King Country
Zac plans summer rehab
By Andy Campbell
One of the heroes of King Country’s dramatic Lochore Cup win over West Coast last month has his fingers crossed about his left knee.
Zac Wickham-Darlington’s biggest game ended early on October 20 as he twisted the knee going into a first half tackle – and it looked as though the injury could be serious.
But Wickham-Darlington is hoping to get word soon that he faces recovery spell of just six weeks – meaning a “big off season rehab” which sees him ready for the start of next season.
The injury cost Wickham-Darlington a chance of Heartland XV selection – and he has set that as a target for 2025.
“It wasn’t the tackle that actually did the damage - I did a left foot step immediately before going into the tackle, so it was just off a side step,” he explained.
The two West Coast players heard him cry out in pain and immediately got off him, something he acknowledged.
“We’ve always had a good relationship with those fellas - probably one of the most respectful teams we’ve come up against, year after year,” he said.
Wickham-Darlington spent the rest of the game in a knee brace on the sideline as the Rams took the cup in extra time 46-44.
He made it to the after match, where it was found the Lochore Cup topped out with the beer from three stubbies.
“I was walking at the after match. I was still walking around for the most part of it. It was an awesome night, a lot of the boys stayed together later and went back to one of boys houses to carry on.”
Wickham-Darlington moved from Te Kūiti to Hamilton about three years ago –but continues to play for Bush in the King Country club competition.
He is a social worker in Hamilton working with young offenders, and is often in court for
them. He also assists with their rehabilitation – everything from helping them into work to assisting them obtain their driving licences.
His season with King Country came to an abrupt end – and had a hiccough in between.
Wife Shelley – Shelz - gave birth to their daughter Brisbyn in mid-September and for three weeks beforehand the midwife was worried baby could come at any minute.
“It affected my away trips, basically two
Wickhgames out… I couldn’t play because I was worried if I left I would miss out.”
Wickham-Darlington learned his rugby at Hamilton Boys High School and New Plymouth Boys High.
The family had moved back to Te Kūiti when he accepted a rugby scholarship at New Plymouth. It was a timely offer because it saved his parents the issue of juggling transport for schooling in Hamilton.
In 2015, in Year 10, Darlington was playing for New Plymouth Boys High, then continued his education at Hamilton Boys High. His plans for next season are to continue wearing the Bush colours, get back into the King Country team “and make a good solid effort to get into that NZ Heartland team next year.” Teammates Kristian Gent-Standen and Kaleb Foote represented the province in this season’s team.
Pictured at home in Hamilton, Zac Wickham-Darlington with Shelley, baby Brisbyn, baby’s rams soft toy and Chavée, 15.
Lions mark six decades’ service
By Paul Charman
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The Ōtorohanga Lions Club celebrated its 60th year of service to its community at a dinner held the Caves Motor Inn last night.
Member Dave Williams said it was timely occasion to celebrate and consider what has been achieved since the club was formed in 1964.
“We also want to remind local residents that our club is here for them. For example, we’re now considering this year’s applications to their Laurie Harnett Scholarship Fund.
Laurie was a local farmer and though not a member of the Lions Club he left the club a large bequest, so we want his name remembered.
“Laurie gave away substantial funds not only to us but to other local organisations which service this community.”
Funds from the scholarship which the Lions oversaw were being made available to secondyear university students and second-year apprentices.
Williams said the Lions Club was there to assist young people, older people and those in need.
“The Lions Shop in town is now our biggest fundraiser but we raise funds in other ways such as running golf tournaments and street raffles. Our physical work in the community is usually unseen but we are able fund many community projects and events usually with an emphasis on youth and
education.”
The current Laurie Harnett Scholar, Ben Pettigrew, is studying conservation and the previous scholar, commerce.
Williams enjoys working alongside other positive minded people as they work for their community.
“There’s nothing more worthwhile than helping people with a group of like-minded people who are united in a common cause. The Lions are a real cross-section of society. We’re from diverse backgrounds and racial groups but the common thread is concern for those less fortunate, or who need a hand up to reach their goals.
“None of the Lions are in it for themselveswe really do want to do something for others but a by-product is that we have a lot of fun along the way.”
Club members meet twice a month. One meeting is for business, at which members broke up into committees involved in community work.
The other meeting takes the form of a dinner, with a guest speaker providing a talk on a subject seen as relevant to the Ōtorohanga community.
“We now have 31 members and are very proud that our oldest member., Laurie Cowan, who is 102.
“We have had much involvement with Beattie Home and the Papakāinga Homestead dementia centre, which is a state-of-the-art facility we can all be proud of.”
When selling makes sense
By John Robertson, Mayor of Waitomo
Last month Waitomo District Council put a second tranche of residential zoned property that it owns on the market.
The first tranche of property sold in 2022 was on Lawrence Street, Te Kūiti. This property consisted of bare land, at the time it was grazing horses and growing blackberry. It was sold to Housing New Zealand for social housing. Construction is well underway now to build 11 houses.
The second tranche of four sections behind the Les Munro Centre, is almost sold out. It includes a house that has been unoccupied for some time, two units, and some bare land.
A third tranche is in the making by way of subdivision - three sections on Sutherland Street near Brook Park. As a fourth tranche, I expect we will subdivide a few sections of Council land on Mangarino Road.
Revenue generated from these sales is being applied to reduce council debt and thus our borrowing costs. By the end of next year, I expect that we will have generated close to $2 million from such sales.
Selling surplus council owned property achieves a number of objectives. Paying down council debt to reduce costs is one. Providing land for much needed housing is another.
Selling council owned rental houses also makes sense. Councils are not good property managers. This is outside our core business and competency. Currently we are reviewing the rationale for continued ownership of several rental properties in the district.
Council also owns 20 pensioner housing units in Te Kūiti. These are fully occupied. There is no intention to sell these, but we do need to think about their longer term financial sustainability and maintenance. They are aging and will likely need substantial renewal in the next two decades.
In some communities such housing is owned and maintained by community trusts. Here in Waitomo District the Piopio Retirement Village is one example. Another model is iwi or hapu ownership of kaumatua housing.
It’s good for us to look at new ways of doing things, to challenge business as usual, or at least to confirm that what was done previously still makes sense. Council continuing to hold surplus land that can be sold to reduce debt and council costs, and thus our rates, doesn’t make sense, unless there’s another very good reason for doing so.
The club is proud of its oldest member, Laurie Cowan, who is 102.
Transport refresh
Regional bus users from the King Country now have access to upgraded facilities at Hamilton Transport Centre following a $6.6 million refresh funded by New Zealand Transport Agency and Hamilton City Council.
Bronze boxer
Taumarunui southpaw Nikah Perez, 17, has picked up a bronze medal in the 75kg class at the World Boxings Under-19 championships in Colorado, United States. The Silverback Boxing Academy boxer fought just once having been put straight into the semifinals and lost to eventual gold medal winner Krishna Verma from India.
Business News out
The latest edition of Waikato Business News - published by Good Local Media who also produces community newspapers in King Country, Cambridge and Te Awamutu – is out. Leading the monthly publication is a story on leech farmers Maria and Robert Lupton, formerly from King Country and now near Cambridge, whose blood sucking leeches save lives. Read waikatobusinessnews. nz
Free surgeries
Braemar Charitable Trust will provide free surgeries for up to 70 people this month as part of its longrunning Community Surgery Programme. The trust owns Hamilton’s Braemar Hospital, and funds free community surgeries for people in need.
Organ Day
Organ donation recipients across the country will come together for ‘Thank You Day’, on November 30. Organised by Organ Donation New Zealand, it is a day of appreciation dedicated to all those who make organ donation possible. Last year, organs donated from 64 deceased people lead to more than 200 people receiving kidney, liver, lung, heart or pancreas transplants.
Whanau warning: get alarms
By Sigrid Christiansen
A family whose home was badly damaged in a fire is urging people not to put off installing smoke alarms.
The Wallace family escaped their William St home after noticing a wall was catching fire – then watched as the blaze took hold.
They have asked friend Te Aroa Pou to speak for the family. He said people should think about smoke alarms and house insurance.
The Wallaces had owned the single storey 1950-built house for three decades.
Mum Dana, twins Isaiah and Jayden (29) brother Michael (17) and Dana’s moko Te ao te po (one) and Matiu (five), were awake when the fire broke out just before 9pm on October 25.
Sitting at a table, Dana noticed the wall getting hot behind her back – and soon afterwards, the family saw flames. They got out with little time to spare.
Pou said of the smoke alarm and insurance message
“these things do happen, so don’t put off getting a smoke alarm, do think about the insurance”.
The Wallace family had neither. Pou said for the “busy and giving whānau, the focus has always been on the community, not on their own needs - “life simply got in the way”.
The fire service has yet to determine what caused the fire but say it was accidental.
