Whibley Rd between 3:30pm and 5:15pm, while the victims were milking.

April 6: At 8:57am police received a report that a cabin had been stolen from an address on Rakaunui Rd, Hauturu. It was found after police executed a search warrant in Te Awamutu. A 48-year-old male is expected to multiple charges.

April 7: A Piopio resident reported her credit card had been used to purchase goods and services in Fiji worth $2790.20.

Kawhia Piopio Te Kūiti

April 3-4: A Samsung A34 handset was stolen from the Te Kūiti High School office building.

From left: Colin and Margaret Dempsey (seated) Aroha MacDonald and Poia Bryan await the Spiral Explorer at Te Kūiti Railway Station.

Dennis Main is on his way to the final.

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PROPERTY YOUR REAL ESTATE GUIDE TO THE KING COUNTRY

Fabulous living Spotlight

This stunning lifestyle property located at 990 Te Kawa Rd, 15 minutes south of Te Awamutu, offers the perfect blend of modern living and rural charm.

With four bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a spacious open plan kitchen and dining area, this home is perfect for families or those who love to entertain.

The property boasts a generous land area of 5598 sqm, providing plenty of space for outdoor activities and enjoying the beautiful

rural views. The property also features a 3 bay shed, garden sheds, aviary, large pond and a private fully fenced yard with fruit trees.

With excellent interior condition, modern kitchen, califont, gas heating and a smart vent system, this home offers comfort and convenience.

The property also includes a sleep out, separate laundry, and a self-contained granny flat, providing additional living space.

Benneydale 20 Ellis Road

Perfect in Benneydale

LOCATION | 990 Te Kawa Rd, Te Awamutu

HOUSE I 5598m2

HOUSE | 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 3 toilets, 3 garages

PRICE | $1.1m

LICENSED AGENT | Harcourts, Ōtorohanga

LICENSED SALESPERSON | Antonia Jongmans 027 656 1506

WEBSITE | blueribbonharcourts.co.nz

WEB ID | OH22439

This charming two bedroom, two bathroom house located at 20 Ellis Road Benneydale is the perfect place to call home. With an open plan kitchen and dining area, an additional kitchenette and a deck/patio for outdoor entertaining, this property has everything you need for comfortable living. The property also features a sleep out, workshop, separate laundry, and a garden shed for extra storage space. The interior is in excellent condition with modern finishes and the exterior is well-maintained with a fully fenced yard for privacy.

The layout of the property would make it a great bach/accommodation as it is situated on one of the 22 Great Rides of the New Zealand Cycle Trial, the Timber Trail.

Located in a quiet area with beautiful views, this property is close to schools and amenities, making it ideal for families or those looking for a peaceful retreat. Don't miss out on this opportunity to own a piece of paradisecontact Antonia for a viewing today!

For Sale By Negotiation View By Appointment

blueribbonharcourts.co.nz/property/OH22447

Antonia Jongmans

M 027 656 1506

E antonia.jongmans@harcourts.co.nz

Team Kerry & Karen

Ōtorohanga

Your New Lifestyle Begins Here

Quality lifestyles don’t get much better than this attractive 288 sqm home. A well-designed kitchen and scullery, two living areas with fabulous outdoor entertaining space, four bedrooms (the main with His & Hers walk-robes) and beautifully tiled bathrooms. A high stud and over-height doors all add to the overall aesthetics. Three car garaging, 4056 sqm and well laid out mature grounds.

For Sale Deadline closes Wed 17 April, 1pm (USP) View blueribbonharcourts.co.nz/OH22438

Situated on the highway to the famous Waitomo Caves and numerous other tourism attractions, here’s an opportunity to own a piece of rural NZ, in a location where property such as this rarely comes on the market. Comprising of a near-new home with a fully lined timber interior and all the modern conveniences including a walk-in pantry with barn-door, walk-through wardrobe and ensuite, double glazing and a wood burner. Open plan living with the main bedroom at one end and two bedrooms plus family bathroom and laundry at the opposite end. Large picture windows frame the view over the 2.245 hectares of pasture with approx. 400m of meandering river boundary with a horseshoe bend feature. The opportunities to cash in on the lucrative tourism industry are huge, but this property will be equally appealing for someone wanting a well located lifestyle property with no restrictive building covenants, midway between Te Kuiti and Otorohanga. Call Kerry or Karen today.

