King Country
Well, well, well…
Well, well, well…
By Andy Campbell
Mayors Max Baxter and John Robertson have suggested
Prime Minister Chris Luxon’s new “war on council waste” won’t impact on them.
And they have vented their frustration at the different messages councils get from on high from different governments.
Luxon’s address to the Local Government New Zealand conference last week drew groans as he called on councils to “rein in the fantasies” and spending on the nice-to-haves.
The Prime Minister said the government would scrap the four wellbeing provisions in the Loal Government Act which relate to social, economic, environmental and cultural wellbeing.
Ōtorohanga mayor Max Baxter was unimpressed.
“We will just carry on doing what we are doing. Ōtorohanga never splurged out on extravagant expenditure at any point. And we will continue to carry on the same.
“A lot of what he said you could take as being accurate, but that’s not the way to deliver it,” Baxter said.
And he suggested “he’s got a title but he’s not showing leadership”.
Waitomo mayor John Robertson said every time a Labour led government was elected, they added the wellbeings, and the next National led government would then take them out.
“Council has never received funding to expand from core
business, despite the four wellbeings getting put in,” he said. “I don’t think it will make a lot of difference to rural councils, it’s just core business and we don’t have the funding to do other things.”
“Leadership is about empowering those (councils) and bringing them with you,” Baxter said. “…so if you think local government is not working suggest ways central government and local government can work together to make for a better New Zealand.
“Going off at local government is not the best way to get results.”
The Prime Minister’s finger was more pointed at Wellington where the council has built a $180 million ratepayer funded events centre,
Baxter believed.
“He pointed the finger clearly at Tākina the event centre in Wellington.”
“If you look at each of those [wellbeings] individually – Economic? Of course we have to be a player in economic. Environmental? Of course we do. It’s part of what we do as part of the Treaty of Waitangi, and what we have to do with regional councils. Social? What do you think Mayors’ Task Force For Jobs is? Cultural? Again our obligations are under the Treaty of Waitangi.
“I’m sorry, it’s blowing hot air to a number of levels.”
“I would be very interested if he came to Ōtorohanga what he would tell us to stop doing. I think he would really struggle.”
The clash between local and central government continues a rift which widened under the previous government when council complained they were being asked to take on more work.
Under Labour councils were given Three Waters as an option which would have a major impact on their organisation – and the National led government has now undone the power councils were given to form Māori wards without the risk of a veto from the electorate. • See further stories Page 5.
The King Country Rams return to Te Kūiti on Saturday for a “derby” clash with the unbeaten Thames Valley Swamp Foxes – while further north Ōtorohanga hosts a football title decider.
Football comes first – as Hamilton’s Northern United takes on Ōtorohanga at 3pm in a match which will determine the WaiBop League One title.
Then, to cap off a day of rugby at Te Kūiti’s Rugby Park, the Rams aim to follow up last week’s win in Buller in a match starting at
5.30pm. Check out rugby scribe Norris Woodbine’s new weekly column on Page 7 today.
Northern lead the WaiBop football competition by a point - so it will be win or bust for the free scoring hosts at Ōtorohanga Domain.
The clash was postponed from earlier in the season because of Covid, and is now in essence
a grand final, club spokesperson Cheyne Waldron said.
It is win or bust for the hosts.
Bulk Lines Limited Ōtorohanga rebuilt their squad during the year, welcoming twins Jackson and Logan Allen from rivals Tokoroa while Aaron Smith stepped up to take over the vacant goalkeeping role.
The team has some prolific scorers - brothers Waikato and Tawhiri Ball and Mason Apperley are among the leading scorers in the league and the team has netted 82 times in 17 outings –easily the best return in the competition. Saturday’s squad for the home clash at Ōtorohanga is Aaron Smith, Jackson Allen, Grayson Fortis, Mason Apperley, Michael Jones, Tawhiri Ball, Stephen Kapa, Bailey Croad, Jamie Walker, Tom Barton, Waikato Ball, Jacob O’Brien, Logan Allen and Noah Brownlie.
John Appleton’s team have plenty of daffodils ready for sale tomorrow.
Many were picked from Ian and Heather Wilson’s farm at Rangitoto and trimmed and sorted into bunches.
The sorters and trimmers are largely the team leaders who organise the street stalls that sell them for $10 a bunch as the year’s major fund raiser for the Cancer Society.
Otorohanga has five teams of daffodil sellers with retailers rotated throughout the day.
“They each run their own booth, their own staff, they are absolutely brilliant,” Appleton said.
About 25 volunteers are involved in the retail side of Ōtorohanga’s daffodil day.
Cancer Society Waikato/Bay of Plenty chief executive Helen Carter says it’s ‘mission critical’ as cancer diagnoses climb and a higher proportion of those diagnosed seek the charity’s support than ever before.
One in three New Zealanders will receive
By Sigrid Christiansen
Mamma Mia! Here we go again: there’s another man drought in the arts scene.
In a message echoing a recent dilemma faced by the Waitomo Caves Choir, more guys are again needed – this time at the Te Kūiti Little Theatre, who will be staging a production of the hit musical based around ABBA songs, in November.
Saturday saw the last of three auditions, and most of the other parts have been cast, director Allan Marsden said.
He recommends the theatre experience to other blokes.
“I used to be a rep rugby player, and the
two things are really similar: there’s the training, the warm-up, the atmosphere in the dressing room beforehand.
“In rugby you look after each other on the field, and it’s the same when you’re doing a play. You work together, and it’s a similar buzz.”
“I’ve seen people’s lives change with theatre, as with sport,” he said.
“The audience will know all the songs, and it will be a full experience from the moment they walk in the door.
“It’s a popular fantasy: a few weeks on a Greek island, drinking ouzo by a beautiful beach. The story’s got it all – lost love, romance, it’s loads of fun.”
Legendary Te Kuiti is launching a photography competition, and winning entries will be printed onto large boards to dress up vacant shop windows.
The theme of the competition is The Unseen Te Kuiti.
“We wanted to keep the focus on our area and encourage participants to engage and connect with their surroundings and within their own community to find what they would consider as unseen and shine a light on it,”
LTK Chairperson Andy Connors said.
His organisation advocates for Te Kūiti businesses.
“Unseen Te Kuiti can be interpreted in many ways, and we believe it will allow people space to express their story and relationship with Te Kuiti through their photography.”