Te Kūiti Volunteer Fire Brigade Chief Officer Hayden Sheedy said the fire had been in a bedroom and the living area.
“They tried to put a bit of water on it, then got out.”
The brigade sent two appliances and 10 firefighters to the scene and a support vehicle. The house sustained structural damage in the roof and bedroom and smoke and heat and structural damage elsewhere.
From the outside, “it looks like there’s nothing went wrong”, but inside is a different story, Pou said.
The Wallaces managed to save their two dogs and two cats and boxes of Te Kūiti Pā t-shirts and merchandise for that weekend’s Te Kawau Maro o Maniapoto hiu-a-iwi.
They have been offered a place to live for the next three months and potentially beyond, but not yet a longterm rental, while they repair or rebuild.
Dana Wallace is a familiar figure in the kitchens at Te Kūiti Pā, which regularly hosts hundreds-strong groups for events.“Everyone who works in the kitchens at Te Kūiti Pā has had guidance from Dana,” Pou said.
On social media a Givealittle page has been set up to help the family. The
crowdfunding page had raised almost $14,000 by noon Tuesday. Funds raised will go towards temporary accommodation and household goods and, it is hoped, repairing or rebuilding the house.
Time to upgrade
The New Zealand Fire Service says one in three homes where there were fires last year did not have smoke alarms installed - and existing ones might be due an upgrade..
It says people are four times more likely to survive a house fire where smoke alarms are fitted – and smoke from a house can kill in less than three minutes.
Fire and Emergency New Zealand promotes long-life photoelectric smoke alarms. The service also recommends upgrading alarms which have a 9-volt battery which “chirp” to be replaced after a year and switching to an alarm which comes with a built in sealed long-life battery which will last about 10 years.
Spelling out cyber safety warnings
Sigrid Christiansen
Rob Cope tours the country as parent educator aiming to leave parents feeling empowered.
Wellington based Cope, who has spent six years tackling the issues of cyber safety, gaming, bullying and online predators, spoke last night at Ōtorohanga South School.
He is a documentary maker and the co-founder of Our Kids Online, an online resource which aims to help parents and schools keep children safe.
He started taking an interest in cyber safety after the four children in his blended family asked for their own technology – now he hands out advice.
Ōtorohanga South
Principal Scott Lincoln said the school wanted to provide something that would open parents’ eyes up to “what’s out there, what’s truly happening”.
If parents are overly relaxed or oblivious, they can’t manage risks, he said.
He said the school hosted the event on behalf of Ōtorohanga’s Ngā Awa
ki te Moana Kāhui Ako (Communities of Learning) group. The Waitomo Communities of Learning group, Arotahi Kahui Ako had also been invited.
He said the Otorohanga group had a practice of setting itself “achievement challenges,” and one of the current priorities related to children’s wellbeing.
“We want our students to feel safe, happy and included,” he said.
“I’ve had conversations with parents around their children getting upset and angry about what’s going on
in social media.”
He said that keeping children safe online could be a challenge, as many had the information technology (IT) skills to find their way around filters. At Ōtorohanga South, the school had invested in further IT filters other than those provided to all schools, for this reason.
Cope’s material covers issues like gaming and the developing brain, and the links between social media and mental health.
He also provide solutions - showing parents how to keep children safe by locking down phones, installing filters and having “difficult conversations”.
Siblings Isaiah Wallace, Michael Wallace and Jayden Wallace stand in their burned home. Photo Te Aroa Pou.
Scott Lincoln
Tops in sales and service
If you are looking for expert knowledge on work and safety supplies, workshop and almost all outdoor power equipment - then Michael and Lisa King - and store manager Aaron King - are the King Country’s first ports of call. The Otorohangabased couple have operated in the town in one way or another for more than 20 years, before opening the successful Work and Safety Supplies in King St East, Te Kuiti over three years ago.
done that.”
That work is impressive. It includes completely refurbishing the building, doing the work in getting the franchise for Husqvarna, doubling the showroom floor and improving the workshop area – not to mention a change in branding from orange to blue and a name change from Work and Safety Supplies to WASS Equipment.
“We look a er our clients small motor and most outdoor power equipment, no matter what the brand,” Lisa says.
And 18 months ago, the opportunity arose to purchase the old Husqvarna building at 10 Wahanui Crescent, in Otorohanga.
“It seemed like a good idea to invest in that; a good percentage of our Te Kuiti customers had followed us from Otorohanga and we do live there, so it made sense to open a second branch there,” Lisa says.
“We had a lot of work we wanted to do before we were ready to really advertise we were here – and we’ve
“We’ve upgraded everything and now have a full range – for example, there is almost a sea of rideon mowers, everything from Husqvarna to Cub Cadet, with room for customers to jump on and drive them around to get a feel of them in the park out the back.”
There’s a full range of SP tools on o er, plenty of workshop powered equipment, outdoor powered equipment that includes everything from small to heavy duty - and of course we carry a great range of parts and most things people will
need,” Lisa says.
As with the Te Kuiti store, the workshop attached to the store is second to none, with a mechanic and apprentice available to take care of customers’ needs.
“We look a er our clients small motor and most outdoor power equipment, no matter what the brand,” Lisa says.
WASS Equipment also stocks engineering supplies, including everything from welding machines to consumables, compressors and other equipment.
The forestry industry is well looked a er too, from sales of chainsaws and parts, through to servicing and associated consumables.
Parts for all the ranges out there are a big part of what both stores have to o er, as well as safety equipment, although the latter has the larger range in the Te Kuiti store.
“Not that it matters – everything between the two stores is linked, is
easy to access and we travel between the two stores on a daily basis. If one doesn’t have it on hand, the other one probably will, so our customers have very quick access when it’s required.” This could be anything from work wear ranging from overalls to eye protectors and other PPE through to oils and lubes for ongoing maintenance for equipment.
It’s not just hands on service that is on o er either.
A comprehensive website has been set up – wass.co.nz – that allows customers to browse through and order whatever item they may require without the necessity of having to come in to order something unusual they know may not be in stock.
It also makes the whole process easier for those who haven’t got the time to zip into town.
Both stores are open from Monday to Friday 8am until 5pm and on Saturday by appointment.
Left to Right – Aaron King , Lisa King, Shivaan Naidu
Turntable faces derailment
Community fundraising to restore a rail turntable enabled steam trains to make day trips to Te Kūiti. But now rail enthusiasts fear its days are numbered. Andy Campbell reports.
Excursion trains into Te Kūiti will be a thing of the past if plans to remove the turntable go ahead, Glenbrook Vintage Rail general manager Tim Kerwin says.
He was commenting on Waitomo District Council chief executive Ben Smit’s report to council last week about organising talks between concerned parties about a KiwiRail proposal to remove the turntable.
Glenbrook Vintage Rail is the major North Island passenger excursion train operator which has in the past provided running of the sheep excursions and popular day trips from Hamilton.
It is a largely volunteer based organisation keeping old rolling stock and locomotives in use, while paying a commercial rate “higher than Te Huia” on KiwiRail’s track.
Kerwin understood KiwiRail had disposed of the land the turntable was on, and now intended to remove the turntable.
Without the turntable steam trains - which could only travel at 25km/h in reverse, would no longer be able to visit Te Kuiti – on occasions such as the NZ Shearing Championships and running of the sheep in April 2025.
He said it would also rule out day trips by the GVR diesel locomotive. Trains on the NIMT be unaffected.
Kerwin said it followed a pattern
of KiwiRail removing taxpayer funded sidings and other rail infrastructure across the country.
Waitomo District Council has a licence to occupy the land which is believed to be part of the Maniapoto settlement and the land vested in Te Nehenehenui.
The turntable was paid for by public donations when it was restored in 2004. The original turntable was removed and the hole filled in in 1968, the Waitomo News reported in 2004.
When it was dug out again, the old spindle was till there and was reused when the turntable was restored and rebuilt. The new turntable came from Napier.
It was tested in September 2004 with a diesel locomotive from Hamilton which was turned around on the turntable to complete the sign off, and re-open the station for steam train visits.
The then Waitomo district council chief executive David Jack rode the diesel from Hamilton and was on board during the test.
“A lot of blood sweat and tears have gone into this turntable so it’s really gratifying to finally put a locomotive on it,” he said at the time.
“The North King Country Rail Society has been working on this project for a long time, so for them it’s a real day of satisfaction.”
The purpose of the restoration was to re-open Te Kūiti to steam train visits, particularly for the town’s centenary on November 20, 2004. The centenary engine was Ja1275.
The last steam engine to use the turntable was Ja1271 in October 2022.
Current Mayor John Robertson is also concerned about Te Kūiti
losing the use of the turntable.
Chief executive Ben Smit had been trying to find a resolution because the excursion trips are important, he said.