Kerry Harty 027 294 6215

kjharty@harcourts.co.nz

Karen Lennox 027 559 4468

Ōtorohanga 15 Haerehuka Street Ōtorohanga 12 Ballance Street Ōtorohanga 192 Mangawhero Road

karen.lennox@harcourts.co.nz

Find us on Facebook Team Kerry & Karen

Renovated and redecorated throughout, with double glazing, near new roof and offering a spacious dining area with separate lounge. Wet-room plus a second separate toilet off the laundry. Insulated both underfloor and in the ceiling, with a wood-burner to warm the house in the winter months, and a ducted heat-pump for summer cooling. This three bedroom home has the benefit of an ensuite, open plan lounge and dining with both open fire and a heat pump for convenience. The pool room allows you options for a second lounge, home office, hobby room or even a fourth bedroom. A third toilet located in the laundry will be handy plus double garage + workshop area. Ideal for those wanting a flat site in a good location.

For Sale $559,000

View blueribbonharcourts.co.nz/OH22436

For Sale $675,000

View blueribbonharcourts.co.nz/OH22397

Four bedroom

style 45 Hill Street boasts four rooms used as bedrooms and the master has it's own ensuite. Spa bath fitted in the family bathroom and combined with the laundry - very handy in a busy family home. The kitchen/dining is open plan leading onto the lounge, with a wood-burner to keep the area warm and dry for winter months. Native floors throughout the home in need of the finishing touch of varnish to make them hardy and durable. An expansive under cover shelter between the garage and entrance way to the house - you will never get stuck in the rain bringing in the groceries again. The property is within walking distance to all amenities and schools, call today to book your private viewing.

55 St Leger Road, Te Awamutu

This three bedroom house is not just a property; it's a chance for a fresh start. Phone John Pinny or Tharaen. For Sale By Negotiation

For Sale $520,000 REDUCED 70 Gradara Avenue, Ōtorohanga

rwotorohanga.co.nz/OTO30148

A two year old, four bedroom home set on approx one hectare of land, offering privacy, serenity and peace. A short drive to Otorohanga and Waitomo Caves. Phone Lorraine.

rwotorohanga.co.nz/OTO30164

Rosetown Realty Ltd Licensed REAA2008

23-25 Maniapoto Street, Ōtorohanga

Lorraine. For Sale By Negotiation View strictly by appointment only

rwotorohanga.co.nz/OTO30185

Fruit Tree pruning

cherries are all best pruned in Summer after they finish fruiting and apples and pears in Winter.

fine day, even better if the forecast is for a few days of fine weather and always always use clean sharp tools, even clean your tools after pruning each tree to prevent the spread of disease. Vinegar or Methylated sprits will do the trick just wipe your tools with a rag dipped in either.

Diseases are more likely to enter your plants on damp days and love it when the pruning cuts are not straight clean cuts, they love it when you damage the trees by not using clean sharp tools.

You can also buy pruning paste to seal the cuts to add an extra layer of protection against disease entering.

As with all pruning starts with the 3 D’s, dead, diseased and damaged. Once you have removed the 3 D’s, have a look for branches that are crossing over each other and take one of the branches out.

Then there is the wood that produces

the fruit, plums, cherries, & apricots fruit on two-year-old wood, peaches & nectarines on one year old wood, almonds fruit on two-threes year old wood.

The ones that should be pruned in winter are apples & pears, do the 3 D’s then remove any older fruiting spurs that are becoming overcrowded with new ones. Like with all trees, if it is getting too high reduce the whole tree by a quarter to a third.

Figs should be pruned every year in early spring or any time of year as they are very forgiving otherwise, they will take over! They are a great fruit tree to experiment espalier on so if you would like to grow one and you are short on space you should give it a go.

This is one that got a hard prune a few years ago and came back perfectly ok so don’t be afraid!

This week’s column proudly sponsored by

With Winter just around the corner a lot of people are thinking about pruning, this can be confusing as different fruits get pruned at different times of the year, so the rule of thumb is stone fruit plums, apricots, peaches, nectarines, almonds,

Summer pruning of your stone fruit reduces the risk of silverleaf as there are no spores around in Summer to enter the fresh pruning cuts.

