Cambridge News | April 24, 2025

Conviction for illegal drainlaying

By Mary Anne Gill

It took Ursela Beasley seven months to decide Cambridge would be her “forever home.”

The born-and-bred Aucklander sold her Gulf Harbour house north of Auckland just before Covid hit in 2020 and travelled the country for seven months looking for somewhere to spend the rest of her life.

A chance experience with a couple in the Briscoes Cambridge branch – “they actually spoke to me, nobody speaks to you like that in Auckland” – sealed the deal.

She decided to buy a house in Cambridge.

Even now, four years later, her view of Cambridge has not changed despite months of legal action culminating in the prosecution of Liam Walker - the man she bought her home from - at the Hamilton District Court earlier this month.

Walker was sentenced under the Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayer Act for completing illegal drainlaying work on the house he sold to Beasley. He was ordered to pay her $4319 in

reparation and fined $500.

The 69-year-old mother of two and grandmother of three was a successful business practitioner in Auckland when she made the move to Cambridge looking to take things a bit easier.

The house was the fourth she had owned in the last 20 years and because it was new, she did not get a builders’ report - a detailed assessment of a property’s structural integrity and condition.

It would not have mattered anyway, Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Board (board) chief executive Aleyna Hall said.

“Sadly in Ms Beasley’s case a building report probably wouldn’t have shown the underground drainlaying work wasn’t up to code and the issues presented themselves slowly over time.”

“I’d worked hard all my life and I was going to be well off comfortably here in Cambridge. I was going to focus on me for the first time,” Beasley told The News.

Instead, the last four years have been spent on legal action – there is more to come and because it is currently before the court, she is unable to comment further.

The stress has had an impact. “Both my health and retirement have been stolen as I have to single-handedly deal with this.”

Walker built the house in Cambridge. The News is unable to reveal where for legal reasons.

A certifying plumber, gasfitter and drainlayer completed work at the property.

After they left, Walker installed an onsite wastewater treatment system, which involved putting in pipework from the septic tank into a distribution box that then split four pipes through two effluent fields.

Walker covered the PVC pipe work with drainage metal and covered that with a geotextile cloth before backfilling the pipework.

Only an authorised person can do that work, the board told Judge Nevin Dawson.

When she moved in, Beasley noticed issues with the wastewater system, the board said in a media statement after sentencing.

“I was not provided with any warranties, guarantees or manuals by Mr Walker. I obtained the property files from council

Ursela Beasley says the stress has impacted her health.

Photo: Mary Anne Gill

Continued on page 2

Does your lawn look like this?

DOCTOR

Conviction for illegal drainlaying

Continued from page1

and contacted the drainlayer who did the drainage plans. They confirmed the second plan with the additions was not done by them or submitted by them,” said Beasley. She excavated the sewerage system to survey what work had been done, and discovered the set up did not match the plans.

The work Walker did posed a health risk

‘Saving the planet one lawn at a time.’ 0800 362

Time is money

to the next person the house was sold to, said the board. Judge Dawson considered the offending to be moderately serious given the health and safety risk the work posed.

“The effluent fields Mr Walker installed were deeper than the approved design. This compromised the wastewater system and risked untreated effluent entering the storm water system and being carried to the front section of the property, where members of the public could have been exposed to it. This is why only registered plumbers, gasfitters, and drainlayers should carry out this work,” said Hall.

Beasley alerted the board to the illegal work which successfully sought a conviction under the Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayer Act 2006. Unauthorised drainlaying has a maximum fine of $10,000.

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‘Saving the planet one lawn at a time.’

On Wednesday April 9, I passed the road works in Cambridge Rd a number of times. I noticed five personnel directing traffic, two large earth/road machines, parked up, and no activity on site, i.e. no progress. Estimated costs for the day $4000 plus. I again noticed the same on April 15, no significant progress. What is essentially an eight-month project at most, we are now over two years. At whose cost?

Stu Barnett RD3 Hamilton (abridged)

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Roy Pilott editor@goodlocal.nz

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Mary Anne Gill maryanne@goodlocal.nz

021 705 213

Viv Posselt viv@goodlocal.nz

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“It is great to see the board takes unqualified work very seriously,” said Beasley.

She does not regret moving to Cambridge despite what has happened. She has joined a couple of clubs and cherishes the friendliness of people she encounters everywhere she goes.

“This is where I want to be.”