The competition opens on Sunday is open to all ages and has two entry categories - 17 and under and open. It runs to the end of October and winners will be announced in late November.
a cancer diagnosis in their lifetime and the Society is reaching about a quarter of these people across the Waikato and Bay of Plenty regions – which covers the central North Island down to Taumarunui.
When I came to live in Te Kūiti 20 years ago I was so impressed with the lovely clean wide brick footpaths running through the town. It was such a pleasure to go shopping as I had come from another district further up the line where the footpaths were concrete and kind of stained and munted.
These days as I make my way past the snot, sludge, and spit left by braindead morons, I’ve noticed how slimy the footpath surface has become.
A couple of people I know have slipped and fallen and severely injured themselves. The tiles have also become uneven in places, and I too have tripped up a few times and had to hobble home looking like a drunk woman. My friend has a trolley which now needs larger wheels due to the fact that the ones she has on it now get stuck in crevices or lumpy parts of the walkways.
Complaints to our debt-ridden council go nowhere due to the debt they have run up. Does the ratepayers’ money cover having the footpaths cleaned or water blasted from time to time?
Dare I say, it is becoming a health and safety issue. Maybe council could take a lesson from a well-known Asian man who advises “Just spray and walk away” – or are our councillors still trying to work out what their last meeting was about? I still love our footpaths but this does bear thinking about.
A Graham Te Kūiti.
• WINZ estimates
Batteries
By Paul Charman
Hangatiki’s big apple, a landmark dating back to the 1990s, seems to be going bad.
The apple towering over SH3 is visibly deteriorating, with rust, moss and graffiti right across its red skin.
Paint at the top of the apple appears to be peeling and stained, while the base has been extensively tagged.
Piopio resident Karen Barrett has been driving past the landmark “for a long time” and last week decided to do something.
After failing to get a response from Tourist Holdings Corporation Holdings NZ, which owns the monument and the adjacent Waitomo
Homestead/Big Apple Café, Barrett launched an online petition to get the landmark spruced up.
The response was 139 “signatures” as this went to press, and sentiments being expressed echoed Barrett’s concerns.
“The Big Apple is more like a rotten apple,” said Shirley Jones.
“This is a legendary icon,” added Ruth Dawbur.
“I wouldn’t want to stop there; surely it would be good for their business to keep it in good condition,” said Emily Jean.
Barrett says the unmissable sculpture has become far from a welcoming site for the tourists.
“It seems we need to ask THC to give the apple some
TLC before it turns rotten”. Tourism Holdings purchased and refurbished the restaurant in 2015, renaming it Waitomo Caves Homestead.
Earlier, Pieter and Betsy Straalen bought a 55ha town supply dairy farm adjacent to the monument in 1966 and began planting an orchard there in 1974. The orchard became the family’s main income earner and land was eventually purchased to build the 1620 square metre Big Apple Restaurant in 1994.
Arnold and Kim van Straalen purchased the business in 2003 and sold it to Fijian hoteliers Anil and Rosie Sharma in 2012.
The News has approached Tourism Holdings for comment.
By Paul Charman
Several large-scale power users in Te Kūiti and Ōtorohanga insulated themselves against power prices rises by signing contracts when prices were lower.
Nigel Wilshier, a part owner of OTC Timber, Ōtorohanga, said his company is in the second year of a two-year electricity contract.
“If we were on a spot price contract system we would also be in a bit of trouble. What we tend to do is take out contracts with our suppliers that give us fixed pricing,” he said.
His comments came as unsustainable electricity prices were blamed by a timber products company which has plans to close its doors in the Ruapehu district with the loss of more than 230 jobs.
The plight of some companies prompted central North Island mayors to plead with the Government to save Winstone Pulp International’s Karioi Pulpmill and Tangiwai Sawmills.
Wholesale electricity prices have risen hundreds of percentage points in just a few years, from around $100 per megawatt hour (MWh) in
December 2021 to an average of $700 by the beginning of this month.
Associate Energy Minister Shane Jones has accused the big power companies of profiteering and has sought advice on potential regulatory interventions.
The country’s hydro lakes being at their lowest levels for 90 years for this time of year has contributed to the crisis. But Jones says the big power companies have held off building already consented new generation plants, knowing they can potentially make more money in times of short supply.
“What we are hoping for is that there is some stabilisation before our contract runs out, which will be either late this year or early into the new year,” Wilshier told The News. “We are looking at them with a little bit of trepidation.
“It doesn’t seem right that people can be suddenly dropped into the spot price scenario where the price can spike 12-15 times over what the regular price was. In the case of energy intensive operations, it can literally put you out of business.”
OTC had been indirectly affected, as its major fibre supplier - Donnelly
Sawmillers of Reporoa - had been forced to cut production for two weeks.
It made a difference of over $200,000 a month in increased power costs.
Mike Ramsay, plant manager at Crusader Meats, said his company negotiated a three-year electricity contract at the beginning of last year.
“We always have a three-yearcontract – we tender it out and lock it in. It’s something that we have done for a long time.
However, he agreed that more scrutiny of the big electricity companies was warranted.
“When they are posting the profits, they are making (in the middle of a crisis) you know it’s needed. When it becomes too expensive for companies employing local people to carry on something’s got to change. I don’t think it’s for the Government to prop up individual businesses. It’s probably more around regulation on what these electricity companies should be allowed to charge.”
Steve Allen production manager at Universal Beef Packers said the company was in the middle of a contracted price for five years.
We want to express our sincere gratitude to all the residents at Windsor Court, Elizabeth Place, and Rosamond Terrace who took the time to engage with our Council Pop-up Team in recent weeks. It was truly a pleasure to meet with you, enjoy some delicious soup and freshly baked scones, and distribute our goody bags!
Your feedback is incredibly valuable to us as we continuously work to improve our services and better meet your needs as tenants. We hope our visit provided you with an opportunity to share your thoughts and ideas in a relaxed and friendly setting. If you haven’t had a chance to complete our annual survey yet, and would like to, please give our team a call. The survey is crucial in helping us understand what we’re doing well and where we can enhance our services.
Thank you once again for your ongoing support and valuable feedback. We look forward to continuing to serve you and make positive changes based on what we’ve heard.