But if you didn’t prune in Summer, you can still tidy up your trees now, but with any pruning that you do it should be on a

Wanted - Carer Support

Fixed term until February 2025

Te Kuiti based carer wanted for two children (age 10 and 12) daily after school and fulltime in the holidays.

Duties would include:

• Pick up from school and care until 5.30pm in our home.

• Being active with the children and tend to their needs.

• One child requires a bit of extra support, to be discussed.

Required:

• Previous experience and references.

• Honest, reliable, and fun.

• Current, clean driver’s license.

• Police check.

• Drug test.

Competitive remuneration based on experience

Send a CV and supporting references to thejonescrew108@gmail.com

applications may be inspected during the ordinary office hours at the office of the District Licensing Committee at Waitomo District Council, Queen Street, Te Kuiti. Any person who is entitled to and wishes to object to the issue of the licences 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 Waitomo District Council, P. O. Box 404, Te Kuiti 3941. No objection to the renewal of a licence may be made in relation to a matter other than a matter specitied in Section 131 of the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012 This is the second publication of this notice. The first publication was made on April 4, 2014. This notice was filed by the applicant through the offices of Alcohol Licensing Limited, P. O. Box 36 600, Northcote, Auckland 0748, telephone 021 483 133 or e-mail greame@llc.co.nz or www.llc.co.nz Pokuru School is looking for Learning Support Assistants (Teacher Aide) with patience, resilience, flexibility, and a genuine interest and desire to work as part of a team supporting students with special education needs.

ANZAC Day Services

Thursday 25 April 2024

Te Kūiti Pā Dawn Service

Members of the Public and Service Organisations are invited to attend the ANZAC Memorial Dawn Service at the Te Kūiti Pā, Awakino Road, Te Kūiti. The itinerary for the Service will be as follows:

5.45am Attendees will assemble at the Awakino Road

Entranceway and wait to be called onto the Pā

Attendees will then move to the Memorial Monument on the Pā where the Ceremony will take place.

6am ANZAC Memorial Service

A light breakfast will be provided to attendees following the Service.

Te Kūiti Civic Memorial Service

Members of the Public and Service Organisations are invited to attend the ANZAC Memorial Service which will be held at the Les Munro Centre, King Street East, Te Kūiti. The programme is:

7am Parade to assemble at The Lines Company, corner of King Street East and Taupiri Streets, Te Kūiti

7.15am March from The Lines Company to the Les Munro

Teacher Aide (2 Positions)

• The ability to support students with all aspects of personal independence and learning.

• Strengths in working with students who have complex learning needs and require behavioural support.

• Ability to work as part of a team.

• Training will be provided

• Hours: between 10 - 15 hours per week, Mon - Fri, school term time only (approx. 40 weeks/year) There is room for flexibility.

• Conditions and remuneration are according to the Support Staff in Schools Collective.

Start date: ASAP Term 2 (as soon as police checks are completed) This is a fixed-term contract please feel free to seek further information.

To apply, please send a cover letter, CV, and names of 2 referees to Vicki Robinson principal@pokuru.school.nz

Āria Primary School 0.5 permanent + 0.4

7.30am ANZAC Service at the Les Munro Centre followed by Wreath Laying at the Cenotaph

Attendees not participating in the Parade are requested to be seated in the Les Munro Centre by 7.20am. Service organisations, Guiding and club members, and members of the public are invited to join the Parade. Please assemble behind the RSA contingent. Te Kūiti ANZAC Day Service enquiries to Waitomo District Council Phone 0800 932 4357.

Piopio Civic Memorial Service

All local Service Organisations and members of the public are invited to join the Returned Servicemen of the Piopio District for the ANZAC Day Memorial Service. The programme is:

10.50am Assemble at St John Building, Moa Street, Piopio

11am March from St John Building to Cenotaph at Piopio War Memorial Hall followed by the ANZAC Service and Wreath Laying

Tea and Coffee will be available to attendees following the Service. All are welcome to participate in both the Parade and Service. Members of the public are also invited to bring wreaths to lay at the Cenotaph as part of the proceedings.

enthusiastic teacher who will inspire and motivate students to learn. Strengths in working collaboratively, commitment to your own professional growth and strong classroom management skills are required. Our school has a passionate and supportive staff culture. We look forward to hearing from you.