Duck season hints

I hope everyone has had a good Easter break and the bad weather did not impact your plans too much. I, like many, took a week off from work and enjoyed time with family.

Let’s catch up on some recent good catches. Police were called to a male actively assaulting both a staff member and security at a local pub. On our arrival, the offender was found nearby. He was intoxicated, aggressive and non-cooperative. He was arrested and faced charges in court as a result.

In another incident, we received a report of a heated argument happening between a couple in a vehicle travelling in the Karāpiro area. The male had punched the female multiple times in the arm. When she exited the vehicle, the male then drove away. A full report was taken and the male, along with the vehicle were subsequently located.

This interaction was beneficial as it enabled police to engage with the victim and uncovered additional instances of assault which had been previously unreported by her.

The male was arrested and faces family harm charges in court accordingly.

Being a police officer requires ongoing upskilling and training, as well as regular

recertification and qualification in different areas (eg use of OC spray, baton, handcuffing, taser and firearms). I have recently completed my regular firearms recertification to maintain my competency.

With duck shooting season approaching, I want to take the opportunity to remind all about the safe use of firearms. It is mandatory for first time firearms licence applicants - and those whose licence expired over a year prior - to complete and pass a firearms safety course. The cardinal rules of firearm safety apply in all situations however:

• Treat every firearm as loaded • always point firearms in a safe direction • chamber a cartridge only when ready to fire

• identify your target with certainty.

As well as what is above and around it (never fire based on movement or sound alone), store and transport firearms securely and with ammunition separate and finally drugs, alcohol and firearms do not mix.

Be sure that you are up to date on the legal requirements around the use and storage of firearms. Holding a firearms licence is a privilege that should be respected.

with Senior Constable DEB HANN

The onsite wastewater treatment system Liam Walker installed which was only discovered when Ursela Beasley paid for a digger to do excavation work.

Photo: Supplied.

Rural women

Waikato Provincial Rural

Women NZ is searching for historic photographs of Waikato farms to use in a slide show celebrating a century of the organisation.

The Women’s Farmers Union started in 1925, became Women’s Division Federated Farmers in 1945, and assumed its current name after 1999. The organisation is celebrating 100 years of rural women and 132 years of women’s suffrage in New Zealand on September 19 at Mystery Creek.

New trustee

Taylor Made Community Space Trust has appointed Ruth Crampton as their new trustee replacing Rob Feisst who died last year. Crampton comes to the trust with a strong marketing and communications background, a skill that the board was keen to recruit.

Helping hands

People among the community who roll up their sleeves most often are being asked to put up their hands up with nominations for the annual Volunteering Waikato Volunteer Awards. Celebrating outstanding contributions, the awards include eight categories to cover a wide range of mahi being done by volunteers.

SADD conference

The annual Students Against Dangerous Driving (SADD) conference opened in Cambridge on Tuesday and finishes today. Youth advocacy is an incredibly important part of keeping young people safe, especially in local communities. Student leaders from across the region and wider North Island came together to celebrate 40 years of peer-led road safety action.

Charges reviewed

Waipā District Council is reviewing its fees and charges to ensure that everyone who uses its services contributes fairly. While most of the adjustments reflect inflation, there are a few exceptions where the actual costs weren’t being fully recovered.

Into the light

By Mary Anne Gill

It was one of those spiritual moments that even hardened atheists would appreciate.

As the sun rose on Easter Sunday over St Paul’s in Rangiaowhia, parishioners inside the historic church celebrated Service of the Light.

They could see the years of fundraising and sacrifice that went into restoring the stained glass windows at the eastern end of the building.

Rev Julie Guest’s figure became a silhouette as sunlight streamed through the windows onto the altar while she prepared for communion.

“The man who put these windows in said it made the light dynamic,” Guest told the congregation at the service which also doubled as a rededication for the stained glass altar windows. The windows have been refurbished at least four

times.

Before 2023, the last refurbishment was 30 years ago.

Originally imported in 1855 from Britain by Bishop George Selwyn, they were housed in the Gothic Revival church at Rangiaowhia.

Two of the windows depict St Paul’s encounter with a magician which, according to Heritage New Zealand, may reflect hopes for Christian victory over the perceived ‘supernatural’ traditional beliefs of the church’s then predominantly Māori congregation.

Each window was removed 16 months ago and taken to Christchurch where Stewart Stained Glass meticulously cleaned and restored them.