As of 1st August 2024, dog registrations are overdue and may incur a late registration fee of 50%. You may also be issued with an infringement notice and a fine of $300. You can pay at the council office or by visiting our website www.otodc.govt.nz
Talk to us if you’re having difficulty paying - phone us on 07 873 4000 or email info@otodc.govt.nz
As part of our work in Community Development, Council are investigating new ways to work with and empower rangatahi. Our current group of focus is Ōtorohanga College.
The Curious Sponge Project is a new annual youth programme which mentors a group of five young people to understand and discuss current issues by attending national youth conferences.
Council staff then support those team members to identify and design a public facing project for our district as their way of giving back.
The 2024 team comprises of; Kaelis Campbell, Taylah Montgomery, Dequan Atarangiata, Kaia Turner and Samiah Grey and together they are….“Whakaaro Marama – The Clear Thinkers”.
We are excited to be working with these amazing young leaders and will be updating you on the teams project as it unfolds – watch this space!
For the full story check it out on our website www.otodc.govt.nz/ latest-news/article/304/whakaaro-marama-the-clear-thinkers
If you have not received your Rates invoice by now, please contact our friendly Customer Experience Team on info@otodc.govt.nz or phone on 0800 734 000 Rates Instalment 1 is for 1st July 2024 to 31st December 2024 and is due 30th August 2024
To ensure your payments go to the correct Rates account, please reference as:
Particulars: Surname, Initial
Code: RATES
Reference: Valuation number – exclude first 0 if not enough spaces in field.
If you are making a payment for Water, please reference:
Particulars:Surname, Initial Code: WATER
Reference: Water Account number - different than Rates (8 numbers on right of invoice)
Rates Rebates for the 2024-2025 Rating year are now open and will close next year in June.
To find out if you are eligible for a Rates Rebate, please visit the website at www.govt.nz/rates-rebates or call our friendly Customer Experience team on 0800 734 000 to discuss.
26th–30th August 2024 & 2nd–6th September
No booking is required—just drop in for assistance with your digital devices.
We can help with
• Tech help with your smartphone or tablet
• Support with your health app
Tips for staying safe online
DORA Te Waka Matihiko Hauora, a mobile learning centre, is currently in the Ōtorohanga District until September 6, to help residents access their health records online. The initiative will guide locals in using online health portals like Manage My Health or My Indici 2.0. These platforms enable users to view their medical records, order prescriptions and book appointments with GPs.
This visit highlights the importance of digital health literacy, ensuring that no one is left behind as the healthcare industry increasingly adopts technology. Local library and pop-up staff will provide on-site training, and those who miss DORA’s visit can still access ongoing support from council staff.
See more: www.otodc.govt.nz/latest-news/article/299/ dora-digital-on-road-access-on-tour-in-otorohanga
Community grants close Saturday 31st August 2024 for any enquiries contact grants@otodc.govt.nz
• Creative Communities
• Rural Sport Travel
• Ōtorohanga District Community Grant
Ōtorohanga
Kāwhia
Mauri Ora e te Iwi! Last month, Mysteeq went on her way to the Tuia I Roto wānanga, at Waikawa Marae, near Picton. The team welcomed her back, safe and well, from her wananga and thought we would give her some time to settle back in at home and digest all that Matauranga Māori.
As she shared her experience you could feel the enthusiasm in her words. The cold mornings would kick off with jump jam to warm up the tinana (body), followed by warming the puku (stomach) with a delicious breakfast prepared by the dedicated tuakana (experienced rangatahi).
After fuelling the ranagatahi with kai. the days featured meaningful sharing sessions where rangatahi delved deep into personal and collective reflections of “wanting to help more, to help kids in general, like youth work”, Mysteeq says.
“My favourite part was getting to talk about myself, Roto is all about opening up, to share your story, to share my story, my full story” Mysteeq and co visited the historic Te Rae o Karaka Point. They listened to enlightening kōrero about the migration from Taranaki to Waikawa and heard stories that shared the significance of the location. The group then enjoyed a peaceful walk along the beautiful beach, connecting with the land and each other.
Mysteeq returned from the wānanga feeling inspired, connected and ready to apply the lessons learned to her next journey and community.
By Paul Charman
Newly promoted sergeant Gary Anderson, who has spent recent years based out of Hamilton as a roading officer, has been appointed as the senior officer at Te Kūiti. Anderson was in the front line working out of the Te Kūiti station between 2007 and 2017 but went onto highway patrol work about seven years ago.
He returned to Te Kūiti at the beginning of this year.
The appointment announced last week ends a period in which acting sergeants have been in charge at Te Kūiti following the retirement of long-serving Craig Lindstrom in 2023.
“For me it just feels like a home coming considering the years as I have previously lived in town,” Anderson said.
“It’s a wonderful community and I’ve enjoyed watching it grow over the years. It’s got wonderful people and there are some awesome businesses here too. I’m not the only one to have concluded it’s a great place to both live and work.”
He said links forged between townsfolk and police had always been strong.
“During my time I’ve been able to get to know and establish relationships with many members of the public plus the business owners. This (interaction) goes a long way towards helping us serve the community better. People are always having a little chat; there’s useful information to be received simply by having a chat.”
Anderson was asked about the public meetings held in Te Kūiti last year in which residents complained about unruly dirt bike riders and boy racers causing a nuisance.
“The dirt bike riders are a national problem. It’s a trend being seen in many towns and there is a real copycat factor at work as some individuals seek to emulate what goes on elsewhere.”
As for car incidents, he considered the boy racer gathering in Hamilton earlier this month was atrocious.
“This has had some feedback into our community here but we’re hoping its now on the wane.”
How much work was generated by the travelling public on SH3?
“We do get an influx over the weekends, especially during the winter with people on their way to the skifields. But traffic volumes dropped off a lot after Covid and have probably not risen to pre-Covid levels. Perhaps its due to there being less to spend on road trips due to the cost of living.
“With SH1 now repaired and re-aligned quite a bit of pressure has been taken off our state highways; we have noticed a lot more Auckland ski traffic seems to be going toward Taupō to access the mountain. Fridays, Sundays and especially long weekends are always going to be busy for us. You’ll see a greater police presence during those times due to greater traffic flows.”
He said there was more than one approach to policing, especially in rural areas.
“If somebody has done something wrong, we are definitely going to hold them to account. But sometimes this can involve having a conversation with somebody. Sometimes interaction with a police office is enough to deter somebody from doing something again, where possible it’s certainly the approach I prefer.”
