King Country News | April 25, 2024

Petition for Chateau

By Paul Charman

Kirton intends to petition

Parliament this week in an effort to fast-track the reopening of the Chateau Tongariro.

The 95-year-old luxury hotel closed in February last year when owners Kah New Zealand walked away from its lease blaming

seismic issues.

The Department of Conservation, which owns the building and the land it stands upon, has had little to say on any prospects of re-opening, telling the King Country News “as the end of lease negotiations are still ongoing, we cannot comment on details related to those negotiations”.

The Chateau does require earthquake strengthening – the cost has not been determined.

Mayor Kirton said it was unacceptable that Doc could not provide more details on the future of a building which previously supplied 30 per cent of Ruapehu’s bed nights.

“Not only are we losing money from the Chateau being shut up like this, there’s the major risk of deterioration, he said, noting that just over $2

million per year had been given as the estimated cost of to maintain the building over 12 months.

“I expect people from all round the country will get behind our petition to fast track the reopening of the Chateau,” Kirton said. “This is an iconic building where generations of

New Zealanders spent ski holidays and honeymoons and family occasions. It’s not only people in our district, I suspect many thousands of Kiwis just hate seeing this iconic hotel shut up and deteriorating.” His petition will go to Conservation Minister, Tama Potaka

and emphasise the need to streamline complex concessions needed by any new operator who sought to lease the building from DOC.

“My understanding is that it is the primarily the lack of certainty generated from the complex regulations associated with

operating in the National Park which is discouraging investors.

“Obviously if they’re putting up, say $50 to $100 million, they will need certainty as to how long they can operate there to make their investment worthwhile.”

• Further stories, p9.

Workshops to open at Waitomo

Waitomo district councillors have decided to open their workshops to the public – but they will have to be there in person to hear what’s discussed.

Chief Ombudsman Peter Boshier called for councils to open up their workshops in a report he released last October. His report followed concerns that councils were making decisions in workshops - rather than at open public meeting as they are required to do.

The King Country News’ sister papers in Waipā have complained to the Ombudsman

about how Waipā district councillors come to their decisions, arguing that the way they vote has been determined ahead of public meetings.

Waitomo will hold workshops in public –but they will not be livestreamed or recorded. Opening up workshops is a move Cr Janette Osborne banks.

“And I think it’s a great step towards standardising processes between us and Ōtorohanga, who already have their workshops open to the public,” she said. Councillors voted to adopt a principle of

openness by default for all workshops and briefings, forums, including a commitment to record reasons on a case by case basis should a workshop be closed to the public.

A schedule of workshops (similar to the Council Meetings Schedule) will be included on the council’s website.

One of the suggestions in the ombudsman’s report was for councils have annual surveys of constituents on the services provided, Mayor John Robertson said.

“We have never surveyed our constituents to establish the type of information we should

give,” he said. “I think that we have just got to be careful on some of the recommendations not to impose additional costs, additional administration here, when it won’t serve any great purpose.”

In his report Boshier said he did not uncover evidence that “actual and effective decisions’ were made in workshops.

“But I saw some workshop practices that are counter to the principles of openness and could contribute to a public perception that workshops are not being used in the right way.”

Ruapehu Mayor Weston

Weston Kirton

The Chateau – closed for over a year.

Sunset service for Anzac

Anzac Day celebrations in the King Country will finish off with the sunset service looking over the Aotea Harbour.

A field of more than 70 remembrance crosses, all with an Aotea connection marks the site.

“I couldn’t imagine a more peaceful setting for an Anzac Day sunset service than the Aotea Harbour,” Kāwhia Community Board chair Geoff Good said.

The Kāwhia civic parade will assemble at the Kawhia Community Centre, Jervois Street, at 1pm today (Thursday).

The Ōtorohanga ANZAC Day Dawn Service will be held at 6am at the Ōtorohanga Memorial Park, corner of

Kakamutu Road and SH3, near the Mobil Petrol Station.

Parades will form up near the Ōtorohanga Butchers at 5.45am and march to Memorial Park. The Ōtorohanga Civic Service will start at 10am at Memorial Park.

A section of SH3 in the Ōtorohanga township will be closed 5.45am to 6.45am and again from 9.30am to 11am.

Attendees for the Te Kūiti Pā Dawn Service will assemble at the Awakino Road Entranceway at 5.45am and wait to be called on. They will move to the Memorial Monument on the Pā for a 6am ceremony.

The Te Kūiti Civic Service will be held at the Les Munro Centre, King Street East, Te Kūiti.

The parade assembles at The Lines Company, corner for King Street East and Taupiri Streets, at 7am.

The service at the Les Munro Centre will be followed by wreath laying at the Cenotaph.

Piopio Civic Memorial Service parade assembles at the St John building Moa Street Piopio at 10.50am.

The march from St John Building to Cenotaph at Piopio War Memorial Hall is at 11am followed by a service and wreath laying.

Members of the public are also invited to

bring wreaths to lay at the Cenotaph as part of the proceedings. The Awakino service begins in the Memorial Hall, Briscoe Street, Awakino starts at 11am.

The favourites are coming back

Reporter Sigrid Christiansen has presented a convincing argument that it’s time to bring back an old favourite.

Sigrid reckons the regular thumbs up and thumbs down has been a miss for readers, so she asked if it could be brought back.

We’ve given her the thumbs up. But, as the advert goes, wait – there’s more.

Sigrid is going two steps further – and is inviting readers share their stories on three themes.

“Pop into the office, email or send us an old-fashioned letter: whatever you prefer,” she says. “We are introducing two new ideas as well as the Thumbs Up Thumbs Down - The Two of Us, and Unforgettable Pets.

For Thumbs Up Thumbs Down, send her your community shout-outs and your growlings. Just put your name to what you send in.

The Two of Us is the place to send your love stories, the many wonderful ways that couples in this community have met.

“I’ll welcome stories that celebrate any longstanding human connection: tuakana teina, long-serving colleagues, bromances, friendships and more. Please email with the subject heading The Two of Us, write or pop in,” Sigrid says.

And number three?

“Unforgettable Pets …dogs, cats, goats … has a pet or a working dog or horse left an indelible impact on your life with its quirky ways?

“It doesn’t matter when, even if it was 80 years ago – if the memories are fresh and you want to share them with our readers, please write or visit so we can share the story. Photos of cute or hideous animals are necessary here,” Sigrid says..

It’s over to you readers – you’ll reach Sigrid at sigrid@goodlocal.nz

YOUR LETTERS

Waikato Chamber of Commerce wants Ōtorohanga and Te Kūiti district councils to amalgamate with Waikato Regional Council.

As ratepayerss we agree to pay the 7-20 per cent increase in rates reported in the April 4 King Country News.

However we disagree to amalgamation to Waikato - the reason being Ōtorohanga and Te Kūiti local councils both have brilliant working team employees, who we believe should have a fair go in deciding what is best for them and their families without leaving their home district just to satisfy government implementations. Our mayor is correct in pointing out his council and neighbour Ōtorohanga “are substantially the King Country Maniapoto”.

Should working team employees from Te Kūiti and Ōtorohanga District councils decide to agree with increased rates as well as a fair increase in wages, only then will employees and their families remain in their own two districts.

James and Shirley Barlow Te Kūiti

Editor’s note: Waikato Chamber of Commerce chief Don Good has not promoted a merger –but he has suggested that a debate should be had over whether on not boundaries drawn up in 1989 are providing the best value for residents in the greater Waikato.

More than 70 crosses overlooking the harbour have Aotea links.

It should be the two of us...

Waitomo mayor John Robertson has added to his call for Waitomo and Ōtorohanga district councils to talk about amalgamating.

The conversation should not just be among mayors – it should be among councillors as well he said at the recent council meeting.

“So there is good discussion to be had between both councils, this was tested some years ago and was rejected by Ōtorohanga District

Council and supported by Waitomo.”

In 2001 Waitomo District sought a merger with Ōtorohanga.

It was reported this was driven by then Waitomo Mayor Steve Parry fearing surrounding districts were contemplating dividing up Waitomo among them.

It was also reported the amalgamation venture was initiated by the Waitomo Caves community unhappy with the council’s services

Three jobs

– and 78 applications

Winning a spot in New Zealand’s top line mechanic crews is proving to be tough.

The Lines Company (TLC) is recruiting trainee line mechanics to join its crew based in Te Kuiti – and candidates are facing tough competition with 78 people applying for the three spots available.

General manager, service delivery, Jared Murrell said the company was whittling down applicants, but it wasn’t easy.

“We’ve had some really fantastic people apply – from school leavers right though to qualified tradies. People know it’s a great job, working in their own community and with no two days the same,” Murrell said.