Executive General Manager Property Anna Allen said KiwiRail has received a request that it dispose of some railway land at Carroll Street, Te Kūiti. Part of the land includes the railway turntable site.
KiwiRail is considering the request.
The railway land at Carroll Street, Te Kūiti hasn’t been declared surplus, and currently there is no agreement in place for its sale.
As the Waitomo District Council has a current lease in place over the turntable site, KiwiRail has consulted the Council on the request.
Steam locomotive Ja 1275 uses the Te Kūiti turntable in October 2022. Photo Andy Campbell.
Mayor on the money
An analysis of Te Kūiti’s finances shows the council is in the enviable position of having lowered its debt over the last six years, mayor John Robertson said.
Over six years since 2018, Waitomo District Council debt decreased from $42 million to $33 million.
“We are probably about the only council in New Zealand where in that six year period, debt has decreased,” he said.
He reviewed the six year period to see what was driving council costs, Robertson, who is a member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants, said in his report.
Over the same six year period rates including water charges increased from $19.7m to $22.5m, up 14 per cent.
Depreciation increased 62 per cent from $5.8m to $9.5m. Expenses other than depreciation increased 47 per cent, from $18.7m to $31.9m.
Robertson said the largest single expense item after depreciation is road maintenance at $7.9m, which rose 50 per cent in the six years.
While debt decreased by 21 per cent over the six years the council’s fixed assets almost doubled from $356 million to $700 million.
He expected all councils recorded an increase in their asset values, largely because councils were required to revalue their assets under accounting rules, often on a replacement cost basis.
This also explained some of the massive increase in the depreciation expense of 62 per cent. Higher asset values meant higher depreciation, Robertson said.
“Some of that fixed assets (increase) is not all about acquiring new assets, it’s about the revaluation of the assets that are there. The fact the asset values have almost doubled, we are depreciating on a higher asset value.”
During the six years council employee numbers increased from 70 in 2018 to 76 in 2024, on a full-time-equivalent basis.
Employee costs rose 41 per cent to $7.3m. Debt financing costs declined from $1.76m in 2018 to $1.63m in 2024.
Robertson said the gap between the rates increase of 14 per cent to cover an overall expenditure increase of 50 per cent was largely filled by subsidies and grants.
“In the 2024 year, for example, we invested in a large capital programme for which we received $20m in subsidies and grants, versus $7.6m in 2018.”
Jordan eyes world championship
Triple world-title holder axeman Jack Jordan is in France chasing one title that has eluded his swing – the World Championship.
Taumarunui’s Jordan achieved the sport’s first-ever three-peat last year winning the World Trophy – held annually in Europe and described as the 20/20 cricket of international wood chopping.
Now in Toulouse, France, this weekend Jordan is trying to knock off the elusive World Championship - a more traditional, long-form
format across six different wood-chopping and sawing disciplines against a 12 strong international field.
“Perhaps I’ll have a bit of a target on my back coming off my three-peat success, but I’m very well prepared this year and will be giving it a bloody good crack to bring that World Championship title back to Kirikau,” he said.
Kirikau, south west of Taumarunui, is where Jordan 28, runs the family sheep and beef farm.
Council keeps buses running
By Andy Campbell
The Te Kūiti and Ōtorohanga bus service to Hamilton has been saved for now with funding ‘for the foreseeable future’ being taken up by the Waikato Regional Council.
Waitomo District councillor and regional land transport committee representative Janette Osborne said the regional council took over the funding after the district council removed it from this year’s budget.
“We are not going to lose it at the moment because it has been funded as part of the regional land transport. It and the South Waikato Connector are going to continue for the foreseeable future.”
The regional council was also in talks with the District Council about how the district would be rated for the service.
“They are changing the way they are going to rate it from the Waikato Regional Council. They came and saw us recently with three different proposals as to how it gets funded,” Osborne said.
The regional council had earlier discussed introducing some style of regional transport rate which will be included in next year’s annual plan.
Government funding for public
transport in the Waikato region was severely cut for the 2024-27 triennium with the regional council application of $22 million knocked back to a mere $4.3million.
The trial bus services survived: Pokeno - Pukekohe Bus Service, Matamata - Hamilton Service, Connect-2-Taupo Services, and the Te Kūiti Connector, and Tokoroa Connector.
The National Transport Plan presentation to the regional council’s September meeting of the Regional Land Transport Committee records the funding will continue to 2027.
There were concerns expressed earlier that Te Kūiti might lose its daily Hamilton bus service because of poor patronage.
Waitomo Mayor John Robertson said the council funding ($30,000) helped fund the service’s start up.
“And Ōtorohanga did also till June this year, to fill a gap and be helpful.
“So we put some money in, but it was never intended past July 30.
Public transport in New Zealand is funded by regional councils and the New Zealand Transport Agency.”
There had been a brief consultation with the regional council but it was still in the early stage of thinking through some options, he said.
Here comes Abba again
Sigrid Christiansen
The balmy nights and sparkling seas of the Greek Islands are coming to Te Kūiti tomorrow night, for the opening night of Mamma Mia.
Director Allan Marsden has a 32-strong cast from Te Kūiti, Ōtorohanga, Te Awamutu, Pirongia and everywhere in between.
The love between mums and daughters will shine on stage thanks to the actors playing Donna, a hotelier who is to host her daughter’s wedding, and Sophie, the young bride to be.
Benneydale school principal Jacqui Coogan plays Donna. For her,
the biggest efforts lay in the vocal demands of the role.
“The music of Abba is really challenging, and my strengths are really in acting rather than singing. So doing justice to the songs is quite a challenge.
“And they don’t really sound anywhere near as cool if you don’t have the harmonies – so we did spend a lot of the time getting those right.”
While Coogan is exchanging her whiteboard for dancing shoes; another actor is changing gumboots for greasepaint. Sidney Edwards, who plays Donna’s daughter Sophie lives on a farm near Ōtorohanga.
There will be 10 performances in
total.
Marsden said he never had any doubt the show would come together, “once we cast it, you could see the quality of the cast; the energy and the enthusiasm”.
“We just really want Te Kūiti to come alive with theatre. We want everybody to leave the theatre on opening night going ‘Woah, this is what our town can do.’
“They’re going to sing their way through the musical. I can’t see how they won’t – you just can’t help yourself.”
It’s been around a decade since there’s been a similar musical in Te Kūiti.
The cast of Mamma Mia is ready for opening night.
Farm forestry agreements near
By Andy Campbell
An agreement where farm forestry operators help maintain rural roads affected by their operations may be ready in a few weeks.
The agreement where forest owners and logging operators pay for the damage to rural roads came out of Waitomo District Council’s long term plan submissions in June.
Farm forest owners had strenuously objected to a council proposal to increase a farm forestry block rating differential from about $4 to more than $40 a hectare.
A differential of just under $12 a hectare was settled on, and the council accepted an offer from Greenplan Forestry for the industry to maintain and repair roads used by logging operators.
The adjustment is in response to a flood of submissions against the differential increase from just about every farmer with a forestry block. Among other things they pointed out the council had been receiving the forestry differential for 30 years without any of it apparently being spent on rural roads – and now the trees were ready for harvest the council was asking them to pay for road damage they thought was already being paid
for.
Council chief executive Ben Smit said there had been discussions over who would be the parties to the agreement – noting complexities where three or four parties were involved.
“We’re just getting some opinion on the conversations around that from [lawyers] Tompkins Wake.
He would then resume talks with Greenplan and large foresters “that are positive about having the agreement in place.” The agreement would be ‘parental’ with subsidiary parts as every agreement was different, Smit said.
“You might have some circumstance where
the forestry is 20-30km up a road and had significant impact on a whole lot of people, and you might have something that goes straight onto a state highway and there’s no impact at all,” Smit said.
Who the involved parties were was another aspect where in addition to the farm owner, there could be several additional parties involved in each agreement including a forest owner, a logging contractor and a truck owner.
The council resolution in June accepted the forestry industry would contribute towards the cost of fixing damage to council roads caused by logging trucks.
Charge sites to be decided
A new site for three electric car charging stations outside the Lines Company headquarters in King St has yet to be determined.
The Lines Company intends to shift its entire staff next year to a new headquarters on land it owns in Waitete Rd – leaving it’s King Street home. Acting chief executive Craig Hacket says the location of the charging stations has not been finalised.
Te Kūiti also has charging stations at the Z station in Te Kumi Rd and New World Supermarket in 43 Rora St. The next closest
sites are at Hangatiki and Waitomo Caves.
When the Lines Company announced its move last month, it said options for the existing building were being looked at. They included strengthening work, as it is considered an earthquake risk, or demolishing it.
“We still don’t have detailed costs because the underlying nature of the building structure is unknown,” Hacket said. “But we know the foundations are a risk given the proximity to the stream, so the costs are likely to be significant. We would need to bring it up to 75 per cent
of the National Building Standard (NBS), and even then, it would not provide the working environment or the resilience we need in case of a natural disaster.”