Ōtorohanga, Waitomo, Waipā, and Taupō district councils have backed planning for a regional water entity under the Waikato Water Done Well banner.
The regional version of the government’s water direction “Local Water Done Well” is the initiative of the Waikato mayoral forum which includes council and iwi leaders.
It is planned to establish a new entity to provide services to participating councils and develop a regulated water services entity.
In the first stage a council like Ōtorohanga would keep most of its water operations inhouse while transitioning capital work, asset management and some other functions to the new entity. Unlike the previous Three Waters plan, participating councils can withdraw at any time, though ongoing investment will be required once an agreement is reached.
A non-binding heads of agreement is expected to be signed later this year by the chief executives of the joining councils.
Saturday, August 31
King Country Rams vs Thames Valley – 5.30pm
Big Horns vs Thames Valley Dev - 3pm
KC U18s vs Thames Valley – 1pm
KC U16s vs Thames Valley – 1pm
All games at Rugby Park, Te Kuiti
KCSS Girls vs Taranaki – 1pm Clifton Trailblazers vs Wairarapa Bush 1pm – Turangi
By Sigrid Christiansen
Sixth in the world – that’s the result for the crew featuring King Country pair Mia Wehi and Kōtuku Waho, who raced at the waka ama world sprint championships in Hilo, Hawaii this week.
They represented the Waikato Dragon Boat and Waka Ama Association, which trains in Kirikiriroa and Raglan.
The teens, from Te Kūiti and Ōtorohanga respectively, paddled as part of the V6 waka ama crew which finished sixth over 500 metres in their J16 age category on Sunday.
Ōtorohanga District Council has decided to keep its Māori ward for next year’s elections.
The decision – mirrored by neighbours Waipā this week - will prompt a binding poll where all voters will be asked if the wards should stay. The previous government removed the electorate’s power of veto.
Ōtorohanga has two Māori ward councillors - and electors in the ward are voters on the Māori roll. The elected councillors in the Rangiātea Māori Ward are Jaimee Tamaki and Roy Willison.
Waitomo does not have a Māori ward.
The coalition Government has introduced legislation which requires local bodies to secure the approval of their electorates to have Māori wards, and the results of the polls will impact on the 2028 election.
“By keeping the ward, we ensure that Māori perspectives continue to play a crucial role in our governance,” Mayor Max Baxter said.
“Our history of collaboration with Māori is a source of great pride, and we are dedicated to upholding this tradition for the benefit of all our residents.”
King Arthur’s colourful kingdom came alive last Thursday when Āria school put on their annual production: “What a Knight,”
top of the classroom.
New Zealand Wool Board and got to travel the world to ply his skills.
The musical comedy set in Camelot Castle, ended on a high note with the sword “Excalibur” being pulled from a scone… pronounced to rhyme with stone.
Principal Pam Voyce was pleased.
“The kids all stepped up. They love it. And it’s cool to see how different children excelled, not necessarily those who are
In 2002, Mark was offered the opportunity to own his contracting business which he grabbed with both hands. He
“The performing arts give a whole new dimension to their learning,” she said.
The audience included parents, grandparents, and around 50 students from the area’s primary schools, from as far as Benneydale/Maniati.
“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
One delighted guest was former teacher Sarah O’ConnorTownshend, a recent returnee to the King Country after four years in Amsterdam, in the Netherlands.
He has been actively involved in the NZ Shearing Contractors Association since 2003 and was elected its president
In the role, he has worked closely with Employers and Manufacturers Association and employment lawyers regarding employment agreements and
“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
“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
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 Mark considers his main achievement at Barrowcliffe Shearing as being the development of young people through
“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.
Sub Union rugby is alive and kicking locally judging by the outstanding game on display at Te Kūiti High School last Saturday between The Maniapoto Marauders and Central Bay of Plenty from Rotorua.
When the two sides put away their kicking boots and chose to give the ball some attacking air the sizeable crowd at the match were swept up into the style of entertaining rugby action. creating a buoyant atmosphere.
With the ground in superb condition and a tricky breeze swirling around the field the local side began the game in attacking mode.
The first 12 minutes belonged to their first five Delane Bell whose deceptive running saw Alex Pitts-Brown and Gabriell Simpson score tries with Ben Hedley slotting a conversion for a 12–0 lead.
The visitors gradually recovered from the shell shock and the game settled into a pattern where defence dominated and some huge hits ensued where Jaide Barlow, Isaac Wana and
Kees Muller stood tall in the loose while John Siaosi, Dave Woolston and Zyla Hatu-Pratt pummelled their larger opposition.
Inevitably after soaking up all the pressure the defence cracked and two late tries saw the sides enter half time locked at 12–12.
The Maniapoto side came out of the blocks in the second half like men possessed and big prop Siaosi surged in an irrepressible charge crossing for a try.
The team surged back onto attack and the diminutive Simpson latched onto a wayward pass and showing extreme pace outstripped several defenders in a 40-metre dash to the corner and the locals had a 22–12 lead.
Central Bay then reverted to their strength and utilised their big forward pack and began to dominate field position slowly whittling away the lead and hitting the front for the first time with five minutes to go 27-22.
At times in a rugby match a star is born and youngster Simpson, still eligible for Under 19’s,
The Te Kūiti bowls team of Peter Lange, Kevin Higgins and Steve Woods took the honours in Kihikihi’s last winter tournament.
It was a wonderful conclusion to what has been a very successful and well run Winter Programme for the relatively small club. The tournaments was played in fine weather and drew a strong field of bowlers from throughout the Waikato and the King Country.
Te Kūiti’s win was achieved with 4 wins, 23 ends and 50 points. They were closely followed by the Beerescourt Team of Wayne Wenham, Barry Chapman and Robin Sarbutt with 4 wins, 23 ends and 49 points.
Third place went to the Te Awamutu Team of Terry Osment, Lynda Bennett and Chris Osment with 4 Wins, 19 ends and 40 points.
In fourth place, the best of the 3 winners, were the Kihikihi Team of Ken Hancock, Janice Johnson and George de Bruyn.
Sigrid Christiansen
Te Kūiti High School has as many soccer players as the bigger schools have teams, or thereabouts, says coach and teacher Ram Chetty.