“Plus, at the end of your training, you come out of it with really valuable national qualifications. We’re stoked with the number of great applications we’ve had; it reflects really well on our community and on the company. Our crews have got a really good reputation for doing the hard mahi when it counts, and people see that.”

The company was now in the process of short-listing applicants before putting them through some practical tests. Applications have closed and appointments are likely to be made next month.

and decisions.

Acting Ōtorohanga mayor at the time Richard Jolly said the merger was rejected because it would not have benefitted Ōtorohanga.

“I do believe there are significant savings by coming together,” Robertson said in his mayoral report.

He noted the present boundaries were set in 1989 as part of reform by the Labour Government.

“Since then Auckland council has been formed to bring seven councils together – but when you think back to 1989, that’s 35 years ago that there was a look at the way district boundaries were set.

“And 35 years later I think it is time for us to look at it.

“Technology’s changed we have meetings with zooms, you know we are not a long way apart in terms of communications

Riding in the rain

and meetings and so on.”

For ratepayers, he said savings would be well above a million dollars. There would be rationalisation of one district plan, one long term plan and annual plan.

“Given all the regulations and legislation councils have had put on them over the last 35 years,” he said it was time councils again had a look.

• See Mergers: lots to talk about – Page 7.

Job hub in the running

The Ōtorohanga Employment Hub is a finalist in the New Zealand Recruitment Consulting Staffing Association Awards for Excellence in Social Purpose.

The awards evening in Auckland on June 13 will be attended by mayor Max Baxter.

“This is the third time we have been finalist, third time lucky maybe,” project navigator Elle Freestone said.

“When we were first finalists in 2021, the business, Mayors Task Force for Jobs, had only been running a very short period of time.”

The task force is a partnership between Local Government New Zealand and the Ministry of Social Development that has a strong focus on getting young people into sustainable employment.

During the 2022-23 year, 1706 people around the country benefited from the task force Community Employment Programme, surpassing the target of 1,450 employment outcomes.

“So we are three years down the track we are still here - which is fabulous - and still doing things right, so that’s cool,” Freestone said.

The hub is coming up on its fourth year of running the programme.

“We’ve been a member since the hub started. It’s a big deal, a big night out, and we are looking forward to it and hoping to maybe bringing something home to Ōtorohanga.”

John Robertson

Jared Murrell.

Ōtorohanga’s Eva Davis, riding Jungle Bunny, was pictured in action during last weekend’s pony club eventing championships in Papatoetoe where she placed 3rd overall in her category. See story Page 15. Photo: Shots Photography

Amio

WEAVING THE FUTURE, T OGETHER KOTAHITANGA

HAVE YOUR SAY!

Council is committed to a transparent and collaborative process in shaping the future of our district - from 5 April to 6 May 2024, we are asking our communities for feedback on what we have proposed in the following plans:

LONG TERM PLAN

2024-34

RURAL CONCEPT PLAN

KĀWHIA/ AOTEA/ŌPĀRAU CONCEP T PLAN

YOU CAN HAVE YOUR SAY ONLINE OR DROP IN TO ONE OF OUR SITES TO GET A SUBMISSION FORM.

Citizenship Ceremony

We were delighted to celebrate this significant moment with our new whānau and their loved ones on Tuesday 9 April. We are thrilled you have chosen our district to be your homeŌtorohanga welcomes the following people:

Mukesh Chand (Fiji)

Shauna Southern (UK)

Andrew White (South Africa)

Natasha Gagiano (South Africa)

Navneet Kaur (India)

Upcoming council meetings

Kāwhia

For further information on all of our plans, and to have your say, head to engage.otodc.govt.nz

Our Ōtorohanga library recently held a mix and mingle evening, featuring the launch of Danielle Hawkins new book “Take Two”. This event was attended by over 60 people and was considered a huge success by all! Our book launch evenings are a great way to get out and meet other like-minded people in our community, keep an eye out for our next one.

Ōtorohanga Library STEM Sessions

Term 2

LEGO Mondays 3.30pm-4.30pm

Ages 6+

Build with LEGO

Places are limited Register now (07) 873 7175 or library@otodc.govt.nz

Join the STEM Mayhem challenge on Beanstack

littleBits Thursdays 3.30pm – 4.30pm

Ages 8-10

Create inventions with electric building blocks

160th O-rākau Commemoration

Ōtorohanga District Council representatives were privileged to attend the 160th Commemoration of O-rākau as invited guests alongside the Crown and other local government representatives. Council reaffirmed our commitment to honouring partnership relations with mana whenua through our attendance and were deeply moved by the kōrero shared about the history of O-rākau and the aspirations of mana whenua moving forward.

Hub network approved

Ōtorohanga’s redesigned community hub network has been endorsed by the district council which this week approved up to $50,000 to refine the project proposals and costings.

The money comes from the Ōtorohanga Town Concept Plan budget, which signalled the need for a multi-purpose community, arts and culture facility based in the Ōtorohanga town centre.

The network community hub concept emerged from about a six months community engagement process co-ordinated by Veros property consultants.

Veros was contracted in August 2023 to help solve the community’s civic centre/community hub requirements through community workshops. The recommendation is a network of community facilities developed from existing council properties featuring:.

• Library, Arts and Connection Hub – based on developing the current Ōtorohanga Library site.

• Community Services Hub –based on developing the current Ōtorohanga Support House Whare Āwhina site.

• Civic Hub – based on developing the Ōtorohanga Club hall facility, in agreement with the Ōtorohanga Club as owners of

the property.

The other options were to remain with the status quo, or build a new town hall/civic centre at a rough estimate of around $15 million.

Council chief advisor Ross McNeil said as a result of the extensive community engagement process, he was confident in the Veros recommendation.

The estimated development’s ‘high level’ cost is about $5.3 million. The estimate doesn’t include broader operational costs which are expected to be further developed before the project goes ahead.

The study considered potential external funding sources and further assessment of these, along with possible council and partner contributions, will be required Ross said – as in current economic conditions it was unlikely that the project could proceed without significant external funding.

“We have heard from our partners, stakeholders and the community that better inside places and spaces are required for people and groups to recreate, connect and receive support, and building on what we already have to achieve this is a win-win for the whole community,” Mayor Max Baxter said.

Heads up, we’re flying by

Gardeners want help

By Sigrid Christiansen

Te Kūiti’s community garden, the Maara Kai, is suffering from a lack of community support.

The maara, which supplies veggies for organisations like food banks and the women’s refuge is facing serious challenges due to a lack of volunteers, and from the “minimal” funding available.

“We desperately need community help in the garden, or we will have to close.”

That’s the blunt message from Maara Kai manager Michelle Wi and committee member Helen Turner.

“We are just asking people to spend an hour a week,” Michelle said. “Simple things like putting in seedlings, weeding, and doing garden maintenance.

Spending time in the garden would do great things for helpers’ wellbeing and mental health.

“Nothing heals like having two hands in the soil.”

It would also help people build up a social network.

There was no need to go on a roster or commit for long periods of time, although volunteers are asked to check in with Michelle about the best time to help out.

Helen said having more helpers would also free up Michelle’s time for other important causes, such as running workshops on

preserving fruit and vegetables, and the garden’s administrative tasks.

The garden is competing for a small pool of dollars with every other community organisation in the area: “There is minimal funding available,” Helen said.

The trust has also talked with other community bodies, to

ensure donated food parcels ended up in the hands of those who most needed them.

And the gardens do get help thanks to Corrections, who provide workers.

But unless things change and quickly, the trust will no longer be able to afford to keep going in its current form.

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

Michelle Wi is asking community members to show their support for the garden, which ensures that local children in struggling families still have access to healthy vegetables.

Photo Sigrid Christiansen

OBITUARY – JENNY YATES 24.12.1944 - 4.4.24

Romantic till the end

By Sigrid Christiansen

“Our granny who wrote pornos.”

That’s one way the late author Jenny Yates was remembered by family and friends.

But they didn’t forget her energy, her independent ‘get on with it’ mentality and her warmth for one moment.

She lived in the King Country for many years, in Piopio and in Tokirima, 32km from Taumarunui. She was also connected to Waipā through her husband Peter’s longstanding employment on Waikeria prison’s dairy farm. “Regency erotica,” was Jen’s preferred term to describe her work.

“I didn’t want to read them because they were about what Nana and Grandad got up to,” eldest grandchild Clint told giggling mourners at her funeral.

The writer of 18 books died of cancer at 80, at Huntly on April 4 and a celebration of her life was held in the town four days later.