Would TLC be interested in keeping and letting the present building?
“No, being a landlord is not our core business, so that is unlikely. We have already said there are options on the table with one to sell the building for development by another party.”
He added there was much detail to work through before the TLC could say much more about its new headquarters.
“In terms of timing, we have a lot to work through and that includes design and tender and working with council and other stakeholders to get the best outcome for the site. No consents have been lodged; we’re some way off that yet. Completion of the new building is roughly scheduled for late 2026.
Detailed plans had not yet been drawn up.
“But the intention is that all employees currently working at the King Street site will be relocated to the new site, alongside existing Waitete Depot staff, noting many depot staff are out in the field much of the time.”
At present the Lines Company building in King St has three charging stations.
Are these thieves for reel?
Te Kūiti Museum volunteers are scratching their heads over the motivation behind last month’s burglary of storage sheds next door to their building in Rora St.
The sheds, on the property owned by NZ Post, were raided on September 13 and again on September 24.
The first burglary was probably a reconnaissance to see what was there. The burglars returned to steal a range of items a week later.
Volunteer Russell Aldridge said the thieves took two old reel mowers, a power saw, a copper backpack sprayer and some old spanners.
The reel mowers were powered by Villiers two-stroke engines which would be hard to adapt for use in any other kind of machine.
“I reckon they were bloody stupid because this old stuff would have been junk to them, but to us quite valuable,” Aldridge said.
“I doubt even a scrap dealer would have been much interested, except for the copper sprayer. These machines were valuable as museum exhibits as they were relics from a bygone era. They were on their way to being cleaned up and put on show.”
He added that if the thieves had not already disposed of the items, they could quite easily put things right.
“If they have any brains at all they’ll go back and leave this stuff outside the sheds they took them from. We’ll take it from there.”
Three waters options
Three waters options being explored by district councils in the Waikato region include one where nine councils are involved, another smaller collective of the southern councils and an option for stand alone councils.
Waitomo District Council chief executive Ben Smit reported on the three waters options to the district council last week. He said great progress was being made on ‘Waikato Waters Done Well’ heads of agreement by the steering group.
He said the Department of Internal Affairs had a fall-back process encouraging smaller councils not to stand alone and looking at what options there were for those district which felt they didn’t fit somewhere else.
At its August council meeting Ōtorohanga District Councillors voted unanimously to opt in to progressing the Waikato regional model for water services delivery.
Waitomo District Councillors will attend workshops this month on the waters options.
Russell Aldridge with a reel mower dating from the 1950s, once used years to mow greens at the Mapiu Golf Club. Photo Paul Charman.
Boost for health programmes
By Mary Anne Gill
Three central North Island primary health organisations have signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Waikato University to tackle New Zealand’s health workforce shortages.
In putting pen to paper, chief executives from Pinnacle, Hauraki and National Hauora Coalition have committed to creating a regional network of training facilities throughout Waikato and King Country to support clinical placements across a range of primary care health professions.
The memorandum comes a month after the government gave Waikato the green light to develop a business case to become the country’s third medical school.
Jo Lane, the university’s pro vice chancellor of health, said the university had significantly expanded its teaching and research activities in recent
years starting with a graduate programme for nursing when it established the country’s first new nursing school in more than 20 years.
Pharmacy and midwifery graduate programmes will start next year.
“Midwifery in particular is hot off the press… the Midwifery Council accredited our programme on Friday right in time for today’s ceremony,” he said.
“The success of these new health programmes is to a large extent dependent on our clinical placement providers and the quality of the clinical patient experiences that we can provide to students.
In short, if students have a fantastic time doing a clinical placement in primary care they’re much more likely to ultimately want to work in primary care.”
Pinnacle is the parent group of the Pinnacle Midlands Health Network, a
Extra string to a tour
A touring Scottish harpist has added an extra gig to her New Zealand sojourn – and it will be at a Waitomo Caves home.
Biddy Stubbs spotted Esther Swift performing at Hamilton’s Nivara Lounge during a previous tour and this time round approached her to ask if she would perform at the Stubbs family home on Saturday week.
“She was amazing. I contacted her and yes, she could fit us in.”
Swift will perform a community concert and patrons are invited to cover her costs.
Smith’s musical talent has drawn comparisons with Icelandic artist Bjork.
“It’s an amazing contemporary take on the instrument. People might think it’s something quite old fashioned, but she’s quite off beat,” Stubbs said.
Swift is on her third New Zealand tour.
She will make festival
appearances in Wellington, Nelson and New Plymouth. Because the instrument is so large, she left her own harp at home and will use a borrowed instrument.
Swift, who studied at Edinburgh’s St Mary’s Music School and the Royal Northern College of Music has also performed in Vietnam, Malaysia, Mongolia.
Listeners love Rowdy
A King Country born duo has won a radio vote in the United States to be named best new artists of 2024.
Rowdy’s Rose collected their award in Connellsville, Pennsylvania. The poll was run by American station Hugs Radio, based in the 7000 strong community.
The stations celebrates “songs you never heard, by artists you never knew existed... but damn well deserve to be heard, and tomorrow you’re gonna go look for them”.
Te Awamutu based singer-songwriters Blair and Rosie Shaw were earlier invited to attend the USA Radio Awards in Pennsylvania in October, both as performers and as nominees –for People’s Choice Vocalists of the Year 2024, and Songwriters of the Year 2024.
The event was televised over six states.
The pair were also selected by NZ on Air as New Tracks artists in June with their new single ‘Shooting Star’, which has featured on music charts in both New Zealand and the US.
After their latest accolade they told followers on social media “quite a few people said we belong in Nashville”.
The duo plan to be back for the Ōtorohanga Christmas markets on December 1 – and to prepare their next music video.
primary health organisation that oversees 84 general practices across Waikato, King Country, Tairāwhiti, Taranaki, Rotorua, TaupōTūrangi and ThamesCoromandel.
Chief executive Justin Butcher said New Zealand trains the fewest number of health graduates per capita in the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD).
“We’ve got a little way to go yet, but we need to embrace opportunities to do things differently and to try new approaches. And that for me is where the relationship and the work that the university here is doing.”
Hauraki chief executive Taima Campbell said her organisation was smaller than Pinnacle with an enrolled population of almost 85,000 mostly rural and Māori people.
“We’re looking forward to
Ōtorohanga
the opportunity to support you and your graduates working in our workforce. We cannot wait.”
National Hauora Coalition is a Māori-led charity covering 60 general practitioner practices across New Zealand, many in the Waikato and King Country.
Chief executive Rachel Brown said the memorandum was an opportunity for students to have placements in primary care, to love their placements, be welcome and therefore want to work in that environment afterwards.
“It’s a privilege to be part of this significantly important partnership.”
Vice chancellor Neil Quigley said the university had set itself the goal of addressing the issues in health when it started developing its health programmes.
“One of the advantages of starting fresh is that you avoid the legacy problems
Police attended three family farm incidents and a mental health callout.
October 28-29: A burglary was reported at a rural address on Otewa Rd. A red Honda 350cc quadbike was stolen from a woolshed.
October 29-30: A 2014 car was broken into at an address on Turongo St. The owner discovered that the ignition had been destroyed and the left rear quarterlight window smashed.
October 30: At about 1am a blue utility was reported stolen from a commercial transport address on Progress Drive. CTV footage showed three people arriving in a silver vehicle and then one getting into the vehicle and the ute being driven away. The ute was later found abandoned on Rangipare St, outside Ōtorohanga South School. Its ignition barrel had been damaged.
November 1: An unidentified man entered the Ōtorohanga College grounds three times between October 30 and 31. On the first occasion he was spoken to by a teacher and then left. The second time he entered the hall while the senior prizegiving was underway and allegedly started shouting out to one of the students. On the third occasion he spoke to staff at the reception desk, asking if a female student was present at the prizegiving. It is alleged he passed over a packet of chocolate marshmallows and some earrings to be given to the student concerned. Enquiries to identify the man are underway.
November 1: At 11.45am police received a report that land adjoining an urupa on a marae on Mangarino Rd, Hangatiki, had been damaged. Police said somebody had used a vehicle to do burnouts on the grounds below the urupa. Inquiries to locate the driver are continuing.
November 1: At about 6pm police stopped a blue Mini hatchback on SH30 and breathtested its 61-year-old woman driver. She was issued an infringement notice for driving with level of breath alcohol level of 330 mg per litre of breath.
of having been going for a long time and bringing all of that history and past ways of doing things with you.
November 2: At 7.30am residents of a rural address on Ouruwhero Rd reported a motorcycle had been abandoned in their driveway. Police contacted the registered owner, who claimed he had sold the bike several days earlier, but that it had since been stolen.