So his first XI side of 16 boys are the underdogs at their upcoming national contest, the National Secondary Schools Soccer Tournament in New Plymouth, running from September 2 to 6.
On paper that national competition is aimed at smaller schools, but many are still far larger than Te Kūiti, such as Hamilton Boys and the hosts, New Plymouth Boys, he said.
But he said it’s well worth the side going for the learning, the experience and the chance to play against unfamiliar teams.
Chetty has “just started” his work with the young talent, as he had done in his previous role, at Ōtorohanga college.
set the day alight when put into a gap by a Sam Trangmar pass deep in his own 22 and clapped on the after burners before sprinting about 90 metres for a magnificent touch down.
Waikato referee Grant Cotteral, who did a great job and allowed play to flow, blew the final whistle and brought the curtain down with both sides happy.
Scoring five tries each was testament to the style of entertaining rugby and the drawn scoreline was enough to see the CBOP side advance to the Peace Cup final next week.
King Country Rams went on the rampage
Police attended three family harm incidents.
August 19: At 9am a man threatened a staff member as he left Supervalue in Rora St. The man had been stopped and spoken to on suspicion of shoplifting. Inquiries to locate and arrest him are continuing.
At about 3.55pm an Auckland police helicopter crew visiting the area observed a vehicle being driven dangerously along SH39. It was seen speeding and doing burnouts at various intersections. After the driver parked the vehicle at a Honikiwi property, a ground crew went out and arrested him. He was charged with dangerous driving, sustained loss of traction and possession of cannabis. The vehicle was impounded.
Between about 8pm and 11.30pm that day a Nissan Tiida was taken from outside a Main North Rd address. The vehicle was located the next day parked behind the Te Awamutu Caltex Station.
August 23: At 11.20am a man walked into ITM, Limestone Dr, and stole a nailgun valued at $1100. Inquiries are underway to locate him.
August 24: At 9.30am police said a single vehicle crashed in wet conditions on Kāwhia Rd. There were no injuries. They were then called out at about 4pm following reports that neighbours on Ngahape Rd had been speaking threateningly to one-another. Police gave “prevention advice” to the people involved.
Police attended four family harm incidents and investigated two reports of wilful damage at local houses.
Police are investigating a burglary which took place at a Ngaronga St address between August
in Westport on Saturday and made a real statement in The Heartland Championship with a 54-27 victory on the road.
The news was not so good for the Bighorns or Trailblazers who suffered big losses to Whanganui sides respectively.
With their season back on track there will be much anticipation around The Rams game here in Te Kūiti on Saturday against old foes and currently undefeated Thames Valley.
The match has a late kick off and will be a first as the game will be played under the recently installed new lights.
12 and August 22. Building equipment was targeted and taken from the house, which was being renovated over that period.
August 19: At 12.10pm a group of seven to eight men were involved in a disorder incident on Craig Terrace.
August 20: A burglary was reported at a bar on King St East at 12.10am. Alcohol and frozen food was reported to have been taken. At 11am a vehicle fled from police as a patrol car drove into Duke St. Police had been attending another incident at the time and had not been looking for the vehicle.
August 21: At about midday a woman was punched by another woman in an unprovoked attack at the carpark outside Supervalue in Rora St. The woman confronted her victim, then punched her in the face before walking off. Police believe the parties were not known to each other. The victim suffered bruising. Video of the incident is being reviewed.
August 22: At 11.57 am a man entered The Warehouse took clothing and left without paying. Police are following up on inquiries.
On August 22 or 23, a ewe was killed and butchered at a rural property on Te Waitere Rd, Taharoa. On the same road, between August 17 and August 19, two strainer posts were stolen from cattle yards on a forestry block.
August 21: A resident reported that an attempt was made to scam them by a caller who tried to get them to purchase Prezzy cards.
Between August 19 and 23 police attended two family harm incidents.
August 24: A 2011 Ford Ranger was stolen from an address on SH30, at Kopaki. It has not been recovered.
Discover our charming one- and two-bedroom cottages at Cambridge Resthaven, where you can enjoy a vibrant community atmosphere in the heart of our retirement village.
These classic brick cottages, built in the 1970s and 1980s, are available to occupy under an Occupation Right Agreement (ORA) basis, starting from $360,000. There is 50/50 shared capital gain benefit if the ORA value has increased when you leave.
Sandra Fairhurst 07 827
For King Country residents who are going through cancer treatment, the Waikato Hospital becomes, as of necessity, a secondary home away from home.
And for many, this means the Cancer Society’s Lion’s Lodge, the brain child of a former Katikati Lion who lost his stepson to cancer in the 1990s, is where they will stay while receiving treatment such as radiation and at times, chemotherapy.
In the past year, the lodge has experienced a large surge in the requirement of its services, providing 16,025 bed nights to people from the Waikato and Bay of Plenty and further afield.
Anita Schurmann, a resident
of Kawhia, was one of those who stayed at the Lodge while being treated for breast cancer, and says she found it to be a home away from home.
“It’s beautiful here. I was blown away when I came.
“The staff and the people here are amazing, and it’s so nice to talk to people about their journeys,” she says.
“I was not expecting that level of support. Even though I’m longing to get back home, when I’m here I’m just like, I love this place, it’s just so peaceful.”
For Anita, as for many others, the ability not to have to try to travel back and forward for treatment means their recovery time is
119 Maniapoto St Ōtorohanga 07 873 7007
markedly helped.
But all this is being backed by a massive increase – more than 154% in the past year - of new clients the Cancer Society is now actively supporting.
“We are expecting to see demand for our services grow,” says Dr Heather Connolly, who has recently been appointed the Cancer Society’s Head of Philanthropy.
“Cancer currently affects one in three New Zealanders and modelling shows that cancer rates will double by 2040.
“But we need support to be there for them. We are urging the public to get behind us any way they can this month as we approach Daffodil Day on August 30.”
“We are putting the call out for the community to back us by donating, holding a fundraiser or volunteering on a
street collection site.
Heather says that a cancer diagnosis is life-changing and that accessing the Cancer Society’s free services can make a noticeable difference to someone’s cancer journey.
“There’s a lot of uncertainty and for some there is fear. Being able to lean on one of our nurses for guidance and support can help relieve some of that stress,” she says.
“By taking someone to their treatment or giving them the lodge to stay at in Hamilton, we can alleviate some of the financial burden, giving them time to focus on their healing.”