With Jenny having been unconscious for some time, Peter had popped into the garden when their granddaughter cried out.

“Nana’s calling your name.”

They were the only clear words she had spoken in the day, he said.

“ ‘I’m here dear,’ I said, and I put my arms around her and felt her breathing becoming less and less, and her body shutting down.

“She died in my arms. That was her last wish, and she got that.”

Impeccably dignified ex-school principal Jenny embraced her saucy publishing career in her eighth decade, already with years of writing.

“I have a whole world going on in my head. Typical writer,” she told the King Country News in 2023.

That world was peopled by headstrong Regency beauties who dressed as pirates and rode astride, plus duels, sword-fights, kidnappings… and debauchery “of the first water,” as her fictional rake Lord Windermere might have put it.

She joined the group Romance Writers of New Zealand over 25 years ago; they became her closest friends. There, she saw people all around her writing: and succeeding at it.

Having not made traction with traditional publishing, she threw herself into learning all the skills of self-publishing on Amazon, a significant feat for one who would not have described herself as a computer person.

Her first romance novel, A Deal with the Devil, was released in 2015 when she was 71.

She wanted to see “whether anybody cared, whether anybody liked what I wrote. And they did.”

“Scary as all hell,” is how she felt after sharing that first book. “Exposing the secret life of your mind is probably daunting at any age.”

Her first reaction? Relief that her mother was no longer alive to be shocked.

Her body of work included two Regency-era series of four books, three anthologies and a

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.

two-book fantasy series set in Atlantis.

It was in Tokirima that Jenny started seeing Peter Yates, who became her cherished husband of four decades.

Their romance started deliciously: with dessert.

“He pursued me in an obvious fashion. He lived alone in a house not far from where I was. He rang me and said, ‘I’ve made this Pavlova and it hasn’t risen,’ Jenny told The News early last year when the paper published a profile of her.

“It’s a strange feeling reading the raw bones of your life in a public newspaper,” she later wrote.

Afterwards, she reflected on her creativity’s deepest source – her connection with the people around her, the threads in her life’s tapestry.

“Whatever we achieve in our lives is not by our own efforts alone. So many people influence our lives, choices and creations in so many diverse ways, positive and negative.

“A writer gathers it all in and uses it as fuel in the creative furnace.”

She took her youthful energy into her last years, saying she “didn’t have the mental capacity” to be old.

“I’ve never felt old. I probably never will feel old regardless of what my body does,” she said in 2023.

Jenny grew up at the homestead of her family farm in the Bombay Hills, a “decrepit old monstrosity” which fed her artistic

imagination.

It had flimsy scrim walls lined with newspapers from the time of Queen Victoria, and when the wind blew, the walls “breathed” in a haunted manner, terrifying any visiting city cousins.

After her “sheltered” and proper upbringing, she later lived in 30 or 40 houses, most in the King Country and connected to her lifelong teaching career, before settling in Huntly.

Jenny and Peter lived for many years in Piopio, where she wrote books, communed with crystals, and ran an antiques shop.

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.

She is survived by Peter, her sibling, and four children: Tagaloa, Tanima, Velani and Vaiafai Bernard.

Jen had 11 grandchildren, and to date 14 great grandchildren, the last of whom she felt blessed to meet, as a four-month-old, just days before she died..

Golden age of rail recalled

By Paul Charman

The golden age of passenger rail was recalled when old met young at the Ōtorohanga Railway Station last Thursday.

The idea was for senior citizens from Hillview Home, Te Kūiti, to meet and chat with youngsters from local schools and pre-schools to explain how train travel was part of every day life when they were growing up. A covid scare meant Beattie Home residents could not make it.

The children will be encouraged to draw pictures based upon these conversations which will be displayed during the 100-year-celebrations of Ōtorohanga Railway Station on June 8.

June Flynn (nee Patterson) recalled meeting her grand father arriving at the Station when she was just six years of age, then returning with him by train for a holiday in Statford.

“In 1965 my class went from Ōtorohanga to Wellington on a school trip, which included seeing the land then newly reclaimed for the Airport and a visit to Parliament.”

Prue Wilson recalled meeting her grand mother, who lived in Featherston, when she came to visit the family by train. As a child she was raised in Greytown, where her enture primary school travelled to the Hutt Valley to see the Queen during a royal visit. “We lined up on Trenthan Racecourse and waved to Her Majesty as she drove past.”

Hillview resident Vivian

Wilson recalled living her childhood in Ohura, where her dad was the local policeman. He arranged for her to ride in the cab on the way to Taumarunui, perched in the driver’s lap. Ailsa Mitchel was raised on her parents farm at Marakopa. After leaving home to go nursing at Waikato Hospital, she travelled back to Ōtorohanga by train on days off to stay with her

parents, who picked her up from the station in their Hillman car, and to see her fiance. “Trains really are the best way to travel,” Ailsa said.

The station will mark its centennary on June 8 with an event which will close off Wahanui Cres for a market from 9am to 2pm, and involve historic photo displays, street performers and vintage cars and tractors.

Mergers: lots to talk about

By Roy Pilott

A national conversation about local, regional and national decision making and service provision is needed before any discussion about amalgamation, a Waikato local body leader has told The News.

Waikato Regional Council chair Pamela Storey says optimal structures must be identified first.

Her comments were the latest in responses to requests from the News for views from district leaders after the Waikato Chamber of Commerce chief Don Good said it was time to have a conversation about regional boundaries.

“For any change to be effective, we think all government functions and roles need to be reviewed before restructuring local government,” Storey said.”

“In other words, form must follow function.”

Good listed 13 potential players – suggesting western wards of Rotorua Lakes district could be in the frame for debate.

Rotorua’s Tania Tapsell told The News it was difficult to believe combining councils would bring additional benefit.

“Amalgamation has overhyped efficiencies and has already proven to be a failure with both the recent health and tertiary education sector reforms that combined local to nation-wide entities,” she said.

“I’m a strong advocate for keeping decision making local. Each community in the region is unique and has their own priorities. I’d be very concerned that if councils combined, the bigger population cities might suck up all of the funding.

Pamela Storey believed “overall” local government does a good job for communities, and in the Waikato regional, city and district councils worked well together.

But it was clear councils were straining under the pressures of capacity issues and lack of funding.

“Central government has to stop loading work onto us without the funding to go with it – the ‘unfunded mandate’ must stop.”

It was a point also made by Tapsell.

“The biggest challenge is trying to run and maintain a city on funding limited to the rates we collect from our residents.

“A better solution to help councils deliver more for those we serve would be the Government assisting us with additional funding for critical services like water and roading.”

Don’t wait any longer! We are here to help!

Kaea Ngapo, 7, from Kio Kio gleans some train memories from Hillview resident  Vivian Wilson.

Chateau ‘deserves support’

By Paul Charman

The strategic director of the Hotel Council of Aoteroa James Doolan says it would be a “real shame” to lose an asset like the Chateau Tongariro, said.

“The Chateau is an iconic hotel property in the New Zealand ecosystem and in order to create a thriving visitor economy as well as the moutains and the rivers and the views we need good high quality accommodation like this one,” he said.

Luxury hotels had a primary role in encouraging highspending tourists into the country. They deserved to be “incentivised” by both local and central government.

“The kind of tools which could be used could include rebating the GST that gets earned by the hotel.

Considering the money they bring in; I’d like to see incentives like those once offered to overseas film companies.”

He had heard that the

Chateau had become run down in recent years, as the previous owners did not keep it up to the mark.

“I haven’t visited for a while but I think its evident that running a luxury hotel is not a high margins business. Luxury hotels might expect to have one employee per guest room.

“And if you have that, your employee costs are $30 an hour and the labour costs alone for running a luxuary hotel might be $240 a room per day.

“So I think the demise of the Chateau in its present form has shown how running a hotel of any kind is not an easy business.

“Obviously that’s been particularly so during the extended period of borders being closed to intenational travellers. It’s very hard to recover from that extended period without getting revenue.

“Add to that operating in a national park, a bit of isolation

for staff to overcome, iwi land claims working their way through the system and the need for earthquake strengthening. It all adds up, but its also all present elsewhere.”

He said the Chateau was competing with destinations around world which touted for the same international travellers. Most of these had lower construction costs, lower land costs, less strenuous earthqauke regulations and an easier way of doing business.

“The challenges of running a hotel are tough enough even in a modern building, built to standard and the highest levels of energy efficiency. But when you inherit an historic building and need to bring it up to standard then that’s an extra cost layer that sits on top of running the hotel.”

Overseas the regulators, the councils and central government used tools to encourage hotel development, recognising that highend hotels facilitated the

James Doolan

entire tourism economy.