The church is part of the Parish of St John’s which owns two Heritage New Zealand category one buildings – St Paul’s and old St John’s in Te Awamutu. St John’s opened in 1854 and St

Paul’s two years later.

Guest is the parish priest while lay minister Christine Bryant is also a handy organist who played the hymns on Easter Sunday with great gusto during the light service.

Corflute replicas had been installed in the windows’ place. Guest said many people could not tell the difference while they were up, but they would have that morning, she said, as she showed them to The News in their storage space and wondered what would happen to them now.

The Service of the Light is part of the Easter Vigil which starts – either the night before Easter Sunday or as a sunrise service on the day – and in silence outside the darkened church.

At St Paul’s, Guest’s husband Andrew lit a small fire on the lawn away from the wooden church while Paul Bryant, husband of lay minister Christine, brought the Paschal Candle in to be lit.

In the eastern distance a misty cloud hung over Maunga Maungatautari.

The candle traditionally symbolises Jesus Christ rising from the dead and the congregation each had their own candles which they lit from the larger one and carried into the church filling it with light before sunrise at 6.49am.

“We thank you (God) that they are now fully restored, ready to bring life to your light in this place for decades to come,” said Guest at the rededication part of the service.

She also paid tribute to Colin Downes from the parish who with a team rebuilt the arches around the windows so they could be held more securely in place.

Before her sermon she noted how things had changed in a year – then Trust Board chair Alan Empson made one of the readings – he died in May

last year.

Rev Keith Storey was there in Easter 2024 too and he died in September with donations in lieu of a memorial service going to the St Paul’s Restoration Fund and the stained glass windows.

His plaque is outside the church with others of the Storey family, including his wife Delysse who died two years before.

Tia Ormsby van Selm from Ngāti Apakura was at the service and afterwards told The News of how Ngāti Apakura and Ngāti Hinetū iwi now wanted to build a wharenui (traditional Māori meeting house) at Rangiaowhia as part of a

process of self-determination and cultural revitalisation.

The Anglican Church bought a 4.7ha property next to the church three years ago and transferred the deed to Ngāti Apakura to support the tribe’s vision to make Rangiaowhia a thriving settlement again.

Rangiaowhia was a Māori economic heartland - with a racecourse, courthouse and mills which processed wheat and other produce for the Auckland market - before it was invaded by British troops in 1864 during the New Zealand Land Wars.

All that survived was St Paul’s Church.

• More photos cambridgenews.nz

Jono Gibson Funeral Director

The silhouetted figure of Rev Julie Guest in front of the restored stained glass windows as the sun rises over St Paul’s in Rangiaowhia.

Photo: Mary Anne Gill

After the Service of the Light service, Rev Julie Guest, right, and lay minister Christine Bryant. Photo: Mary Anne Gill

Bryn's on the fast track

By Steph Bell-Jenkins

What drives you?

Bryn Jones stares down at the wooden surface of the coffee table and exhales slowly. He looks to his left, his blue eyes full of concentration.

“I’d really, really have to think about that.”

After about 15 seconds of quiet contemplation, he has the answer: “Just trying to be the best I can.”

Jones, born and bred in Cambridge, is a passionate petrol-head gunning for the top echelons of world rally driving.

“What we do in rallying, that’s what I want to do,” he said.

“I want to travel the world driving rally cars. I wish I could do it every day.”

He’s on the right track.

In 2022, Jones was one of five young New Zealand drivers to win entry to the Winmax Junior Driver Programme – a collaboration between Winmax Brake Pads and Paddon Racing Group.

Since then, he’s been receiving coaching and mentoring by one of Aotearoa’s most successful drivers, seven-time New Zealand Rally Championship winner Hayden

Paddon.

“Hayden has shared a wealth of knowledge with me and been a huge support,” the 23-year-old former Cambridge High School student said.

During his time with Paddon, Jones has picked up two major titles – 2023 Motorsport New Zealand Junior Driver Champion and 2024 New Zealand Rally Championship 2WD Junior Champion.

Last year, he won a coveted spot in the Dunedin-based Elite Motorsport Academy of New Zealand, where he strapped in for an intensive week-long camp that tested his physical and mental limits.

“They put us in a 40-degree heat chamber with 50 per cent humidity in a racing simulator and they made us run up Baldwin Street,” he said.

“But it was such a valuable experience –and when I got accepted I was like, finally, someone is starting to notice my capabilities. It was that next step in my racing career that I needed. A lot of top motorsport drivers like Hayden Paddon have gone through the academy and gone on to race at top levels on the world stage.”