November 3: At 11.35 am police attended a single vehicle crash on SH3. A 1967 Pontiac GTO was towing a campervan when the towed vehicle jack-knifed, causing a crash, damaging the Pontiac. A tractor removed the crashed vehicles from the road.
November 4: At about 9am police received a complaint that a minor assault had been committed on a prison officer at Waikeria. The matter is being investigated.
November 4: At about 5pm a man carrying a large, camouflaged gun-case was reported to be screaming and yelling in Merrin Ave. Police later searched a house on Merrin Ave and found a shotgun alongside a camouflaged gun case. The search also recovered two pipes for smoking methamphetamine and cannabis respectively. The firearm was seized but the man has not yet been not located.
Police attended one family harm incident and a mental health callout.
November 1: At about 4pm a self-propelled HRU 216 lawnmower valued at $2300 was stolen from a lawn mowing contractor’s trailer, parked on Raglan Rd.
November 2-3: A property on Tainui St was broken into and a beer fridge secured with a padlock pried open and beer taken.
Police attended one family harm incident.
Police attended six family harm incidents and a mental health callout.
October 30: At 12.30pm a man was reported to have shoplifted a box of cable ties at Mitre 10, Taupiri St. It is alleged he also may have
“So, we’re quite determined that we’ll learn the lesson and find ways to do things differently.”
been responsible for string of shoplifting incidents there.
October 30-31: A fence was reportedly cut at the Mangaokewa Gorge Scenic Reserve on SH30. A grey Nissan Terrano was seen nearby.
October 30-31: A mobile phone was stolen from a room at the Riverside Lodge.
October 31: At about 8.20am two men were warned for drinking alcohol in the liquor ban area on Rora St.
October 31: A car was broken into outside a Hangatiki motel room. The owner reported that the left front door and the key barrel had been damaged and items from inside the vehicle had been stolen.
November 1: At about 9.40am a vehicle was stopped by police in Te Kumi Rd and its 20-year-old driver handed over a small bag of cannabis and was given a formal warning.
November 1: At about 3.45pm a woman allegedly entered the Mitre 10 store, selected a vacuum cleaner valued at $700, and threw it over the wall of the garden centre to a female accomplice waiting outside. The two women drove off and a member of the public confronted them a short time later in the Te Kūiti Warehouse carpark. A verbal altercation followed, and the women then got in their car and headed north on SH3. The car has been traced to Hamilton, but the two women are still at large.
November 1: At about 9.20pm police stopped a car on Carroll St. The 36-year-old driver was shown to have a breath alcohol level of 564 mg alcohol per litre of breath. Charges are pending.
November 3: At about 4.10pm a member of the public observed a car headed south on Carroll St, noticing that the driver was on bail conditions demanding that he did not drive. Police attempted to stop the vehicle on Lawrence St and a short chase followed. It is alleged the man driving then stopped abruptly and then tried to switch seats with his front seat passenger. A 29-year-old man was arrested for breach of bail conditions. The vehicle has been impounded for six-months.
Waikato University’s Pacific assistant vice chancellor Keakaokawai Varner Hemi, right alongside Tom Roa (Ngāti Maniapoto, Waikato, Ngāti Apakura), professor of Te Pua Wananga ki te Ao - Faculty of Māori and Indigenous Studies were present at the signing with from left Hamilton mayor Paula Southgate, Hamilton East MP Ryan Hamilton and vice chancellor Neil Quigley.
Photo: Mary Anne Gill.
Esther Swift is on her third New Zealand tour.
POLICE DESK
Rhyming out of writer’s block
By Paul Charman
Becoming a professional poet wouldn’t be everyone’s dream job but it is definitely what Waitomo resident Mysteeq Taukiri is aiming for.
The 19-year-old will lead a “poetry slam event” providing a platform for other aspiring poets at the ArtBeat Festival at the Ōtorohanga Museum next month.
Taukiri drifted into poetry at primary school having already decided that her destiny was to write for a living.
“As a child, if I had trouble getting started on a piece of writing, I’d write out a few lines of poetry – especially poetry with prophecy in it – and I found this always worked for me,” she said.
These poems came to the attention of her teacher, who recognised talent and encouraged her to stick with it. Taukiri said she has done just that over the years, honing her craft at every opportunity and with the help of her extremely well-read sister, Sky.
Sky has provided much encouragement and acts as a proofreader. Taukiri has also been mentored by a couple of her teachers, Whaea Vanessa and her auntie Anna Ngaruhe,
Today Taukiri has a large collection of unpublished verse put aside for her first book, and she is also working on a novel.
She is naturally attracted to controversial subjects, such as - when celebrating Anzac Day - whether the concept of laying down one’s life for one’s country is valid. Taukiri has concluded that it is not.
“To me poetry has enormaous power to inform our understanding and shape our beliefs. If anyone doubts this they should consider how much time people spend listening to songs played on platforms like Spotify – all of these contain lyrics, which are a form of
poetry.
“In my view there’s nothing like the way poetry enables people to communicate ideas and impressions at an emotional level, getting things across in a way nothing else could.
“I love reading other poets’ work and analysing what they are saying in their poems – it’s like decoding a secret message.”
One of the formative experiences for Taukiri, was attending Ōtorohanga College, which she did as a boarder.
“It was such a rich experience for us; we were all young people from the Coast and we functioned more of less like a big extended family.
“I think what made it special was the quality of the staff looking after us, the hostel advisers and night staff in particular. For example, I have vivid memories of students helping in the kitchen, interacting with our chef and learning from him.”
This year Taukiri has been taking part a the Tuia Programme, which is part of the Mayor’s Taskforce for Jobs. This has taken her to locations all over the country providing many stimulating experiences she has used as matertial for poems.
As for the slam event coming up on November 23 and 24, Taukiri says it will feature a big ‘E’ for encouragement.
“There are so many aspiring writers in our community whom I know personally, and I’m sure many more I don’t know. We’ll have the opportunity to meet one another, share our work and give and receive positive input.
“wIt will be a feast of poetry and a celebration of the craft – I can’t wait.”
KNOW YOUR PROFESSIONAL
WHY ARE ENDURING POWERS OF ATTORNEY IMPORTANT?
An Enduring Power of Attorney (“EPA”) is a legal document that allows you to appoint a person of your choice to make decisions on your behalf if you lose mental capacity and are unable to make those decisions yourself. Mental capacity is de ned as your ability to understand information, make decisions about your life, foresee consequences and to communicate those decisions.
There are two types of EPA: Property, and
Personal Care and Welfare. Your EPA in relation to property deals with property in the widest sense of the word and is not limited to real estate. This allows your attorney to manage all of your property a airs, including real estate, bank accounts, paying bills, investments, insurance policies, business and all other personal property. Your EPA in relation to personal care and welfare deals with matters pertaining to your immediate health, including decisions relating to what
medical treatment you are to receive and where you are to live once you have lost mental capacity. If you lose mental capacity without having EPAs in place, no one has the automatic right to handle your a airs for you. The only option your loved ones have is to apply to the Family Court for someone to be appointed as a property manager and/or welfare guardian so they can make decisions for you. This is often a very timeconsuming, stressful and costly process.
STOP THE ITCH
With the change of season and a bit more sunshine about, you may have noticed an increase in irritation from your furry companion. It is that time of the year where those pesky blood sucking parasites have come out of hiding and unfortunately eas have no preference to their host. Luckily there are a wide range of products available tailored
to suit you and your pet. Treating your animals for eas is relatively simple but it is important to understand the ea life cycle, with 95% of the population living in the environment as eggs, larvae or pupae. When eas and mites have been ruled out as a cause to the itch, allergies can be the next port of call. Like humans, dogs (and to a lesser extent cats) can
have allergies to foods, environmental factors such as grasses and even to eas themselves. If your pet is su ering with itchy skin, we may be able to help through special medicated diets, medications or simply a ea treatment. Give us a call or pop in to chat to one of the vet team if you are struggling with your itching pet.
Are you anxious about your upcoming dental appointments? Don’t worry, you are not alone. Here are some tips you can do to ensure a smooth experience.
1. Prepare your information such as your medical history and a list of your current medications.
2. Bring your dental appliances such as retainers or dentures. They are usually needed to ensure t before and after a procedure.
5. Bring a friend or family member
3. Have a meal or snacks. This will ensure your body has the energy needed especially if you are anxious, unless you were advised otherwise (such as before sedation).
4. Arrive early or on time. This gives you time to settle in, ll out any necessary paperwork and ask any questions.
6. Wear what makes you comfortable 7. Have a goal in mind such as just looking for a dental exam or dental emergency. Be honest about your dental history and openly discuss any concerns you may have. This can help the dentist understand your needs and provide the best possible care.
KELSI BARNETT
Mysteeq Taukiri is attracted to controversial subjects.