“Tourism was New Zealand’s largest export earner before Covid and is currently number two, even as we still recover from Covid. Many other destinations that heavily rely on tourism could be a little more proactive in helping to encourage investment in hotels, where and when they are needed.

“The Chateau is the perfect example of how challenging it is to run a hotel, particularly when high value international travellers have been effectively shut out for an extended period of time. I feel the Chateau deserves support in order to flourish once more.”

What Doc says

Q: The Chateau is said to be in poor condition generally. Is this true? If not, what is the state of the Chateau building currently?

A: The Chateau is in poor condition and requires repairs and seismic strengthening.

Q: What progress has been made in assessing the amount/ cost of earthquake strengthening since February, 2023?

A: As the end of lease negotiations are still ongoing, we cannot comment on details related to those negotiations.

Q: Can you tell us what the cost would be to make the building safe?

A: No estimates for seismic strengthening work have been commissioned or received by DOC. As such at this time we cannot provide an estimate for potential seismic strengthening costs.

Q: Any progress in finding an investor or consortium willing to take this hotel on to run it?

A: We are currently exploring all options and once things have been finalised, further details will be available.

Q: On March 30 the Weekend Herald reported that with the heating now turned off, the Chateau is not a good place to store

various chattels which have been left inside the building, such as the painting of the Pink and White Terraces, by Carl Kahler, which is said to have deteriorated in the conditions there. Any comment on the state of this painting and the other furnishings and chattels inside the building?

A: All chattels within the building were the property of Kah New Zealand Limited the previous lessee who purchased these items when they took over the lease on the building in 1991. The Department is not aware of all assets owned by Kah NZ Ltd but can confirm a large number were left in the building at the end of the lease, including a range of paintings, building fittings, and furniture. The Department is only able to confirm the state of the Pink and White Terraces painting, which has some signs of deterioration.

Q: Is DOC confident that it has the expertise required to find a suitable entity/company/ consortium to take over the lease of this historic luxury hotel, meet all the conditions required, and presumably fund the earthquake strengthening and refurbishment required to open it once more to the public?

A: We are currently exploring all options and once things have been finalised, further details will be available.

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Tongariro’s Emerald Lakes are weed free

Tongariro Alpine Crossing’s distinctive Emerald Lakes are weed free again thanks to years of work by Department of Conservation staff.

Known for their jewel-like colours caused by dissolved minerals, the Emerald Lakeshores and shallows have been smothered by the invasive Juncus bulbosus. Juncus bulbosus, or bulbous rush, is native to Eurasia and North Africa and showed up in New Zealand more than a century ago. It is commonly found in swampy places, especially in areas with high rainfall like Tongariro.

DOC Supervisor Danial Van der Lubbe said the lakes are an iconic part of the landscape.

“We know they are important to so many people – hapū, local communities, and those who complete the Tongariro Alpine Crossing.”

Twice a year since 2019, rangers conducted weed control around the edges of the lakes, and in the lakes themselves.

This year, for the first time, Juncus density is down to undetectable levels in the lakes - a positive milestone for the health of a site considered internationally significant.

“We still have some work to go around the edges and will keep checking to make

POLICE DESK

Te Kūiti

April 18: At 10.39am Te Kūiti despatched two crews after an alarm was activated at Omya Lime Works, on Hangatiki East Rd. A fire had started in a power box, which fire fighters pulled down and rendered safe. However, the call demanded that crews were at the scene for a couple of hours, fire chief Hayden Sheedy said.

April 22: At 2.19pm the brigade backed up Ōtorohanga following a house fire in Maniapoto St. Later that day the brigade was called to a single car crash on SH4 but were turned around before they arrived.

Ōtorohanga

April 18: at 10.52 am the brigade were called out to back up Te Kūiti following the alarm activation at Omya Lime Works.

At 8.20 pm that day fire trucks from Ōtorohanga and Te Awamutu were called out after a car rolled on SH3 at Te Kawa. However, the uninjured occupants had extricated themselves.

Tongariro water-bodies are considered tapu, and walkers are asked to avoid swimming in them.

sure it doesn’t pop up again in the lakes themselves,” says Danial.

“The next big step for us is eDNA testing of the larger Blue Lakes for Juncus – we haven’t detected anything visually, but the DNA check will tell us for sure.”

DNA testing of Blue Lakes is being conducted as part of the larger Tongariro Alpine Crossing sustainability project, which includes a range of changes to better manage environmental and cultural outcomes.

DOC and Ngāti Hikairo ki Tongariro want to ensure the experience of walking the Tongariro Alpine Crossing is safe, protects the fragile environment, and respects the cultural significance of the area.

Tongariro water-bodies are considered tapu, or sacred, and walkers are asked to avoid swimming in them.

April 22: At 2.19pm. The brigade was called to a house fire on Maniapoto St near the town’s south bridge. The electrical fire was put out with a hose reel and there was only moderate damage to the house. Ōtorohanga fire chief Neville King said it was fortunate that a neighbour noticed the smoke and alerted a person living in a garage next door to the house, who started putting the fire out ahead of the brigade’s arrival. “It was a good save,” King said.

Piopio

April 22: At 2.19 pm crews from Piopio, Benneydale and Te Kūiti turned out after a car left the road and crashed on SH4 A north bound vehicle had crashed into the water table on the opposite side of the road. The two occupants of the vehicle managed to get themselves out of the vehicle ahead of the brigade’s arrival.

They suffered moderate to minor injuries and were taken to Te Kūiti Hospital for treatment. The brigade secured the scene and directed traffic.

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Ringing the history bells

By Paul Charman

The National Association of Historical Societies gathered in Taumarunui for their annual meeting on Saturday.

The treasurer of the Taumarunui Historical Society, Audrey Walker, said the group, comprising more than 30 visitors, were drawn from historical societies in Auckland and the Waikato.

There were also delegates from historical societies in Wellington and Far North and Invercargill,” Walker said.

The society members had attended an annual conference in Morrinsville last year, at which some asked to come to Taumarunui for their next annual meeting,” Audrey said.

They got through the official business of the day at the RSA on Saturday morning, then visit nearby Ngāpuwaiwaha Marae.

At the marae historical society members heard about the writing of “When the Bells Toll”, a book published in 1994 and now

out of print, telling the stories of Alexander Bell and his wife Katrina.

Alexander, who arrived in Taumarunui in 1874, was the first Pakeha to live permanently there and the couple have many descendants in the King Country and beyond.

On Saturday afternoon the historical society members had a bus tour which included a visit to the Taumarunui Rail Action Centre and sightseeing around the district.

Some travelled to Endean’s Mill, at Waimiha, and the entire group were entertained on Saturday night by the Taumarunui Ukelele Orchestra.

Audrey said the historical society, which had published 16 books since 2008, had an excellent standing among historians right round the country.

“The delegates really enjoyed their time with us, despite heavy rain for much of the day.

GARDENING FOR BLOOMING BEAUTIES AND PLANTS THAT THRIVE

Simple combinations for your garden

Katrina

Christison Tidy Gardens

Tree - Cercis canadensis ‘Forest Pansy’ - A beautiful tree with deep reddish-purple, heart-shaped foliage. Multi-stemmed tree with small, deep-pink flowers produced on dark, bare branches in early spring. Great for colour contrast in the garden. Deciduous. Hardy.

Hedge - Michelia ‘Figo’ - Wonderful small evergreen tree is great for small gardens and is easily able to be carefully trimmed to keep its shape, this also makes it good for use as a hedge, topiary or used in a large container. Plant where you will be able to enjoy the sweet scent of its flowers. Easily able to be incorporated into mixed shrub plan.

For the shady spots under the tree or against the hedge you could use a mixture of the following: Blechnum penna marina - Cold hardy, tol frost & full sun, pink tinge to new fronds. Great around rocks. Low-growing, compact, evergreen fern from 5 to 25 cm in height, depending on conditions.

Bergenia cordifolia - Low clump forming perennial hardy & vigorous. The wavy green leaves develop plum-red tones in winter. Stems of bell-shaped coral-pink flowers rise above the foliage mid spring. Thrives in most positions. Tolerates a wide range of soil conditions, moist but not waterlogged. Suits sun, part shade & heavy shade. Tolerant of moderate frost, cool climates, & short periods of dry. May die back during winter in cooler areas. Helleborus orientalis pink shadeGreat for incorporating into shady mixed borders or naturalising under trees in beds, they enjoy semi-shade and in fertile,

well-drained soil.