Jones loves everything about his sport – the sense of speed, pushing his car to its limits, the adrenaline rush of ripping down a gravel road at 170km per hour.

“When you put the helmet on, everything just seems to fade away,” he said. “You’ve got one job and you’re just there to do it. There’s nothing else I can really compare it to.”

Passionate, driven and emotional are the three words he uses to sum himself up.

How would his friends describe him?

“A pain in the arse probably,” he laughs. “That’s a question you’d have to ask them.”

The local tyre technician, who enjoys gaming and hanging out with mates in his spare time, caught the racing bug from his father Anthony aged seven.

He patiently waited for his 12th birthday, got his motorsport licence and started off in a Ford Escort Mk1, competing in clubsport events and moving on to stage rallies in 2018.

This month, Jones launched full throttle into the 2025 New Zealand Rally Championship, which began on April 3 in Otago, in his Ford Fiesta Rally4, built by MSport Poland.

He and co-driver Sean Lockyear, who are entering their third season together, finished first in their FIA (Federation Internationale

de l’Automobile) two-wheel drive class and 13th overall in the high-profile two-day event.

Jones and Lockyear will also compete in South Canterbury, Canterbury, Coromandel, Bay of Plenty and Whangarei in this year’s New Zealand Rally Championship.

They were overall runners-up in 2023 and finished third last year after a frustrating start to the season hampered by mechanical issues.

For Jones, competing in this year’s championship is one step further toward his goal of taking on the world.

“There’s still a lot of work to do to get to that point,” he said. “But there’s definitely a possibility I could do it.”

Bryn Jones takes a corner during the Otago Rally. Photo: Geoff Ridder

Cambridge driver Bryn Jones, right, and his co-driver Sean Lockyear with the car’s new car wrap at the Otago Rally where they won their class. Photo: Geoff Ridder

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Dairy farmers worse off under levy rise

By Chris Gardner

Drought stricken Waikato dairy farmers will be an average $1400 worse off next season after DairyNZ announced a 25 per cent increase in its levy.

From June 1 the organisation will collect a levy of 4.5 cents per

kilogramme of milk solids, 0.9 of a cent more than the last 16 seasons.

The rise means the average Waikato dairy farmer producing about 160,000 kilogrammes of milk solids will pay DairyNZ $7200 – $1400 more than previously.

While milk production

is up six per cent across the region, according to Fonterra, many farmers are being forced to dry off their herds about a month early due to the lack of rain and grass growth.

The rise followed a monthlong consultation process in which 18 percent of farmers turned out to a dozen

meetings and were asked if they would prefer a rise between 4.4 and 4.6 cents to maintain current science and research programmes and meet financial obligations or 4.7 and 5 cents to expand investment in science and research to keep ahead of challenges.

Waikato Federated

They need us say Feds

By Chris Gardner

King Country River

Care chair Reon Verry says farmers needs to be seen as stakeholders by Waikato Regional Council.

Verry, also Waikato Federated Farmers Meat and Wool chair who farms south of Te Kūiti, contributed to a debate at this month’s Waikato Federated Farmers executive meeting on how the relationship between the regional council and farmers could be better.

“We need to be seen as a stakeholder,” he said.

“It’s not just regional council, it’s all district councils,” North Waikato Federated branch chair Chris Woolerton said. Woolerton started the

debate by bringing a remit before the executive asking for the organisation to instigate a joint management agreement with the council to ensure that the agricultural sector’s voice was fully heard.

Woolerton said farmers wanted a better relationship with the council.

“They are not getting traction, they are getting bypassed, they are not talking to them,” he said.

Federated Farmers is expecting the outcome of its appeal against the council’s wide-sweeping set of rules for agricultural land use next month.

“May will see an interim Plan Change One decision which will find the

Waikato Regional Council scrambling to get their house in order,” Verry said.

“It will take months for the decision to register with most farmers, if at all, and then there may be some angst.

“I’m not sure there will be anything finalised this year as far as actions from farmers are concerned.”

Plan Change One sought to improve freshwater quality in the Waikato and Waipā River catchments. It will apply to around 10,000 properties and a land area of 1.1 million hectares within the two catchments. The plan change is a requirement from a Parliamentary Act and River Iwi Treaty Settlement. Federated Farmers appealed against which

waterbodies stock need to be excluded from, setback distances, how critical source areas are identified and managed, and how often fertiliser spreaders need to be calibrated.