YOUR REAL ESTATE GUIDE TO THE KING COUNTRY
Four Bedrooms & Two Bathrooms
Entry level buying with benefits or just a move in another direction, this family sized home has the bonus of a new roof, an additional sunroom/study/sewing or hobby room plus an area set aside just for the adults with an ensuite bathroom.
The clever addition of a basement main bedroom has proved popular with the current owners who are looking to downsize. Alternatively, you have the option to take in a border or give another
family member a little of independence. A spiral stairway leads you straight into the dining room adjacent to a very user friendly kitchen with laundry tucked in behind. Three additional bedrooms for the kids and two heat-pumps provide heating and cooling. A large lawn with numerous fruits trees will help keep you grocery bill minimal. What more can we say, other than get you viewing shoes on today and give us a call.
LOCATION | 57 Main North Road, Ōtorohanga
LAND | 839m2
HOUSE | 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 toilets, 1 garage
PRICE | $575,000
LICENSED AGENT | Harcourts Otorohanga
LICENSED SALESPERSON Karen Lennox 027 5594 468 Kerry Harty027 294 6215
WEBSITE | Harcourts.co.nz
WEB ID | OH22549
OPEN HOMES: Saturday 9 November, 12pm-12.30pm
Ōtorohanga 38 Gradara Avenue For Sale $695,000 View By Appointment blueribbonharcourts.co.nz/property/OH22522
A December Settlement is Guaranteed
Set back from the street with elevation and privacy, this property o ers plenty of sunshine and great spaces for a growing family.
An open plan kitchen is combined with a central family area (or dining area) creating an ideal space for summer entertaining with good flow to the attached courtyard. The main lounge and dining room have options to "change it up" depending on the seasons.
Plenty of space for a family with three double bedrooms (the main bedroom has ensuite, walk-in robe and access to the patio). There's also an o ice which has previously been used as a nursery or fourth bedroom.
The 859sqm section is fully fenced with a cobbled driveway and the property is also handy to town, the Domain, Kiwi house and Rotary Park for weekend fun with the kids.
Fuss free, easy care and previously tenanted makes this an appealing option to an Investor. Call us today to find out more.
karen.lennox@harcourts.co.nz
kjharty@harcourts.co.nz
Team Kerry & Karen
Ōtorohanga 5 Sargent Place
Kerry Harty 027 294 6215 kjharty@harcourts.co.nz
Karen Lennox 027 559 4468 karen.lennox@harcourts.co.nz
Ōtorohanga 21 Haerehuka
For
Ōtorohanga 27
Ōtorohanga sections (sizes are approximate)
3 Honikiwi Road, Otorohanga, 5736sqm flat land, power to gate, STT. Phone John
9 Sunset Close, Otorohanga, 750sqm in popular Westridge. Phone Lorraine or John $219,000 12 Merrin Avenue, Otorohanga, 2104sqm, no covenants on section. Phone Lorraine $165,000 16 Merrin Avenue, Otorohanga, 1459sqm, no covenants on section. Phone Lorraine $165,000 163 Old Te Kuiti Road, Lots 1, 3 & 4, 5517-8932sqm, easy covenants. Phone Lorraine From $250,000ea Lot 1, 627 Waitomo Valley Road, Otorohanga, 8105sqm rural lifestyle section. Phone Julie $370,000 Lots 90-108 Harpers Avenue, 486sqm to 962sqm, Westridge II subdivision. Phone John From $220,000ea 576C Mangawhero Road, Otorohanga, 1ha, fenced, sensible covenants. Ph Noldy Offers over $385,000 Te Kūiti sections (sizes are approximate)
5 Robin Azariah Place, Te Kuiti, 906sqm, quiet neighbourhood. Phone Buzz. Offers over $199,000
54A Ailsa Street (Lot 1), Te Kuiti, 2159sqm, end of a cul de sac, STT. Phone Buzz By Negotiation 54A Ailsa Street (Lot 2), Te Kuiti, 1707sqm, end of a cul de sac, STT. Phone Buzz By Negotiation
10 Robin Azariah Place, Te Kuiti, 600sqm level section. Phone Buzz $239.000 Other sections (sizes are approximate)
0 Raglan Road, Kawhia, 2648sqm lifestyle section, no covenants, completely off grid. Ph Julie $340,000 neg 147 Maukutea Drive, Kawhia, 600sqm, covenants apply, services at drive, water tank on site. Ph Julie $375,000 1961 SH31 Kawhia Road, Otorohanga, 16.95ha, bikes, sheep or building site options. Ph
Whakapirau Road, Taharoa
Mahoenui
Te Kuiti 16 Anzac Street
TE MAPARA 65 Arapae Road
Dairy Property - Piopio
Very well located 248 hectare (more or less) flat to easy to medium contoured dairy farm.
High input generated from other two supporting properties have let the vendors achieve good production however this farm is at the size it can easily be a production standalone dairy farm.
42 ASHB shed, feed pad, 10 bay calf shed, one dwelling. Milking 670 cows - 150 of which are winter milkers. Three year average -231826kg MS.
Easy access throughout this farm, including across the road via the underpass. Good soils throughout. Predominately easy rolling contour. Located halfway between Te Kuiti and Piopio.
Note: We are also marketing the other two properties that support this farm. See you at the Open Days.
pggwre.co.nz/TEK40441
TENDER
TE MAPARA Nohonoa Road
Supplement Growing Property - 141 Hectares
Located 9km northeast of Piopio, this property is solely used for supplement growing and winter cow grazing. All feed is transported to the vendors dairy farm at Arapae Road which we are also marketing. Maize is grown on approximately 135 hectares and two cuts of silage are cut and carried. It is bare land with cattle feed pad, yards and load-out facilities. Water is from a legal easement across the Tikirau Road. Contour and location is very good here. See you at the Open Days.
TENDER Plus GST (if any) (Unless Sold Prior) Closes 2.00pm, Thursday 5 December VIEW 10.00-12.00pm Wednesday 13 & 20 November
Peter Wylie
M 027 473 5855
E pwylie@pggwrightson.co.nz
TENDER
(if any) (Unless Sold By Private Treaty)
2.00pm, Thursday 5 December
13 & 20 November
pwylie@pggwrightson.co.nz M 027 473 5855 Peter Wylie
TE MAPARA 37 Napinapi Road
Supplement Growing Property 20 hectares (more or less)
• Three bedroom single storey dwelling
• Two log burners and central heating
• Double garaging
All flat contour
Combination of maize and oats has been grown then transferred to the vendors dairy farmlocated on nearby Arapae Road
• House water is ex roof and ex river for farm Well located just off State Highway 3, north of Piopio
pggwre.co.nz/TEK40443
3 1 2
TENDER
Plus GST (if any) (Unless Sold Prior) Closes 2.00pm, Thursday 5 December VIEW 10.00-12.00pm Wednesday 13 & 20 November E pwylie@pggwrightson.co.nz M 027 473 5855
Wylie
Gribbon
It's Time for a Change - Mahoenui Haven If you have been searching for that tranquil sanctuary that offers privacy and a property where the vendors have prioritised sustainable farming practices and the opportunity to harvest from the 580 chestnut trees, this is the property for you. Further income comes from dairy graziers and an ewe flock. The vendors have been leasing 40 hectares of neighbouring farmland. This 46-hectare haven offers a four bedroom homestead with fantastic views over the property and to the north and east. The access and water system is excellent throughout. The property borders the Awakino River.
GST (if any) (Unless Sold Prior) Closes 2.00pm, Friday
231 Hectares Dairy Unit Priced To Sell
If you are on the lookout for an affordable dairy or an attractive summer-safe cattle grazing block, this picturesque property situated on the foothills of the Pirongia Mountain offers serious value for money compared to most.
-231.4100 hectares (more or less) subject to survey
-Milking between 400 and 450 cows
-Good balance of contours
-40 aside Herringbone cowshed
-Numerous support buildings
-Three bedroom home and one bedroom cottage This property has a past track record of production exceeding 170,000 kg/ms from 540 cows which shows its capability. As a grazing or finishing block you won’t get much better.
For Sale $4,500,000
week Across
Difficult problem (5)
Grumpy person (6)
Grease (3) 8. Metallic element, Co (6)
Infuriates (6)
Message (13)
(13)
(6)
(6)
Signal (3)
Hold tightly (6)
Fortune-telling cards (5) Down
Picture (5)
Craving attention (5)
18th Century dance (6)
25. Has, 26. Grieve, 27. Tyrant.
Down: 2. Rebound, 3. Woo, 4. Emblem, 5. Fright, 6. Ingenious, 7. Haste, 12. Pulverise, 16. Tighten, 17. Seethe, 18.
Across: 1. Browse, 5. Flight, 8. Mar, 9. Absorb, 10. Ingest, 11. Quip, 13. Enhanced, 14. Oddly, 15. Dotty, 19. Careless, 21. Saga, 22. Thrift, 23. Ignite,
Assist, 20. Abhor, 24. Nor.