Ligularia reniformis - A distinctive perennial with large, glossy-green kidneyshaped leaves. Commonly known as the ‘tractor seat’ plant. Distinctive yellow flowers in summer, which I would cut off and just grow for the wonderful large, impressive foliage display. Will stand damp conditions and part shade. RENIFORMIS Known as the tractor seat plant.

For the sunny spots –Pittosporum tenuifolium ‘Little Kiwi’Dwarf growing Pittosporum which can be forms as a compact ball or used as a low border hedge. Prune to size and shape as required. Hardy. 60cm.

Cosmos atrosanguineus – Chocolate cosmos perennial grown as much for its scent of vanilla and hot chocolate as for its dusky brownish-red late-summer blooms. It’s perfect for growing i a hot sunny garden and makes an exotic cut flower.

Lomandra longifolia Misty Green’ - A fine foliaged Lomandra, great for landscaping with its fountain of grey green leaves. Very low maintenance once established, frost and drought tolerant. It has scented yellow flowers. Suitable for coastal sites. Grows in full sun to part shade and in most well 50cm x 50cm.

Zephyranthes candida - Crocus-like white flowers sometimes blushed with pink bloom singly atop upright stems above a tuft of outward-spreading narrow grass-like green leaves. Bloom appears in late summer to early autumn.

Deciduous bulbous perennial (which can prove to be evergreen in warmer climates) growing up to 20cm in height and indefinite in spread.

To make this combo work in the garden you could just mix and match to suit your soil & site.

Historian Ron Cooke (left) worked on “When the Bells Toll”, which tells the stories of Alexander and Katarina Bell, with Norma Turner (centre) who co-authored the book with Bev Muraahi. Norma’s sister Maggie Taite holds a bottle of Bell whiskey, though the contents are not historically connected to the family.

Norma Turner escorted members of historical societies to the gave side of Alexander and Katarina Bell, where they paid their respects.

Draft coastal concept plan adopted

The coastal draft concept plan for Kāwhia/Aotea and Ōpārau has been adopted for public consultation by the Ōtorohanga District Council along with the rural draft concept plan.

The coastal plan is a collection of proposed projects and initiatives to support place shaping and improved liveability across the district’s coastal areas that are filed into short medium and long term time frames.

This sorting is intended to shift key moves and outcomes over time to being funded and delivered, when funding and partners have been identified.

The process will involve engaging further with key stakeholders, including mana whenua, the community, local community organisations and businesses, and key landowners within Kāwhia, Aotea and Ōpārau.

The council recommended the draft concept plan be supported by an action plan for each of the outcomes to be achieved, identifying those responsible for delivery, project costs, and timeframes.

Outcomes expected include exploring alternative access to Ocean Beach and Te Puia Springs from Tom French Grove and creating a bylaw restricting vehicle access around Kāwhia headland. Also included is the consideration of options for protection of the beach including fencing and signage. Formalising the walking connection between Te Puia/Ocean Beach, Kāwhia and Aotea is also included.

The list includes the development of a reserves management strategy for the area to consider restoration, regeneration and planting opportunities.

That segways into memorial planting opportunities, parking and access, fencing and protection, pest management and improvement of recreation and amenities including public toilets.

At Ōpārau the council is looking at introducing traffic calming and speed reduction along Kāwhia Road approaching the roadhouse and management of the road layout and intersection design to improve safety.

The plan also promises to scope and undertake a study of the three waters capacity and needs of the community, with community engagement in the design and implementation.

The coastal region is also going to have its own climate change response plan to address climate risk assessment including flooding, sea level rise and coastal erosion and to understand and consider the community values of existing assets.

Long term solutions to sea-level rise and erosion are to be sought, including an approach to management of sea-walls and management of three waters assets, including septic tanks.

That assessment will also look at the possible future relocation of the town hall and the museum – plus the future location of commercial activities.

Also on the to do list is exploring opportunities for the creation and consolidation of Kāwhia’s community services such as the medical services, gym, information centre, library, Te Toi Ora / Outreach services.

A fresh look at old portraits

By Sigrid Christiansen

An expert in the near-lost art of “wet plate” (pre-film) photography hopes to bring his skills to Kāwhia.

Adrian Cook uses Victorian era tech to create visually

striking, heirloom portraits intended to last 200 years, and is offering people the experience of being photographed like their great-great grandparents.

The process appeals to history lovers and those who value handmade things.

From Monday to Friday, Adrian is a professional photographer. But this is his weekend hobby and passion project, with charges covering the costs such as paper and chemicals.

Now, he hopes to make portraits of coast locals, older people especially, both Māori and Pākehā.

“Everyone really.”

But first, he needs to use “a room or a little shed” for a day or two.

It only needs power: no

special equipment, because he travels with a mobile darkroom, a 1950s caravan.

He takes one portrait an hour.

“I prepare a plate in the old fashioned way. I make my own film on the plate and then I go back, I take the picture, then return to my darkroom to start developing the picture. I show the sitter and their family as it develops in front of them. The plates are then washed.

“It’s like taking a Polaroid, it’s quite a beautiful thing.”

Surprisingly, sitters don’t have to stay still for hours at a time. The process just two to 10 seconds, because he uses a modern flash. Portraits taken in daylight require slightly longer, so he uses a back-brace to help the person stay still.

It’s still a long time.

“If you look at those photos from the 1850s, people look very stiff and upright because they were told not to smile.

“You can’t actually smile for five seconds,” he said. Some recent projects have been commissions by marae rather than individuals.

He spent the 2023 Matariki weekend working on portraits at Tumutumu (Tui) Marae in Te Aroha.

“I went to the pā and I photographed all of their members. They all came dressed in traditional clothing, handed down through the generations.”

Adrian does not pose or dress or dress sitters in a particular manner -although he will guide them based on his experience - rather, they decide how they will be depicted.

Kāwhia’s future vulnerability to climate change is considered in the draft concept plan.

Adrian Cook ©Felipe Neves 2020

Adrian photographed

Colleen Renata at Matariki weekend last year

Shear passion for wool drives Piopio doyen

Piopio residents met with the council staff this week to discuss alterations to the payment system at the Tui Park camp.

Work is underway installing more power points - and a card operated barrier arm at the entry. It’s the barrier arm that has alarmed residents concerned the KiwiCash sytem will discourage customers.

Campers are required to buy a digital key from a local retailer, download an app from the apple app store, google play or visit the website and create an account, which can be topped up by credit card.

But the KiwiCash system is seen as taking no account of late night travellers, and or peoople new to the country.

Mayor John Robertson said at a recent council meeting he encountered tourists who found the service station closed and were going to leave town until he found someone to pay for their showers which are already on the

Council calls in for Tui Park talks

KiwiCash system.

New Zealand Wool Board and got to travel the world to ply his skills.

He also asked why the KiwiCash system was being introduced to the only camp ground in the district that was making a profit – using an honesty box system.

In 2002, Mark was offered the opportunity to own his contracting business which he grabbed with both hands. He

“Basically, I shore around the world and was about to move to Australia to shear when the McDonalds decided to move on to a new chapter in their lives and offered me their business.”

Staff said the change was to streamline Piopio’s Tui Park with the others. And while the campers got good value at $5 a night the council should be making more money out of it.

He has been actively involved in the NZ Shearing Contractors Association since 2003 and was elected its president

“I do question the move when its making money now for council, and I dont want it to become a barrier,” Robertson said.

In the role, he has worked closely with Employers and Manufacturers Association and employment lawyers regarding employment agreements and

Cr Gavin Todd asked if the prices would have to be raised because KiwiCash took 20 per cent.

“Yes possibly,”

Piopio resident Pete Nicol said under the current system the park was full several nights a week.

“We sort of like it that way because the more people in there the better it is for us – whether some don’t pay or whatever,” he said.

“I absolutely love it because you can try and drive the industry onwards and upwards while getting a picture of the whole industry within New Zealand because there are so many different

“It just brings people into the town and they are spending money in the shops, the workshops are getting work from some of the camper vans. There’s quite a spin off through the town from the park.

“I get insight as to how many things are happening behind the scenes with As Association president Mark is excited about the future of his industry as society is now moving towards the use of more sustainable products. The industry however, still had a huge amount of work to do with its supply

all round the country, he thought we needed a motorhome park in Piopio,” Pete said.

The NZ Motor Caravan Association park over property scheme started in 1991, with one member offering overnight parking at her property. It has since grown into a unique network of overnight parking locations on private land throughout New Zealand.

They had an IRD registered bank acount run by Pete’s mum and income was invested back into the park. Trees were planted and a building added.

“There was not any consultation to discuss what they were going to do, they just went ahead and did it.”

He said Tuesday’s meeting was the result of a call to chief executive Ben Smit, who conceded the council should have consulted with the community.