The Cancer Society is encouraging volunteers, businesses and schools to sign up on their website at daffodilday.org.nz or to contact fundraising@cancersociety.org.nz
Your body is a complex piece of biological engineering.
As such, it stands to reason the more complex something is, the more can go wrong with it.
It’s not surprising then, that there are more than 200 different types of cancer that can affect virtually every part of the human body, no matter how old (or young), ethnicity, gender, or how much money you might have in the bank.
Every day, 74 New Zealanders hear the words, “You have cancer” and their life and that of their loved oneschanges forever.
Cancer is not just a disease; for many it is a way of life for three or four years or more.
For some, it is the final stage within a matter of weeks.
Many cancers can be cured if caught early enough.
Some unfortunately are still the focus
of science medical research in trying to find a cure.
As well as providing funding for support for those going through this life-changing disease and all its forms, the Cancer Society also provides funding for ground-breaking research to help reduce the impact and incidence of cancer for future generations.
It is also a strong lobby group in trying to ensure the Government knows of new medicines that can if not cure patients, prolong their lives with a good quality of life.
The Cancer Society is not government funded and relies entirely on the support of communities to ensure the one in three Kiwis who have cancer right now, do not face it alone.
Please give generously when you see a street collector this Daffodil Day. Or, you can choose to donate online by visiting daffodilday.org.nz.
The Cancer Society Waikato/ Bay of Plenty has supported thousands of people with cancer in our region during the past financial year, thanks to the overwhelming generosity of the communities within it.
Some of this includes:
11,525 - the number of times supportive care nurses were there to provide advice, information, advocacy and support to someone with cancer or their whānau.
113,950 kilometres driven by volunteers transporting people to treatment
2,574 the number guests at the Cancer Society’s Lions Lodge
2,556 the number of new clients offered support
Your generous donation will
help make a difference for people with cancer – with some examples below:
$24 can help drive a patient to and from treatment
$46 can help train specialist staff for the 0800 CANCER helpline
$107 can help fund a home visit from a cancer support team
$180 can help cover costs of a night stay at the Cancer Society’s Lions Lodge so someone can attend treatment in a hospital far from home.
Funds raised during Daffodil Day help provide support services for people with cancer, fund ground-breaking research and deliver innovative health promotion programmes.
Katrina Christison
Tidy Gardens
Spring is just around the corner and the spring bulbs and flowering trees are bursting into flower!
Fruit trees – As your fruit tree buds begin to swell, now is the ideal time to apply a copper spray. Be sure to do this before any pink blossoms emerge, as copper can be toxic to bees once the flowers are open.
Pay special attention to covering every crevice where bacteria or fungus might be hiding, ensuring your trees stay healthy and strong throughout the season.
New season fruit trees and ornamentals have arrived at our local garden centers, making it the perfect time to start planting. If you’re considering adding some to your garden, now is the time to explore what’s available. For those with limited space, consider espaliering fruit trees against a wall or fence, or choose compact varieties like ballerina apple trees, or the range of mini peaches & nectarines.
A good gardening job for rainy days is cleaning and sharpening tools
Secateurs — it’s a simple process: Spray your tools with CRC and use fine sandpaper to remove any sap and dirt buildup. Wipe them clean with a rag. Apply oil to a sharpening stone (available at Mitre 10) and sharpen only the angled side of the blade. You should only need to run the stone over the blade
2-3 times. You’ll know they’re sharp when you hear the crisp snip sound, like that of sharp scissors. Finally, apply a bit of oil to the central pivot and the spring to improve movement and reduce stiffness.
Shovels, Spades, and Hoes: After each use, rinse off any soil and debris, and let the tools dry completely. For stubborn dirt, use a stiff brush. Once clean, check the edges—sharpening them with a file will make digging and cutting much easier. Wipe the metal parts with an oily rag to prevent rust.
Rakes and Forks: Remove any tangled grass or dirt from the tines, and inspect for bent prongs. If necessary, straighten them with pliers. Like with shovels, wiping them down with a light coat of oil will protect against rust.
Pruners and Loppers: Besides cleaning and sharpening the blades, pay attention to the joints and moving parts. Regularly applying oil to these areas will keep them working smoothly. Also, inspect the blades for nicks and sharpen them as needed.
Hand Tools: Smaller tools like trowels, hand forks, and weeders can also benefit from a good cleaning. Scrub off soil with a brush, rinse, and dry thoroughly. For wooden handles, a light sanding followed by a coat of linseed oil will prevent them from splintering and keep them in good condition.
Regular maintenance not only prolongs the life of your tools but also makes your gardening tasks easier and more enjoyable.
Chiropractors, like Dr Scott Mouat from King Country Chiropractic, provide treatment/healthcare that can not only help people with problems like back pain, neck pain, headaches and joint sti ness, but also to help aid in general health, wellbeing and function.
Scott opened the practice in 2008 and says chiropractic care focuses on the relationship between your spine and nervous system (the brain, spinal cord, and nerves exiting the spine) and how that relationship a ects the restoration and preservation of health and well-being.
Chiropractors take a detailed health history in the same way as other health care providers. They then do an exam to look at such things as: muscle strength versus weakness, posture in di erent positions,
Dr. Scott Mouat (B.Chiro) Chiropractor
Dr. Alana Sherman (B. Chiro) Chiropractor
spinal range of motion, and structural problems. They also do standard nervous system and orthopedic tests common to all medical professions.
“Whether you are healthy and want to ensure you maintain your current state of wellness, or you are feeling sore or unwell, we can help you. And if you have never been to a chiropractor before, we encourage you to give this di erent approach to health care a go,” Scott says.
From children to the elderly, the services King Country Chiropractic at 27a Maniapoto St, Otorohanga are designed to create and promote wellbeing in your body without the need for surgical intervention.
The clinic is open Monday, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, with Tuesday’s clinic in Taumarunui.
flowers, as unique and individual as you.
PROPERTY YOUR REAL ESTATE GUIDE TO THE KING COUNTRY
It isn’t often a property like this becomes available. This is a great opportunity to combine work with coastal living.
This freehold property has a two bedroom owner/ manager’s accommodation with open plan living and an office attached; seven cabins; three powered caravan sites; 4-5 unpowered tent sites; 29 permanent caravans on powered sites (individually owned); ablution block; 9x8 shed (2 bays plus workshop).