Strengths in working collaboratively, commitment to your own professional growth and strong classroom management skills are required.

Piopio ANZAC Day Service enquiries to Jenny Brodie - 07 877 8033

Awakino Civic Memorial Service

Please send CV plus covering letter and names of two referees

Our school has a passionate and supportive staff culture. We look forward to hearing from you.

Please send CV plus covering letter and names of two referees to The Principal, Āria Primary School, 17 Barclay Rd, RD1, Āria 3979 or e-mail to office@aria.school.nz.

The organisers of this year’s Awakino ANZAC Day Service would like to invite all local Service Organisations and members of the public to join the Returned Servicemen of Awakino and the surrounding District for the ANZAC Day Memorial Service.

11am ANZAC Service at the Awakino Memorial Hall, Briscoe Street, Awakino

A light luncheon will be available to attendees following the Service Awakino ANZAC Day Service enquiries to Dorothy Lowry - 06 752 9123 Centre

Situations Vacant

DEIRESA RAUA RATIMA, 12 Ruru Street, Piopio has made application to the District Licensing Committee at Te Kuiti for the renewal of an On-licence and renewal of an Off-licence in respect of premises situated at 12 Ruru Street, Piopio and known as FAT OWL MOTEL BAR AND EATERY. The general nature of the business to be conducted under the licences is that of bar and eatery. The days on which and the hours during which alcohol is to be sold under the On-licence are Monday to Sunday 9am to midnight the following day and under the Off-licence Monday to Sunday 9am to midnight. The applications may be inspected during the ordinary office hours at the office of the District Licensing Committee at Waitomo District Council, Queen Street, Te Kuiti. Any person who is entitled to and wishes to object to the issue of the licences 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 Waitomo District Council, P. O. Box 404, Te Kuiti 3941. No objection to the renewal of a licence may be made in relation to a matter other than a matter specitied in Section 131 of the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012 This is the first publication of this notice. This notice was filed by the applicant through the offices of Alcohol Licensing Limited, P. O. Box 36 600, Northcote, Auckland 0748, telephone 021 483 133 or e-mail greame@llc.co.nz or www.llc.co.nz

CLOSURE OF ROADS TO VEHICULAR TRAFFIC ANZAC DAY COMMEMORATIONS ŌTOROHANGA AND KĀWHIA

In accordance with the Tenth Schedule of the Local Government Act 1974, notice is hereby given that the Ōtorohanga District Council, for the purpose of holding the Anzac Day Commemorations, proposes to close the following roads to ordinary vehicular traffic for the period indicated hereunder:

THURSDAY, APRIL 25, 2024

ŌTOROHANGA:

STATE HIGHWAY 3 / MANIAPOTO ST –from the northern entrance of Huiputea Dr to its intersection with Te Kanawa St.

KAKAMUTU RD - from Maniapoto St to its intersection with Turongo St. GRADARA AVE - from Kakamutu Rd to its intersection with Summit Dr. RANFURLY ST - east end from its intersection with Maniapoto St to end.

COWLEY LANE – entire length.

WAHANUI CRES – entire length.

WHITTINGTON LANE – entire length.

Period of closures: 5.45am to 6.45am and 9.45am to 10.45am.

Detour will be by way of Huiputea Dr.

KĀWHIA:

POUEWE ST – from Kāwhia Motors to Kāwhia Hotel. Includes intersection with Jervois St.

Period of Closure: 12.45pm to 1.45pm.

Persons will be allowed through in the event of an emergency.

It will be an offence under the above regulations for any person, otherwise than under authority of an authorised permit, to use the roads for ordinary vehicular traffic during the period of closure.

Email your classified ads to reception@goodlocal.nz

Don’t forget to include your billing details, name, address & daytime contact phone number

•

•

•

mangapapab2@gmail.com

CoM nominations due by 5pm Wednesday , May 1, 2024

Proxy forms (via mail or email) due by 5pm Friday, May 3, 2024 or handed to the chair or Returning Officer on the day.