The park was the initiative of Pete’s dad Snow Nicol who with the help of local contractors and money out of his own pocket cleared the former tip site and BMX track.

chain and to maintain and improve the quality of its wool because “as a nation that has dropped off but it’s been market driven” he said

“Because he was motorhoming

Mark considers his main achievement at Barrowcliffe Shearing as being the development of young people through

Before the council got involved the Nicols were supplying toilet paper for the toilets, from Three Way Motors, and sending their cleaner over to clean the toilets. Eventually the council started mowing it, he said.

Snow Nichol had pamphlets printed by a business association member and he would hand them out around the park – and around the country.

“From their own vehicles to their own houses to businesses later on is awesome. The earning power they achieve by themselves and how they use it is just great and it warms my heart.” Owning his own contracting company has also enabled Mark to give back to the community with job creation and through Scouts, Lions Club and other charities.

Earthworks for the KiwiCash barrier arm are visible behind the park sign.

Golds eye Tech clash Rams, Swamp Foxes to raise curtain

King Country Rams and Thames Valley will face off at Hamilton’s FMG Stadium in late May in a curtain raiser to the Chiefs’ night clash with the Hurricanes.

The Heartland derby is a great addition to the rugby calendar, and would give club players the incentive to have a good pre-season and put their hands up for representative footy early in the season, King Country Rugby Union general manager Kurt McQuilkin said.

players exposure they might never have had, and a reason to get fit early.

Thames Valley head coach David Harrison said the opportunity gave their

“It also gives our clubs a real weapon when talking to prospective players about playing club rugby in the province, and it gives the Swamp Foxes coaches a chance to see local players in preparation for the Heartland season,” Harrison said.

Thames Valley won the last two clashed between the unions by close margins, 19-15 in 2022 and 27-21 last year.

Ōtorohanga will look to make it four from four when they host Fraser Tech in Waikato premier rugby on Saturday.

The Golds beat nearest neighbours Te Awamutu Sports 22-13 last weekend to stay joint top of the competition with Hamilton Marist and Hautapu, who both have away games this weekend.

Last weekend’s clash in Te Awamutu was a typically tough encounter – but also an entertaining game of high quality rugby played in sometimes trying conditions.

Ōtorohanga dominated early, the big pack led by number eight Murray Iti and strong running locks Josh Coffin and Turuva Lumelume proving a handful for the hosts.

The Golds score two tries to Iti and Lumelume, both converted by captain Hamish Clapcott, before Te Awamutu caught their visitors out before the break to score the third try of the game – then narrow the gap to 14-8 with a penalty in the second half.

The sides then exchanged tries before Clapcott extended the lead with a further penalty.

The win earned Ōtorohanga the George Simpkin Power Farming Memorial Trophy for the first time.

In the curtain raiser the Mckenzie Strawbridge Ōtorohanga Premier Development squad beat their Te Awamutu opponents 24-7

Sarah celebrates a final victory

By Sigrid Christiansen

Four Waitomo District riders had a “pretty epic” weekend at last weekend’s New Zealand Pony Club Eventing Championships at the Papatoetoe Pony Club.

Sarah Bevege’s first overall placing in the top, A1, category for riders jumping 110cm was significant.

She appreciated her victory on what will be her final time riding at a pony club competition; she will “age out” in June on her 25th birthday.

“It was cool to win on my last chance,” she said.

She last won her category in 2022 on the same horse, Ngātamahine JJ Airtime or “Willy” who is now aged 14. He was bred on her family’s property, just outside Piopio, out of her mum Pip Bevege’s dressage mare and an imported German stallion.

Sarah and the three other riders, first timer Annabella Were, Eva Davis and Tessa Bradcock were part of a larger Waikato team.

On the first day, dressage, Waikato took out the David Jones Trophy for the lowest

combined dressage penalties.

Sarah told The News the next day also went well in challenging conditions.

“All riders and horses had a great ride around cross country on the second day. They all jumped clear and under the optimum time, in horrible weather conditions over a tough track, to stay on their dressage penalties going into the final day of competition for the showjumping phase.

“All combinations did a fantastic job.”

The riders stayed strong in the showjumping on the third day.

Sarah said the Waitomo riders all came into the event feeling “pretty good”, with three of the four having competed at past championships.

It won’t be the end of Pony Club for Sarah. With niece Mia Terry showing a great interest in horse events, she will keep a hand in the game.

“I like helping out the young ones, so I will still be involved,” she said.

Silver show from Cooper in Foxton

By Paul Charman

Cooper Phillips of Ōtorohanga has placed second overall in the National Junior Motocross 125cc Championships, which finished at Foxton last Sunday.

Cooper’s dad, Shane, said it was no cake walk as the track

was challenging, and comprised very deep beach sand.

Practice qualifying did not go so well as Cooper’s bike had issues which saw him qualify seventh.

But as the races progressed his placing improved, to the point where a second in the last race

of the day would elevate hi to second overall.

He achieved five-from-five “hole shots”, meaning he got into the corner ahead of the pack each time, and enabled him to achieve second place.

His form as helped the 16-year-old gain sponsorship

from KTM, which will pay the costs associated with taking part in the Australian Junior Motocross racing for the rest of the season.

Cooper, who is a boarder at Hamilton Boy’s High, will be allowed time off his studies to compete, Shane said.

“It’s a great opportunity, and Cooper is keen to embrace the challenge of competing in Australia, where he’s previously had success in 85cc motocross events.

“But as for a career in international motocross – that’s a big super-competitive and expensive arena to contemplate. Rather than spending too much time thinking about the future, Cooper seems to be fine with dealing with the challenges that are in front of him and just enjoying the ride.”

That said, it seems quite evident that the young King Country rider has been turning heads as he makes his mark in the sport.

As well as becoming last year’s 85cc New Zealand Champion, he competed as a junior in the senior MX 125cc class this year, coming fourth overall over a four-round series.

College four on court

Ōtorohanga Squash Club is undergoing a revival with some new blood.

Four Ōtorohanga College students recently played their first squash tournament in Te Kūiti.

Hannah Burgess, Nicole Jones, Katelyn Clark, Karla Davey all benefited from competition games, club president Nick Clark said.

“By the conclusion of the weekend the games all had great serves, longer rallies and strategic corner placement of the ball to win over their opponents.

“It was great to observe their conversations as they scored and watched the skills of match players in higher level divisions.”

Proudly

Waitomo riders, from left, Tessa Bradcock, Sarah Bevege, Eva Davis, and Annabella Were.

Photo: Shots Photography

Annabella Were competed at her first NZ pony club eventing championship. Photo: Shots Photography.

Young Ōtorohanga motocross racer Cooper Phillips with his dad Shane Phillips.

Trophy time in bowls

Cambridge, Central Cambridge and Pirongia clubs will host 2024-2025 Waipa Lawn Bowls tournament this weekend.

Eight clubs comprise the Waipa district - Te Kūiti, Ōtorohanga, Cambridge, Central Cambridge, Kihikihi, Raglan, Pirongia and Te Awamutu.

The tournament is divided into three events and points are accrued over the day to find the winner of each trophy – Vagg Cup for men, John Hastie Cup for women, and Doug Myers Cup for players who have been bowling for less than five years.

Sixteen players from each club

will be following in the footsteps of some accomplished bowlers from the district who have competed over the past 30-plus years.

The contest was originally called Central Zone but changed to Waipa Division Bowls Waikato in 1994 and women were granted their requests to hold their own tournament on the same day in 2002.

The Vagg Cup is named after a former Central Cambridge member, John Hastie was secretary treasurer of the Bowls Waikato from 1996 to 2017 and Doug Myers was a member of the now defunct Leamington Bowling Club.

Newbies celebrate success

Two players with only a few months experience were in the prize money at Ōtorohanga Bowling Club’s last tournament for the season.

For one, Digby Ambury, it was the second time he had featured in a winning team, the previous time being at Piopio earlier this month.

The winning team of Gay Millin (skip), Bill Johnson and Ambury, from Ōtorohanga was the only combination to record four wins.

Another host club team skipped by Ernie

place with three wins and a draw.

took second

In third place with three wins was the

Foster, with John Appleton and Kieran Searle - also new to the sport -

Pirongia team of Malcolm Fisher (skip), Paul Rowlands and Tute Elvin.

From left, Gay Millin, club president David Hughes, Digby Ambury and Bill Johnson.

Spotlight PROPERTY YOUR REAL ESTATE GUIDE TO THE KING COUNTRY

Stand

This fully renovated art deco, four-bedroom, two-bathroom house is the perfect family home. With an approximate land area of 580sqm and building area of 122sqm approx, there’s plenty of room for everyone to enjoy.

out from the crowd

to keep energy costs down. Outside, you’ll find a deck/patio area for outdoor dining or, in the colder months, enjoy a coffee in the foyer.