A list of chattels and financials is available to serious potential purchasers.
Kawhia is a popular fishing destination on the west
coast of the north island. The township has all the essential services covered with a general store, garage, cafe, restaurant, hotel, school, doctors, ambulance and fire station.
For those bigger items Otorohanga, Te Awamutu and Hamilton are all approx one hour’s drive away through scenic country.
This would be a great husband and wife run business, perhaps a semi-retired couple or retired farmers who still want something to occupy their days.
Contact Julie today for more information on this fantastic opportunity.
With
Call
renovated home sits on a generous section of three 822m² titles, set back from the road with large bay windows overlooking the expansive lawn area.
Step inside to discover a spacious interior featuring a large entrance way leading to the inviting living spaces. The property boasts three double-sized bedrooms filled with natural light. The modern bathroom adds a touch of luxury, complementing the neutral tones used throughout.
A great location offering space and easy maintenance on a flat section, handy to town.
1811 Ōtewā Road
Pinnacle Lifestyle on Ōtewā Modern, 2008 built home, extensive five-bedroom, three-bathroom dwelling including a 50m² internal access garage and two lounges with a designer kitchen, all pitched under the 2.7m stud. 7.3ha (effective) fertile flat land, highly maintained infrastructure, with many of the improvements classed as “Near New." Including new cattle yards with crush, new water system with a trough in all 15 paddocks and the brand new 260m² colour steel Pole shed fit for many purposes.
School bus at the gate or a 9km drive to Ōtewā primary school.
Grazing Available
Specialising in re-roofing, roof maintenance, spouting, downpipes and light commercial work and roof leaks
Across 1. Simple (4) 4. Stitch (6) 8. Surprise (7) 9. Platform for performers (5) 10. Skinny (4) 11. Stirred up (8) 13. Record player (9) 17. Be naturally well suited (3,2,3) 19. Twirl (4)
5.
LONG
Experienced grazier Waitomo ph 021 408 548
HPXIYTEPATIHEMSSSB DZVORGGARMENTZATOA EPPANCELDEENSTIPMW NDDITHREADTTITTAIL IMWGNITTUCYNCHVDRN MEOIZFMNTLEHBRCATI
SEAMTFTEEEGVNOCAEL QECGROSUAIXEPINSMP IILEHNOIHSAFLOZHUO
clean single person. $325 per week. Contact Mike 021 1569 887.
Ideally you would be socially confident and have the ability to positively connect with a wide range of people, demonstrate problem solving and decision making skills, able to multi task, and provide good communication - written and verbal.
We’re looking for someone with the following (preferred but not essential):
• Palace Property Management and TPS software knowledge
• Experience or knowledge in housing or property management
• Knowledge of the Residential Tenancies Act 1986
• General administration experience.
This role will be 25 hours per week over 4 days (negotiable). You must have a drivers licence, and your own vehicle to take to property inspections.
Hourly pay rate is negotiable, depending on previous experience.
Do you enjoy singing?
Find out about your local choir at the Waitomo Caves Choir Open Day Saturday, August 31, 2024 Baptist Church, Ōtorohanga
Meet & greet over morning tea from 9.30am, Sing 10am - 12pm
The choir is non auditioned, however, to retain a good balance of voices, spaces may be limited. For more information contact Katrin Woermer 027 203 6595, wcaveschoir@gmail.com
Please apply online https://www.trademe.co.nz/a/jobs/ office-administration/other/waikato/ waitomo/part-time/listing/487258836 or send your CV and cover letter to buzz.linn@raywhite.com
Applications close 02/09/2024.
We’re looking for an Underground Specialist who wants to work in the power distribution sector.
Do you enjoy working outside?
Are you physically fit?
Do you have a great sense of community?
Working as part of our Network Services team, this role requires a hardworking, reliable and physically fit person.
The role involves trenching, laying underground utility services and installing earth mats. It requires operating machinery like rammers, small diggers and bulldozers, and ensuring job sites meet LTSA traffic management standards.
Key tasks include directing traffic, interpreting utility plans, coordinating with operations staff and following documented procedures to maintain safety and efficiency.
If this sounds like you, visit our Careers page on our website.
thelinescompany.co.nz/about-us/work-for-us/
Kawhia Moana, Kawhia Kai, Kawhia Tangata Kai Festival AGM
To be held on Saturday 14th September, 2024
Venue: Kawhia Methodist Church Hall Time: 11.00
Agenda:
Minutes
Finanical Report
Chairperson’s Report
General Business
Nau mai, many hands make light work
PURSUANT to the Transport (Vehicular Traffic Road Closure) Regulations 1974, notice is hereby given that the Waitomo District Council, for the purpose of the Hamilton Car Club Waitomo Rally proposes to temporarily close the following roads/streets to ordinary vehicular traffic for the periods indicated:
Rally event 2024
Date: Sunday 20 October 2024 from 9am – 5pm
Period of Closure: 9am to 4pm
Streets/Roads: Waitewhena Road, Ohura Road, Kaeaea Road, Matiere Road, Oniao Road, Owen Road, Kohua Road, Tikitiki Road.
Intersections affected: Parakoko Road, Keighley Road, Ohura Road, Matiere Road, Mokauiti Road, Kohua Road, Ngatamahine Road, Rauriki Road, Kaitaringa Road Tikitiki Road, Sargents Road.
Alternative Routes: No alternative routes are provided and access is restricted as per information provided to affected residents.
Be part of a forward-thinking, community-owned company that energises our local people!
Any person objecting to the proposal is called upon to lodge notice of objection and grounds thereof in writing, before 5pm on Tuesday 10 September 2024 at the office of Waitomo District Council, 15 Queen Street, Te Kūiti.
Smit Chief Executive
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
Notice calling for trustee nominations
Notice calling for Trustee Nominations
Maraeroa A and B Trust will be holding its Annual General Meeting at the Journey Church, 10 Sheridan St, Te Kūiti at 11am, Saturday, October 19, 2024.
Maraeroa A and B Trust will be holding it’s annual general meeting at the Journey Church, 10 Sheridan St, Te Kūiti at 11am, Saturday, September 9, 2023.
Notice is hereby given calling for nominations from adult registered descendants for three (3) positions as trustees. Nominations must be in writing on prescribed nomination forms that can be obtained by contacting Debbie Walker (details below).