A light lunch will be provided.

Please feel free to bring a plate.

Waitomo Branch of Federated Farmers

AGM

Date: Thursday, April 18, 2024

Time: 6pm light refreshments 6.30pm AGM

Venue: Waitomo Club Inc

corner King St and Taupiri St, Te Kūiti

Guest Speaker: Deputy Mayor Allan Goddard

Please contact Chris or Hilary for further details and RSVPs: Chris Irons - 07 876 7473 or cirons@wnation.net.nz Hilary Walker- 0274360560 or hilarygubb@hotmail.com

MACPHERSON, John

Robert: Peacefully at Waikato Hospital on Saturday, April 6 2024, surrounded by his loving family. Aged 76 years. Dearly loved dad to Brendan, Adelle and Kelly. Brother to Malcolm and Elizabeth, Heather, Norman and Nan. Dear friend to Lynn. Cherished uncle to Hamish, Jayne, Kate, Ellen, Sharon, Sheree, Andrew, Natalie and their families. A celebration of John’s life will be held at St David’s Presbyterian Church, Ōtorohanga on Friday, April 12 at 1pm, followed by a private cremation. John was proud to recently achieve the milestone goal of 60 years’ service in the Automotive industry with over 40 years of this time working in his own business. John worked right up to the time of his passing. All communications to Macpherson Family c/PO Box 241, Te Kūiti 3941. VJ Williams & Sons, Funeral Directors Association of NZ

MACPHERSON, John

Robert: Dearly loved dad to Brendan, Adelle and Kelly. John also survived by his former wife Marilyn. A good friend to Rod & Claire treasured son in-law to Margaret & (the late) Phil former Brother in-law to Christine, Eric, Phillip & Karen and their families.

NEWTON,

ŌTOROHANGA BAPTIST CHURCH

MEETING NOTICE

Pursuant to Section 46 of the Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act 1987 notice is hereby given that a meeting of Nga Pae Whenua the Joint Management Body for the Taumatawiiwii, Ngati Koroki Kahukura ki Hinuera, Waikaukau and Te Reti Reserves will be held on Monday 22 April 2024 at 10am in the Kaipaki Meeting Room, Waipa District Council, 23 Wilson Street, Cambridge.

A copy of the agenda will be available two days before the meeting at the Cambridge Public Library.

TE KŪITI Korowai Aroha Trust and Mihi Hetet would like to say a big thank you to all the bakers, preservers and everyone who supported us in our fundraiser, also to wireless dynamics (for the shop front), Te Kūiti bakery and all our team buddies. What a great day. Proceeds going towards presents and baking giveaways on the Te Kūiti Christmas parade day. Thanks

Shane: Sunrise, August 9,1972 Sunset, March 18, 2024 aged 51. The unexpected and sudden passing of Shane Newton in Karratha, Australia, has left us deeply saddened. Son of the late Gloria and Richard Newton and brother to Sharon, Tracey, the late Tania, Richard and Wayne. Shane was the loving father of Te Aomarama, Hikairo, and Reremoana. He will be sadly missed and remembered for his unconditional love for those he held closest. A service will be held on April 15, 2024 in Perth, Australia, followed by a private cremation. A small service/remembrance ceremony will be held in Piopio at Leah and Richard Newton’s house at 2:00 pm to coincide with the service in Australia which will be displayed via video link. An invitation to close friends of Shane and extended family is open if they would like to attend.

Ngā mihi

The Newton Whanau

UNKOVICH

James

Bryan: 12.04.1960 –18.02.2024

A service to remember Jim will be held at 1pm on April 13 at the Distinction Hotel, Whangarei. All are welcome to attend.

He really is...

SPORT

The miracle man

By Doug Laing

Wairarapa shearer David Buick won the New Zealand Shears Open shearing final in Te Kuiti, less than three years after a farm accident left him fighting for his life and wondering if he would ever walk again.