LOCATION | 30 George St, Te Kūiti

LAND I 580m2

HOUSE | 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, carport

No stone has been left unturned here - the modern kitchen features excellent appliances, making meal preparation a breeze. The open plan living and dining area is perfect for entertaining guests or relaxing with the family.

The master bedroom has the added convenience of an ensuite, while one of the other rooms can be utilised as an office - perfect for working from home.

The house also boasts a heat pump and HRV system for year-round comfort, as well as ceiling and floor insulation

There’s a carport for off-street parking, partially fenced grounds and low maintenance gardens making it the perfect place to call home.

Centrally located with easy access to all amenities including a flat walk to town, close to an early learning centre, primary and high schools, hospital and medical centre.

Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to own a beautiful art deco home with leadlight windows and the comfort of modern living.

Open home: Sunday, April 28, 11.30am - 12 noon

PRICE | Deadline sale, closes May 13, 2024 4pm at Ray White, 115 Rora St, Te Kūiti unless sold prior

LICENSED AGENT | Ray White Te Kūiti

LICENSED SALESPERSON | Buzz Linn 027 496 0053

WEBSITE | rwtekuiti.co.nz

WEB ID | TEK30221

Piopio 26 Kea Street

Marokopa 443 Marokopa Road

Awamarino (Beside still waters)

Very well maintained throughout, this is a MUST VIEW property!

Contact Sue or Bruce today!

Sue Spurdle

M 027 476 8445

E sue.spurdle@harcourts.co.nz

Blue

Bruce Spurdle

M 027 474 4430

E bruce.spurdle@harcourts.co.nz

Blue

Set on 1.2748 hectares of land, ‘Awamarino’ was the historic site of the Marokopa Dairy factory from 1911-37. The main dwelling is a three bedroom home rich in character and charm with some modern touches. Native timber creates an inviting atmosphere from the moment you step inside. This property also has a sleepout/guestroom currently operated as a successful Air BNB. Other buildings include a 180m2 concreted floor half round barn/workshop, a separate 3 bay shed, as well as what was previously the Dairy Factory office/workermans quarters. With a bit of work and imagination this could be transformed into something quite special. With the Marokopa river bordering nearly half a km of the property, summer recreational activities are sorted, and whitebait fritters will feature high on your menu as long as you catch them before the large Rainbow trout that patrol the banks beat you to it. Not just a lifestyle or a house, this is a place you will be proud to call home.

Kerry Harty

M 027 294 6215 P 07 873 8700

E kjharty@harcourts.co.nz

Blue Ribbon Realty Limited Licensed Agent REAA 2008

Karen Lennox

M 027 559 4468 P 07 873 8700

E karen.lennox@harcourts.co.nz

Blue Ribbon Realty Limited Licensed Agent REAA 2008

This three-bedroom home, one bathroom home is now for sale. With a land area of 678ms approx. and a building area of 90m2 approx. there is plenty space for comfortable living. A outside unit will help when entertaining guest and visitors. A open plan living area with combined functional dining and lounge. Heating is provided by way of Heat Pump and Fire Box. Enjoy outdoor living on the decking area. A fully fenced yard provides privacy and security and parking with a single carport as well as off - street parking. Close to the St Josephs school and easy walking distance to town.

Step Back In Time

This gorgeous 1915 Villa is awaiting new owners. Character charm and spacious family living with marvellous high studs are perfect for creating living spaces catering for the demands of modern lifestyles. Three bedrooms each with own ensuite. A coal range sits in the kitchen surrounded by native hardwood timbers. Beautiful features that can't be duplicated today, they are the embodiment of the design of the late 1915's. Style may have changed over the intervening years, but Villas like this offer the opportunity to create a home full of period charm combined with contemporary living. A separate unit with kitchen and shower for income or guests, central to shops, town centre, parks/schools.

Well presented delight on 655 m2. The main one bedroom, single level dwelling with bathroom is set as the properties central point. Open plan lounge/kitchen lead through double doors to a large, fully covered, year round entertainers deck. PVC curtains ensure visibility and light dominate the area while keeping the elements at bay. Extensive, lower level decking at the rear provide al fresco dining as well as connect to two cabins for laundry and shower facilities and a separate double bedroom. The 8 x 5 high stud garage is a few steps to the side of the home for boat or large home handyman projects. Gas water heating, Solar panels and water tanks installed.

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Property For Sale

LAND FOR SALE

Wanting a lifestyle block right in town?

2.8549 ha

(By negotiation)

Plenty of scope to build that dream home Lies to the north. 7 paddocks, 3 bay implement shed (which could be used as a workshop), yards and loading race.

Town water and power at boundary. Wonderful views

Enquiries welcomed P 027 476 9559

For Sale

Calf Milk Pump

Bianco stainless $143.75 incl gst

Hynds Pipes, 17 Waitete Rd, Te Kūiti

P 07 877 8326

Sick of having things stolen?

Need somewhere secure to store chemicals?

Purchase a 10, 20 or 40 foot container.

Contact PGF Transport for details.

Phone 07 878 3622 or 027 223 9246 or email o ice@pgftransport.co.nz

Te Kūiti Branch only

Notice of aerial herbicide spraying

Waikato Regional Council advises that pursuant to section 114A of the Biosecurity Act 1993 and the Waikato Regional Plan, relating to Widespread Application of Agrichemicals (Permitted Activity Rule 6.2.4.9), spraying of pest plants will occur between 7 May and 30 June 2024. Application will be by helicopter.

Situations Vacant

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.

• 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)

Pest plants to be sprayed are listed in the Waikato Regional Pest Management Plan 2022-2032 and include (but are not limited to) variegated thistle (Silybum marianum).

A spray plan has been prepared in accordance with condition (f)(i), of rule 6.2.4.9 and is available for viewing. Herbicide to be used is Picloram and Triclopyr (Tordon Brushkiller XT) and Organomodified polydimethyl siloxane (Pulse Penetrant).

The area of operation is private properties on Fraser Smith Road, Manganui Road, Mangatoa Road and Waikauwau Road.

Spraying is weather dependent and will occur during daylight hours on any day, including weekends but excluding public holidays.

For more information, call Waikato Regional Council’s biosecurity pest plants team on 0800 800 401.

Occupiers adjacent to treated areas will be contacted prior to spraying.

CDA McLay Chief Executive www.waikatoregion.govt.nz

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

Teacher Aide (2 Positions) For Sale

FOR SALE!

CARAVAN 180 XL 6.5 metres, C.I. Munro, all aluminium frame, cert, self-contained with fully enclosed awning, double glazed, tinted windows, sleeps 5, microwave, Thetford cassette toilet, 3-way automatic fridge/ freezer (90ltrs), 5 good steel belted radials (8 ply), 90ltrs fresh water, 102ltrs grey, gas cooker & grill, 2 gas bottles, 230 volt & 12 volt lighting, fire extinguisher, excellent storage, galvanised chassis, no rust, only one devoted owner, beautiful condition.

Why would you pay $90,000 or more for a comparable new van when you could have all this for $50,000 REDUCED TO $45,000 REDUCED TO $40,000. Cambridge Ph 07 823 3576

PIRONGIA MARKET

Pirongia Community Centre, Crozier St

Sunday, April 28, 9am - 1pm Entertainment ‘Surprise’

Last Sunday of every month

Email jim1@xtra.co.nz or ph

Jim 027 366 5842

We’re hiring

People and Capability Advisor TE KŪITI

We’re looking for a People and Capability Advisor to join our team and provide strategic HR guidance and support.

• Are you a passionate and experienced People and Capability Advisor?

• Do you have at least 3 years of experience in a generalist HR role or a similar position?

• Do you have excellent communication, interpersonal, and influencing skills?

• Do you want to work for an organisation that values enhancing the capability of people, developing culture, and driving performance excellence?

Then a career as a People and Capability Advisor could be for you. You will be responsible for delivering high-quality HR services and solutions, with a focus on enhancing the capability of our people and driving performance excellence. You will also be involved in providing advice and guidance on HR policies, procedures, and best practices, supporting the development and implementation of HR initiatives and projects, also facilitating learning and development programmes and activities.

Senior Management Accountant TE KŪITI

We’re looking for a Senior Management Accountant to join our Finance and Pricing team, providing strategic financial guidance and analysis to senior management.

• Are you a Chartered Accountant or equivalent with at least 5 years of experience in management accounting or a similar role?