Te Awamutu 487 Pekanui Road
APPEAL
TRADE PROFESSIONALS
Les Te Kanawa Director 027 271 6167
Lorrene Te Kanawa Director 027 333 8531
Te Kanawa Director 027 271 6167
Les Te Kanawa • 027 271 6167
les.tk@xtra.co.nz www.1stscaffolding.co.nz
Lorrene Te Kanawa Director 027 333 8531
les.tk@xtra.co.nz www.1stscaffolding.co.nz
Lorrene Te Kanawa • 027 333 8531 les.tk@xtra.co.nz www.1stscaffolding.co.nz
Steve Knight - 027 598 2005 Tai Dundas - 027 598 2115
- 07 873 6385
Kūiti - 07 878 5169
07 378 8545
Become a Health Shuttle volunteer and support your community
Are you interested in a volunteering role, and have a passion for helping people? We’d love to hear from you. We have driving and non-driving roles.
Call our local office to find out more: 0800 846 9992 or email wakaora@stjohn.org.nz
Hato Hone St John’s purpose: To make life-changing differences with our communities Ka whai
College Canteen Management
We are looking for an experienced and passionate individual or business to manage the Ōtorohanga College canteen. This is a great opportunity to provide healthy, delicious meals and snacks to students and sta , while running a vibrant and essential part of our College community.
Key Responsibilities:
• Preparing and serving a range of nutritious meals and snacks
• Ensuring compliance with food safety and hygiene standards
• Providing friendly and e icient service to students and sta
• O ering a ordable and appealing menu options for all age groups
• Ability to work during College hours
If you are interested in this exciting opportunity, please contact the Principal, Lyndsay Kurth at kurthl@otocoll.school.nz by Thursday, November 14.
Ongarue School
A vacancy has arisen for an Office Administrator starting February 2025. The purpose of this position is to create a
and caring environment for students and their families while providing efficient administrative support. The role entails working collaboratively with the principal, teachers, Board of Trustees and finance team.
Experience is not necessary as on site training will be given prior to the job commencing. Excellent organisational skills, initiative, and the ability to connect positively with a range of people is essential. For more information and to apply for this role please contact Ongarue School on 07 894 5992 email office@ongarue.school.nz
ASSISTANT PROPERTY MANAGER
A position is available as an Assistant to our Senior Property Managers in Te Awamutu/Ōtorohanga/Te Kūiti.
Duties will include, but are not limited to, property and maintenance inspections, house viewings with potential tenants, tenancy agreement processing, liaising with tenants and landlords.
You will need strong attention to detail, excellent English and admin skills, be diligent and accurate, be honest and have integrity, be timeline focused and have a full NZ driver license. Company vehicle and phone supplied.
Monday to Friday 8.30am to 5pm. Salary by negotiation depending on experience. Our preference is for a local person from any of our towns who has good local knowledge.
Please email CV to melanie.barker@harcourts.co.nz Applications close: 5pm Thursday 7th November 2024.
Fencer General
Taumatamoana Station (TMS)
Are you passionate about Fencing and ready to take the next step in your career? Taumatamoana Station (TMS) is seeking a dynamic and experienced Fencer General to join our team! Taumata Moana has developed a ‘Farm Pride’ programme which encompasses all facets of highly motivated farming business with a culture of producing premium stock from top facilities
About the role:
• Position: Experienced Fencer General
• Location: Beautiful coastal property in the Waitomo District (75km west of Te Kuiti)
• Farm Size: 3400 HA sheep and beef property Located and hour from Otorohanga on the west coast.s
Responsibilities:
• Hands-on role working closely with the Station Manager and Livestock manager.
• Important that you have good fencing capabilities. We have the best equipment.
• Ensure all equipment is respected and looked after.
What we offer:
• Competitive salary package
• Tidy and recently renovated 3-bedroom house provided
• Opportunity to work on medium to steep hill country with a scenic coastal backdrop
Requirements:
• A strong work ethic
• Be a team player
• Display competent fencing workmanship
• A clean, tidy ‘can do’ attitude
• The ability to drive heavy machinery would be an advantage, (diggers dozers.)
• Dogs not required
If you’re looking for a challenging and rewarding role in a stunning location, we’d love to hear from you! Apply now and be part of a high-performing team dedicated to excellence in livestock management.
How to Apply: Submit your application, including a resume and cover letter, to tmsmanager@outlook.com by Friday, November 22. Please phone Brent for more information - 0272202161.
Join us at Taumatamoana Station and help shape the future of our high-performance livestock!
TE KŪITI CATTLE SALE
Friday, Nov 15
Special Entries:
A/C RD & L Oliver
25 Aut-Born 18mnth Hfrd/Frsn x strs
Contact Len Sheeran 027 473 5859
Garage Sale
SATURDAY, November 9 at 11am in conjunction with Tractor auction, 68 King St, Te Kūiti.
– New Head Coach for Piopio Senior Mens Rugby Team
Are you a passionate and experienced rugby coach looking for your next challenge?
Piopio senior mens are hunting for a dynamic Head Coach to lead our rugby team to new heights. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of the game, proven leadership skills, and a passion for supporting community rugby.
Key responsibilities:
• Develop and implement training programs to enhance player performance and team strategies.
• Lead the team in all matches, providing tactical and motivational support.
• Foster a positive and inclusive team culture that promotes sportsmanship and personal growth.
What we offer:
• A great team of players, keen to grow the club.
• Opportunities for professional growth and development.
• A supportive and enthusiastic team environment.
If you are ready to take on this exciting opportunity and drive our team to success, we would love to hear from you. For further details please enquire to piopiorugbyclub@gmail.com.
ADMINISTRATOR – Infrastructure Services
waitomo.govt.nz RATES
We’re on the hunt for an exceptional selfmotivated administrator to join our team. This role sits within our Infrastructure Services Group and will provide high quality administrative and asset management support. You will have a strong work ethic, excellent attention to detail and communication skills, be tech savvy and most importantly a ”can do” attitude.
You will have a minimum of 2 years’ experience working in an administrative role and be proficient in the use of Microsoft Office Tools. Previous experience in contract management, asset data capture and an analytical background would be advantageous.
Our people are fundamental to our success. We are a committed team, and our values are the foundation of our organisational culture: teamwork, positivity, bold and brave, compassion, integrity and community minded.
027 290 8776 - 07 873 9104 decorator@daverowe.co.nz
Specialising in re-roofing, roof maintenance, downpipes and light
027 493 2502
Servicing the Waipa and Waitomo districts for over 20 years
Property maintenance and construction Lawns, trees, stump grinding, sections, moss & mould treatments, Chemwash,
Wanted
Situations Vacant
GARDENING
BLOOMING BEAUTIES AND PLANTS THAT THRIVE
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.
$45,000 Cambridge telephone 07 823 3576
Te Kuiti and District Memorial RSA FOR OUR FREEDOM LEST WE FORGET
Armistice Day Commemoration Monday, November 11
Te Kuiti fire siren will sound at 1100 hours Wreaths will be laid at the Te Kūiti Cenotaph Followed by the Last Post and Ode Address by Mayor John Robertson Blessing by Pastor Terry Bradley Attendance welcome please assemble at Cenotaph at 10.45
Public Notices
To whom it may concern
As we are past Labour Day, which is traditional milestone for planting out our New Zealand Summer veggies gardens, now is the perfect time to get your homegrown goodness in the ground.
Your Soil prep is the foundation of a thriving happy garden. Start by clearing out any winter weeds and old crop remnants.
Incorporate plenty of compost or well-rotted manure to enrich the soil with organic matter.
This not only improves soil structure but also boosts its nutrient content, ensuring your plants have everything they need to grow strong and healthy.
Once your soil is all yummy next comes the fun part choosing what to plant - With the risk of frosts hopefully past and the soil warming up there is a wide range of summer crops that you can sow directly into your garden.
Some seeds that you can sow direct are Beans, Corn, Cucumbers, Zucchini, Pumpkins, Melons, (although I like to start them in little peat pots that you can plant straight into the ground once sprouted?)
Radishes, carrots, beetroot, peas.
Or pop into your local garden center and grab some punnets, I like to put a few sheep pellets in each hole when planting.
Once you have planted everything water the whole garden well.
To conserve that moisture now and every time you water or it runs, I would recommend mulching around your plants with some pea straw, not only does it keep the moisture in it contributes to your soils health when it breaks down.
While your garden begins to grow so does the activity of pests, like white butterfly, slugs and snails.
Natural remedies like neem oil or you can make up a homemade spray as below to manage aphids, white butterfly. For slugs and snails go out into your garden at dusk and you will be surprised to see how many have come out to play, gather them all up an pop in a bucket of beer, salted water or if you have chooks they love a meaty delight.