David was crushed in a collapsing ditch during drainage excavation on his farm near Pongaroa in October 2021. With complex pelvic fractures and other injuries he was flown in a critical condition to Palmerston North by rescue helicopter and spent months recuperating, first in hospital and later in a retirement home in Dannevirke to be closer to wife Rebecca, son Michael and daughter Gemma. He learned to walk again and

12 months ago in Te Kuiti shore in a father-and-son contest with Michael and surprised himself by qualifying for the 2023 Open quarterfinals.

Father and son won the 2024 whanau event, which attracted 25 family pairings, but the big hint of a miracle in the making came with Buick placing third in the Golden Shears Open final in Masterton on March 2 – shearing the 20 sheep in 16min 16.064sec, 21 seconds quicker than eventual winner and Southland shearer Leon Samuel and more than a sheep ahead of all four other finalists.

On Saturday night in Te Kūiti he was a minute quicker, beaten to the finish only by Northland shearer Toa Henderson, who shore one of the fastest 20-sheep finals in New Zealand history in finishing in

14min 59.75sec.

The 45-year-old Buick ultimately had a winning margin of just 0.504 points in his first win since the North Island Shearer of the Year final in Te Kūiti on April 9, 2021, an 11th win in 2020-2021 making him the No 1-ranked Open shearer for that season.

He had also been a multiple New Zealand representative and national lambs shearing titles winner, was in August last year acclaimed a Master Shearer by Shearing Sports New Zealand, and has now won 33 finals since first appearing in the Open class in 2002.

Henderson was runner-up for a second year in a row, a night after 2023-2024 win No 13, in the North Island Shearer of the Year final, and being named No 1-ranked

Open shearer for the season, while third was defending champion Samuels.

After the victory, Buick confirmed he will take his place in the New Zealand team in the UK this year with Te Kuiti shearer Jack Fagan, who won his place with victory in the New Zealand Shears Circuit final, an event won 17 times between 1985 and 2010 by father and shearing legend Sir David Fagan, currently president of the New Zealand Shearing Championships Society and chairman of national body Shearing Sports New Zealand. David Buick has gone from retirement home to national champion.

Valiant United falls to the Eels

By Norris Woodbine

Northern King Country Rugby followers who headed out to Benneydale on Saturday were treated to an open exciting game of rugby featuring nine tries in total and some rugged defensive plays that will long rest in the memory.

The visiting Taumarunui Eels side,

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playing in plain white tops while waiting for their new kit, managed a narrow victory 31 – 24 but with Bush United securing two valuable bonus points both teams would have been happy with their first up efforts.

The home side burst out of the blocks in spectacular fashion after kicking off and controlling the first ruck before sending the ball through the backline hands to left winger Tame Hepi who scooted down the touchline, out pacing several defenders before diving in for a try in the corner. Ahead 5 – 0 Bush United continued to throw the ball around however gradually the bigger Eels pack found their feet and controlled possession for longer periods. Some ill-disciplined play from the home side prompted referee Tony Prestige to find fault around the breakdowns and following a succession of penalties Taumarunui finally levelled the scores scoring out wide

following a 5 metre scrum.

Not to be outdone Bush struck back immediately when right winger Tata Te Aho was clear, presented with an overlap before outpacing the defence and Lewis Taitoko landed an excellent sideline conversion to post a 12 – 5 scoreline.

With half time almost upon them the Taumarunui pack exerted an irresistible drive to the line and scored handy to the posts with the conversion locking the teams together 12 – 12 at the break.

Taumarunui began the second half in a dominant mood and raced to a 31 – 12 lead within 15 minutes scoring three further tries as their pack appeared to take complete control.

As the half wore on however, they appeared to tire and for the final 20 minutes Bush United gained some ascendancy. Time was against them however and although Te Aho and Taitoko

narrowed the gap, Prestige signalled full time much to the disappointment of the large crowd.

Bush United manager Pei Whatarangi remained upbeat after the game, “we had a full squad today and with eight boys making their debut hopefully we will continue to improve” he said.

Other club games Piopio upset last season’s finalists Tongariro United 36 – 14 and Taupō Marist held off a determined Taumarunui Districts 35 – 33 in a cliff hanger.

The big shock was the controversial default of glamour North King Country club Waitete against the powerful defending champions Taupo Sports when by all accounts they could not make the necessary numbers.

It will certainly give the local rugby fraternity some talking points over the coming weeks.