• Do you have excellent analytical, communication, and interpersonal skills?

• Do you want to work for an organisation that values health and wellbeing, innovation, and customer focus?

Then a career as a Senior Management Accountant could be for you. You will be responsible for preparing and discussing monthly management and financial reports, assisting with the annual budgeting and forecasting process, supporting the General Managers with financial insights and decision making, and leading financial inquiries and projects as required.

You will also be involved in regulatory reporting and analysis, group reporting, and finance systems support. You will work closely with various departments and external stakeholders to ensure accurate and reliable financial information and services.

For more info and to apply visit thelinescompany.co.nz/work

We’ll close applications when we find the right person, so don’t delay, apply today

PANORAMA MOTELS LTD, Private Company, 59 Awakino Rd, Te Kūiti has made application to the District Licensing Committee at Te Kuiti for the renewal of an On-licence and renewal of an on licence in respect of premises situated at 59 Awakino Rd, Te Kūiti and known as Panorama Motor Inn. The general nature of the business to be conducted under the licences is that of a motor inn. The days on which and the hours during which alcohol is to be sold under the licence are Monday to Sunday 10am to 2am the following day. Good Friday, Easter Sunday, Christmas Day and up to 1pm ANZAC Day for the purpose of dining only and 24 hour/seven days for those living on the premises. A variation is being applied for the licenced area. The application may be inspected during the ordinary office hours at the office of the District Licensing Committee at Waitomo District Council, Queen Street, Te Kūiti. 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, PO Box 404, Te Kūiti 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. This notice was first published on April 18, 2024.

JEFFARES INVESTMENTS LIMITED of Awakino

Hoteliers have made application to the District Licensing Committee at Te Kūiti for the renewal of an off-licence in respect of premises situated at Gribbin Street, Awakino and known as AWAKINO HOTEL. The general nature of the business to be conducted under the licences is that of hotel. The days on which and the hours during which alcohol is to be sold under the off-licence are Monday to Sunday 11am to 9pm. 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 Kūiti. 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 Kūiti 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.

Movie this Wednesday, for the 'young at heart'

Morning tea 10am at the Journey Church, Te Kūiti, movie 10.30am

All seniors welcome

FEN AND FIELD DISTILLERY LIMITED, 756 Te Kawa Rd, Te Awamutu has made application to the District Licensing Committee at Ōtorohanga for the grant of an off-licence (remote sales) in respect of premises situated at 756 Te Kawa Rd, Te Awamutu and known as Fen and Field Distillery Ltd. The general nature of the business to be conducted under the licence is Distillery (remote on line sales). The days on which and the hours during which alcohol is to be sold under the off licence are 24 hours per day, 7 days per week with limited hours of delivery. The applications may be inspected during the ordinary office hours at the office of the District Licensing Committee at Ōtorohanga District Council, Maniapoto Street,

JEFFARES INVESTMENTS LIMITED of Awakino Hoteliers have made application to the District Licensing Committee at Te Kūiti for the renewal of an on-licence in respect of premises situated at Gribbin Street, Awakino and known as AWAKINO HOTEL. The general nature of the business to be conducted under the licences is that of hotel. The days on which and the hours during which alcohol is to be sold under the on-licence are Monday to Sunday 11am to 1am the following day.

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 Kūiti. 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 Kūiti 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.

Do you have a bull sale coming up??

Contact Kim to promote your sale

kim@goodlocal.nz or 07 878 1188

ESSENTIAL SERVICES DIRECTORY

Police, Fire, Ambulance..................................Dial 111

Non emergency police...................................Dial 105

Te Kūiti......................................................07 878 1450

Ōtorohanga..............................................07 873 7399

Piopio.......................................................07 877 0490

Benneydale..............................................07 878 1370

Ōtorohanga..............................................07 873 8399

Te Kūiti......................................................07 878 7878

For all urgent out of hours call.................07 878 7878

Unichem Te Kūiti Pharmacy

Sat 9.30am - 12.30pm..............................07 878 8011

Unichem Ōtorohanga Pharmacy Sat 9am - 12.30pm..................................07 873 7294

Citizens Advice Bureau -Ōtorohanga, Te Kūiti and Taumarunui (free legal advice)...............................0800 367 222/07 878 7636

Community Mental Health Service..........07 878 8767

Emergencies..........................................0800 505 050

Counselling Services North King Country

Mon - Fri, 9am - 3pm................................07 873 7676

Waitomo Women’s Refuge Helpline........07 878 5081

...........................................................or 0800 733 843

Te Kūiti Hospital.......................................07 878 7333

Cancer Society supportive care nurse...0800 227 744

Te Kūiti Community House ......................07 878 5272

NKC Family Support Mon - Fri, 9am - 3pm...............................07 873 6502

Noise Control (Waitomo District Council)

.................................................................07 878 0800

Noise Control (Ōtorohanga District Council) .................................................................07 878 4000 Ōtorohanga District Council (24 hrs).......07 873 4000

Meetings

Brenda’s old shop

Peas in a Pod get together is on May 3, 10am, at Tiffany’s.

Everybody welcome

Meetings

Mangapeehi Paa Trustees AGM

Saturday, May 4, 2024 10am at Mangapeehi Pa

Agenda:

9am Registration

10am Karakia/Mihimihi

Apologies

2023 AGM minutes

Matters arising from 2023 AGM

Chairperson’s report

Financial report 2023

Startegic Plan update

Marae committee report

Wananga update

Charter ratification - if any Trustees nomination and election to rotation for Shakyra Te Aho, Pei Whatarangi and Rangi Te Po Whatarangi

General business

Whare Ki Rereahu Kura Tau Presentation

Mihi mutunga/karakia

Please bring a plate For enquiries 027 301 0059

Public Notices

THE FAT OWL LIMITED, 12 Ruru Street, Piopio has made application to the District Licensing Committee at Te Kūiti for the renewal of an On-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 restaurant. 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 applications may be inspected during the ordinary office hours at the office of the District Licensing Committee at Waitomo District Council, Queen Street, Te Kūiti. 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, PO Box 404, Te Kūiti 3941.

PUKEPOTO FARM TRUST

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

Saturday, April 27, 2024

Journey Church

Sheridan Street, Te Kūiti 10am

AGENDA

Apologies/proxies

Minutes of previous AGM

Annual report

General business

North King Country Motorcycle Club AGM

Everyone is welcome

Come along to stay informed and become involved.

Date – Wednesday, May 8 at 7.15pm Venue

The Business Collective Ōtorohanga 12 Hinewai St, Ōtorohanga

Mangapapa B2 Incorporation

Notice of Postponement

Due to Tangihanga and other unforeseen circumstances

Mangapapa B2 Inc Committee have no other choice but to postpone the 2023 AGM until further notice. We apologize for any inconvenience that this may have caused.

DAVIES, Aaron Paul: Slipped away peacefully on April 17, at Waikato Hospital. Very much loved son of Pat and Bruce Alderson and Garry Davies. Loved brother and brother-inlaw of Michelle and Tae Oh Kim.

Very special Uncle of Tasmyn, Aisha and Leo. A private family service has been held. There will be an informal gathering at St John’s Hall on Saturday, May 4 at Kakamutu Road, Ōtorohanga. 11am to 4pm. To give friends the opportunity to share memories and stories of their connections with Aaron and family.

DONALDSON,

Bryan Desmond: Sergeant 463095. 11/12/193515/04/2024

After a long illness

Bryan Desmond

Donaldson aged 88 passed away on April 15, while in Warrick Hospital. Loved husband to Audrey, father to Ashley, Adrian and Neville. Grandfather and great grandfather to many. The funeral service was held on Tuesday, April 23 but will be available to view for up to 90 days atburstows.com.au/ tributes-centre

All correspondence can be sent to 33 Norman St, Clifton, QLD, 4361, Australia

A very big thank you to the honest person that handed in my card wallet at the warehouse late Saturday afternoon. Carol Burmester. Public

Any inquiries please email mangapapab2@gmail.com.

No objection to the renewal of a licence may be made in relation to a matter other than a matter specified in Section 131 of the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012

This is the second publication of this notice. This notice was first published on April 18, 2024.

From the team at Lamb Bain Laubscher Limited, a big congratulations to Sam Laubscher on reaching the milestone of being a lawyer in Te Kuiti for 30 years.

To Sam and Linda, thank you for being who you are and always going that extra mile when needed.

We could not ask for a better LEADER.

Use the link below to read our paper online

https://kingcountrynews.partica. co.nz/king-country-news/

Church Notices

St. Barnabas Church Aria

Centennial service scheduled for Sunday, April 28 is cancelled until further notice.