Notice is hereby given calling for nominations from adult registered descendants for two (2) positions as trustees. Nominations must be in writing on prescribed nomination forms that can be obtained by contacting Debbie Walker (details below).
Completed nomination forms are to be received by Debbie at the registered office (address below).
Nominations close August 4, 2023 at 11am.
Debbie Walker - Maraeroa A and B Trust
Completed nomination forms are to be received by Debbie at the registered office (address below). Nominations close September 26, 2024 at 11am.
Debbie Walker - Maraeroa A and B Trust
46 Taupiri St PO Box 61
46 Taupiri St
Te Kuiti 3910
PO Box 61
Phone: 07 878 8145
Te Kuiti 3910
Email: debbie@mkf.co.nz
Phone: 07 878 8145
Email: debbie@mkf.co.nz
NOTICE is hereby given that pursuant to regulation 11(3) of the Heavy Motor Vehicle Regulations 1974, Waitomo District Council has fixed the following maximum mass and speed limits for heavy motor vehicles and combinations including a heavy motor vehicle on the bridges described hereunder:
Awakau Road
Date issued: 21 August 2024 Name of
Calling all budding and experienced artists Theme of the competition The Unseen Te KūitiShine a light on unseen Te Kūiti. Competition runs from September 1, 2024 - 11.59pm October 31, 2024
Two entry categories: Student 17 years of age or under Open 18 years of age or over Main prize - the winning photo from each category will be enlarged onto boards and used to beautify empty shop windows.
Attention is drawn to the applicable penalties and infringement fees set out in Schedule 1A or Part 3 of Schedule 1B of the Land Transport (Offences and Penalties) Regulations 1999, which apply to infringements of these limits.
Shyamal Ram
General Manager - Infrastructure Services
Follow us on Facebook to find out more. From September 1 online entry form and rules will be available on the Legendary Te Kūiti facebook page and school students can access forms directly through their school.
for the 'young at heart'
Morning tea 10am at the Journey Church, Te Kūiti, movie 10.30am All seniors welcome
Annual General Meeting
Wednesday, September 11 at 1.30pm Lyceum Clubrooms, 4 Hinerangi St, Te Kūiti All welcome
REMINDER
The Te Kūiti CAB serves the Te Kūiti, Taumarunui and Ōtorohanga areas
Bureau Opening Hours
Monday-Friday 10am-1pm @ 222 Rora St, Te Kūiti
Other contacts ph 07 878 7636 e: tekuiti@cab.org.nz
Justice of the Peace clinic Tuesdays 1-2pm, no appointments necessary
Free Legal clinic
Please contact the Bureau to arrange an appointment
New volunteers
We are always welcome new volunteers. Helping others through the CAB is very satisfying. Please contact the Bureau if you are keen.
Ōtorohanga Tennis Club AGM
Tuesday, September 2, 6.30pm at the Ōtorohanga Tennis Club.
This game will be determine the winners of the Waikato Bay of Plenty League One Championship for 2024
We look forward to your support this Saturday
The Otorohanga Football Club would like to thank its sponsors for the 2024 season:
Bulk Lines
Ingham Kiwitown Electrical
Strawbridge Ōtorohanga
Tce, Mōkau 1st and 3rd Sunday 2pm Service
Piopio contact:
877 8097
BAPTIST CHURCH Ranfurly St, Ōtorohanga Service times Sunday 10.30am
Everyone welcome Contact 07 873 8685
BETHELL, Clyde Rodney: 26/03/1934 –28/08/2023
Dad, Grandad, Great Grandad –Your presence we miss, your memories we treasure, and loving you always, forgetting you never.
Greg and Rosalie, Krystal and Rob, Matt and Talia and families.
MACKINDER, Charles
Edwin: February 5, 1935 - August 28, 2021. Grief is the price we pay for love. It’s hard to believe 3 years have passed - each day I remember an aspect of life I would like to share with you. You remain an amazing man who gave so much to so many. Love always Marilyn.
FAIRHURST Michael John: Born August 24, 1972. Passed away on August 24, 2024. Dearly loved soulmate and husband of Jannine. Adored father of Matt, Tim, and Jack. Loved Son of Neil and Margaret, brother of Sandra, Maree, and Colin (deceased). Cherished nephew, son in-law, brother in-law and loved uncle, an amazing friend to many. A Service for Michael will be held at the Te Awamutu Bible Chapel, Chapel Drive, Te Awamutu (today) Thursday, August 29 at 11am followed by private cremation. All communications to the Fairhurst family, PO Box 137, Te Awamutu 3840. Te Awamutu Funeral Services, FDANZ
MURRAY, Leonie Margaret, (nee Tinkler):
The Ōtorohanga Support House would like to thank the following for their support during our recent alterations:
Good Guys Hire ITM Oto
Robert Prescott Support Manager Support House committee member Thanks
Customtone Kitchens
Pratts Plumbing Oto
Reece Plumbing Hamilton OTC Oto
Deb and Ross Loomans
MAIN, Anna: Passed away August 30, 2022. Cherished precious princess of Bernie Nikora. An angel only lent. Your life was a blessing, your memory a treasure. Those who touch our lives, stay in our hearts forever. Ka nui taku aroha kia koe. Pearly.
Millar, Kevin (Blackie): A loved brother and uncle tragically taken 14 years ago yesterday.
A little tribute Small and tender
Just to say We still remember Forever missed by Kathryn, Averil, Bonnie, Jaymee and families.
Born July 26, 1949 left this world on Sunday August 25, 2024 surrounded by the love of her girls. Much loved mother of Natalie and Aandrea, wife of the late Ray Murray, cherished grandmother to Jack, Kyra, Rylea, Flynn, Cooper, and Stella. Treasured sister of Lochie and Kevin Tinker, an amazing aunty and friend to many. We were blessed to have her as part of our lives, and we all have a small piece of our hearts missing. Leonie’s life will be celebrated at a later stage. The private family service will be held on Thursday, August 29, 2024. All communications, please, to Seddon Park Funeral Home Ltd, PO Box 5523, Frankton, Hamilton 3242.
Every day, in some small way memories of you come our way, Though absent, you are ever near still missed, still loved, and ever dear, Your cheeky smile, your loving face
No one can fill your empty place. We love and miss you Cole ♥ Greg, Rosalie, Krystal Matt and families