FRIDAY 29TH NOVEMBER 8AM

Waikato Federated Farmers president Keith Holmes said Woolerton’s draft was applicable to all regional councils.

Verry also wanted to know what Woolerton meant by a joint management agreement.

Vice president Phil Sherwood said Woolerton was really after a memorandum of understanding and asked for the remit to be redrafted and brought back to the provincial annual general meeting.

Farmers president Keith Holmes was concerned with the low turnout.

“They are not connecting,” he told the branch’s executive at its April meeting.

“There was a mediocre response from those who are paying it,” said Waikato Federated Farmers Dairy chair Matthew Zonderop.

“It’s on the feedback 18 per cent. It’s still up to Federated Farmers to sit down with them.

“In fairness, it has not gone up in 16 years and we would not have the dairy industry we have today without DairyNZ’s research.”

“What right have they got to put the levy up?” asked North Waikato Federated

Farmers branch chair Chris Woolerton.

“I understood it was only a discussion document.”

Cambridge dairy farmer and economics and finance spokesman Garry Reymer said the increase in milk production between 2009 and now would have led to increased revenue for DairyNZ.

The production of milk solids went from approximately 1.4 billion kilogrammes of milk solids in 2009 to 1.9 billion kilogrammes last year.

Waikato Federated Farmers executive resolved to invite DairyNZ chief executive Cameron Parker to its next meeting, alongside board chair Tracy Brown and board member Chris Lewis.

Dairy NZ is not connecting with farmers, says Waikato Federated Farmers president Keith Holmes.

DairyNZ could have handled a levy rise better, says its board chair Tracy Brown.

Empty chair for honoured freemason

By Viv Posselt

Cambridge-based freemasons farewelled one of their own this month at an unusual ceremony that dates back to the late 1800s.

The ‘Empty Chair’ ceremony was performed by Lodge Copernicus members to mark the passing of John Mace. The longstanding freemason, who was awarded his masonic 60-year service badge in 2021, had been central to a fundraising initiative that saw the 12 Waikato Masonic lodges collaborate to support the Waikato-HaurakiCoromandel Rural Support Trust to the tune of $26,000.

Lodge Copernicus led the fundraising efforts

by making a significant donation to the Rural Support Trust. That was further supported by the other Waikato lodges and the Freemasons Charity. Their donation to the Rural Trust is the third by Lodge Copernicus. The money will be used to fund professional help for Rural Support clients, ensuring access to vital services such as mental health support, financial advice and crisis management.

John Mace’s widow, Kaye Lillico, attended the rarelyseen Empty Chair ceremony, as did Freemason’s Waikato District Grand Master Len Jeffrey, and Matamata-based Wanda Leadbeater, who was representing the Waikato Hauraki Coromandel Rural Support Trust. Mace, who died in Auckland on December 29, was well known in the farming, timber processing and swimming fraternities. He was also a life member of Swimming NZ, and in 2018 was named a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to swimming in the New Year’s Honours list. He had served as vice president and then president of the NZ Swimming Federation from 1992-1996

and was Chef de Mission for the NZ Aquatic Team in Rome in 1994, overseeing swimming, diving, water polo and synchronised swimming. He played a leading role in restructuring the sport; that led to the review of Swimming NZ in 2012, and to his election as president of Swimming NZ until 2015.

Mace’s journey with freemasonry started in Taumarunui in 1961.

He later became a member of two Auckland lodges before joining Cambridge’s Lodge Copernicus in 2008 as a trustee and a founding member.

He played a pivotal role in the lodge’s charitable work and was a strong advocate for its donations to the Rural Support Trust, which has gratefully acknowledged the support, saying it makes a significant difference in the lives of those navigating challenging times.

The Empty Chair ceremony is understood to date back to around 1875, a decade after the close of the American Civil War, when it was used in Masonic lodges to pay tribute to those who did not return from the war. It has since been used by many lodges to pay homage

to members whose lives are lost in war.

This month’s ceremony, which was characterised by ritual and precision, saw an empty chair brought into the lodge as a symbol of Mace’s spiritual presence. After addresses by various members of the lodge, his masonic apron was placed on the chair, then members

and guests filed past placing springs of acacia on the apron.

In his eulogy, Lodge member Warwick Roberts said John Mace’s membership had been unwavering until his passing.