Garlic Spray – Crush several cloves of garlic, add 1 litre of boiling water, leave to cool, then strain through a sieve. Add 1 teaspoon of washing liquid to help the spray stick to the leaves. Pour into a little spray bottle and start spraying.
Please be advised that Ototoika block A18 (Urupa) cemetery is now under new management and entry now to Urupa is Ototoika Rd. New fences have been erected so absolutely NO boundry fences are to be moved or cut for any reason.
Further enquires please contact Mere 044 903 7571 Christine 045 530 3546.
8th, 9th & 10th 15th, 16th & 17th 21st, 22nd, 23rd & 24th
NOVEMBER 2024
Reach a targeted rural and lifestyle audience each month by advertising your business in King Country Farmer: featured inside the King Country News as its own liftout.
Theatre International (Australasia)
Little Theatre King Street West Te Kuiti Public Notice
Katrina Christison
Tidy Gardens
WEEKLY SCHEDULE ON OUR WEBSITE
Meetings
NAPINAPI PĀ TRUST ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING (AGM
)
Date: Sunday, December 1, 2024 Time: 10AM
Venue: Napinapi Pā, 57 Napinapi Road, Te Mapara, Piopio
Agenda: Full Election of Trustees
Nomination Process:
• Trustee nomination forms are available from the Māori Land Court (MLC). Please contact them at WMNCourt@ justice.govt.nz
• Completed nomination forms must be received by the MLC no later than November 24, 2024 (one week before the AGM).
• Forms may be scanned and emailed directly to the MLC at WMNCourt@justice.govt.nz
All members are encouraged to attend. Your participation is vital for the success of our Pā. Please bring a plate for shared kai.
Classifieds
Jobs, terrific bargains, useful services, legal notices and announcements – these are some of the great things you’ll find in your newspaper’s classified ad section.
Connect to your neighbours in a proven reliable way.
When buyers and sellers need to connect…
This is notice that a MEETING for the uri of Huia Tawake and Rauputu Tumokemoke the owners of ACCESS BLOCK LOT 1 DEPOSITED PLAN 10776
is scheduled to be held on Saturday, November 30, 2024 @10.30am Mokaukohunui Marae, Piopio. The main purpose of the meeting is to discuss and decide transferring the land back to Māori Land.
Nau mai haere mai RSVP by Nov 25
You can contact Harata Manawaiti: 021 150 5446 E: hmanawaiti1@gmail.com or Alicia Fraser 027 485 2034
E: waynefraser@xtra.co.nz
Ōtorohanga Remembrance/ Armistice Day Service
The Ōtorohanga RSA invites you to attend the Remembrance/Armistice Day Service on Monday, November 11, 2024 at the Ōtorohanga Memorial Park, starting at 1100hours.
RUAPUHA UEKAHA HAPU TRUST (Hauturu East 8)
Primary, Intermediate and Secondary Grants 2025 School Year
Education Grant Round NOW OPEN
Karanga mai - calling all descendants of Tanetinorau Opataia, Te Aroa Haami Haereiti, Te Riutoto Aihe & Whatakaraka. You are invited to apply for education grants in the following areas; Primary, Intermediate and Secondary grants for 2025 school year
You can download a application form from the RUHT website www.ruht.co.nz or by contacting educationgrants@ruht.co.nz.
To be eligible for a grant you must be registered with the Ruapuha Uekaha Hapu Trust. Before applying if you are unsure whether your children are registered, please email register@ruht.co.nz.
Applications close Friday, 06 December 24. LATE APPLICATIONS WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED.
For all queries phone 0800 525 626 or email educationgrants@ruht.co.nz.
Letters to the Editor
• Letters should not exceed 200 words
• They should be opinion based on facts or current events
• All letters to be emailed to editor@goodlocal.nz
• No noms-de-plume
• Letters will be published with names
• Please include full name, address and contact details for our records only
• Letters may be edited, abridged, or rejected at the editor’s discretion
• The editor’s decision on publication is final.
Te Kūiti Community House Trust AGM
Monday, November 18, 2024
5.15pm at 28 Taupiri St, Te Kūiti
AGM
Tuesday, November 19 at 6pm at the squash clubrooms
PHOTOS FOR SALE
Call into our King St East, Te Kuiti office today to view them and place your order!
Memoriam
VARGA, Jonos (John): 23.9.1942 – 8.11.2023. I have to hide my heartache when someone speaks your name. You did so many things for me, your heart was so kind and true. I miss our dancing, our laughter. Our special years will not return but the love in my heart will last forever. Love always, Colleen.
VARGA, Jonos (John): 23.9.1942 –8.11.2023. Of all the special gifts in life, to have you as our friend was the greatest gift of all. Our Patron, a true gentleman. Miss you on the dance floor. Forever in our hearts. Your Rock n Roll Family.
ATUTAHI, Diane Jeanette: Peacefully at Hillview Home, Te Kūiti on Saturday, November , 2024, surrounded by her loving family. Dearly loved wife of the late Thompson. Adored mother and mother-in-law of Maru (dec); Lucy (dec) and Bryan; Thompson (Jr) and Trina; Kim; and Sam. Cherished nana of all her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Loved sister of Lynette and Barry (dec). A family farewell has been held followed by a private cremation. All communications to Atutahi Family C/- PO Box 241, Te Kūiti 3941. VJ Williams & Sons, Funeral Directors Association of NZ.
Thanks
Te Kūiti Community House Trust
HAZELTON, Barry Clarence: Unexpectedly at Waikato Hospital on Wednesday October 30, 2024. Aged 70 years. Dearly loved husband of the late Thelma. Baby brother of Joy and Kevin. Adored father and father-in-law of Bruce and Jamie; Ken and Nikki; Dave and Amber; Albot and Bethaney; J.J and Carrie; Reece and Stacey. Cherished Poppa of Tyler, Shalise, Dan, Jaye, Steph, Jade, Maddox, Karneith, Shellae, Crawford, Summer, Jordan, Damon, Liam, Connor, Deeana, Bella, MacKenzie, Whetu, Riley, Marlee, Niah, Ari and Jack. Great grandfather of Aidan, Ava, Skylar, Amara. Proud father of Bear. A celebration of Barry’s life has been held. Tributes can be left on our website www.vjwilliams. co.nz/funerals-tributes. All communications to Hazelton Family C/- PO Box 241, Te Kūiti 3941. VJ Williams & Sons, Funeral Directors Association of NZ.
The trustees, Lorrene Te Kanawa (chair), Kevin Forgeson, Patsy Roach, Dede Downs, Debbie Harrison, Lisa Marshall, Tanya Williams and co-ordinator, Desiree Brown would like to acknowledge and
Funders and Sponsors of the Te Kuiti Community House Trust: Lottery Waikato Community Fund
Waitomo District Council COGS
DV Bryant Trust
Smith Mitchell Chartered Accountants McCaw Lewis Lawyers Wireless Dynamics Rotomara Holdings Ltd
8685
JONES Michael Tahiwi (Mike): Suddenly at home in Ōtorohanga on Thursday, October 31, 2024. Aged 81 years. Husband of the late Val Jones (née Rolston). Adored father and father-in-law of Murray and Annie Jones; Kim and Arnold van Straalen. Cherished Grandad (Gdad) of Kendall, Tori,Michael, Ashley, Bronté, Ella-May and great grandfather to be.
Moe mai râ e te pâpâ i roto i te aroha me te rangimârie A celebration of Mike’s life has been held. All communications to Jones Family C/- PO Box 241, Te Kūiti 3941. VJ Williams & Sons, Funeral Directors Association of NZ VJ Williams & Sons, Funeral Directors Association of NZ.
ROUNTREE, Heather: After a very long illness, finally at peace. Loved wife of Jeff, step-mum to Zane, Helen and the late Wayde. Thanks to the amazing care at Rangiura home in Putaruru.
OTOROHANGA
Murray Hunt Furnishers make your flooring renovation a stressless enjoyable experience by working with people who know the business and offer competitive prices.
Our Flooring business has been based on Trust and Experience for about Sixty years. The people who create this enjoyable experience are our layers and shop staff directly involved with your flooring.
We are a ‘Bricks and Mortar’ business eg we don't work out of a van we have a large shop which you can call into and discuss with us your sample choices.
We offer free measure and quotation service to Otorohanga, Te Kuiti and their surrounding areas.
Our Layers, lay domestic Vinyl/ Carpet/ Hard flooring and Garage Carpet and all aspects of Commercial Vinyl /Carpet Tiles and Autex soft wall coverings.
Our combined team of layers and shop flooring Staff have 124 years experience in the flooring trade.
All our flooring products are supported by the suppliers guarantee and our layers guarantee their work.
Peter Neustroski
Greg Hunt
Kevin Hodges
Johnny Carver