“He served as Master in the 2011/12 year, and his leadership was characterised

by compassion and integrity,” he said. “He understood the importance of service to others and worked tirelessly to achieve that end.”

Past Master Marc Dresser, under whose leadership the funds were raised, thanked the Rural Support Trust for the work it does in rural communities.

The latest addition to the Industry Training Works (ITW) network, the purpose-built centre runs a comprehensive range of courses, the company’s sales and marketing manager, Jenna Daniels, explains.

“Our founders, Alan Mycroft and Bob Durham, were both in the NZ Fire Service for more than 20 years. During that time, they witnessed so many preventable workplace accidents and injuries that they knew they had to do something about it. So, in 2008, they founded ITW.”

From basic health and safety through to working at heights, working with hazardous substances, first aid and occupational health checks, ITW’s courses cover various specialist industries and tasks.

“We train teams from solo tradies through to large, heavy industrial businesses. Our courses are developed for high-risk industries, including factories, mills and manufacturing plants as well as the construction, rural and forestry sectors. ITW’s training centres are designed to replicate a wide range of industry environments and common workplace scenarios. Each space is adaptable, ensuring training can be tailored to meet

the specific needs of individual clients.

“Our courses are never ‘one size fits all’,” says Jenna. “Everything we do focuses on delivering the right mix of knowledge, hands-on training, and equipment for each unique workplace.”

The centres feature practical training bays that simulate working at heights, working in confined spaces, and working with machinery – among other high-risk tasks. However, the setups are flexible, allowing ITW to customise training to suit different industries, sites, and teams.

Many courses are also available online, and ITW’s team of subject matter experts can deliver training on site when required.

“It’s not always possible to replicate a client’s exact workplace,” Jenna explains. “That’s why we’re ready to go to them. With the opening of our new Harrison Drive centre in Te Awamutu, we’ve expanded our reach and can now deliver training across the King Country, Waipa, Waikato and the Bay of Plenty.”

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requirements. Workplace training is regularly reviewed so the company can continue to meet and exceed industry standards. ITW’s three training centres – Tokoroa, Kawerau and Te Awamutu – provide the ideal base for its experienced team.

“No matter the scale or nature of the training you require, the first step is to give us a call. We will discuss your needs and develop a plan to suit,” Jenna adds. “By the time our job is done, we know your workers will thank you for being so committed to their safety.”

Industry Training Works is proud to open the doors to our new Te Awamutu premises — a fresh space to continue empowering health and safety in the community.

Home sweet home — even the scissor lift’s feeling comfy in our new Te Awamutu spot!

The ‘Empty Chair’ placed for the late John Mace, bearing his masonic apron and sprigs of acacia. It is flanked by the Rural Support Trust’s Wanda Leadbeater, left, Mace’s widow Kaye Lillico, and the Lodge’s Past Master Marc Dresser. Photo: Viv Posselt

John Mace at his investiture in 2018.

Board neutral on water option

By Chris Gardner

The consultation process surrounding the formation of a seven-council controlled water authority has been described as a bitter pill to swallow.

Te Awamutu-Kihikihi

Community board member Sally Whitaker said she felt like Waipā District Council’s consultation was only happening with the community because legislation required it.

“I find that a bitter pill to swallow,” she said at last week’s board meeting.

“It would have been nice to see the community brought along with the whole process. I don’t feel that the public feels very involved or that they have had information.

“I just think it’s a sad indictment on things when we are wanting localism, community involvement and win-win, it looks like we’re box ticking.”

“I hear you on this one,” replied Waipā Service Delivery group manager Dawn Inglis, who recently resigned from the council executive.

“We have tried. We have put out media releases, we have created a website, through Waikato Water Done Well equally there is a site that’s been made available, we’ve tried to introduce conversations with our community around the management of water so that people were informed as

we moved into this phase, so we’ve tried pretty hard in raising awareness ahead of this,” she said.

The government’s Local Water Done Well legislation required councils to consult with their communities on an enhanced, in-house, status quo option versus their own preferred option.

Board chair Ange Holt described the council’s consultation document as “a leg up” as council staff had whittled down the information for community digestion.

Board deputy chair Kane Titchener was worried Waipā ratepayers could end up subsidising the six other councils in Waikato Water Done Well and asked why Waipā had not decided to go it alone.

“Waikato Water Done Well is not proposing to harmonise water charges across consumers wider than council units,” Inglis said.

“There will be a ring fencing of cost to those consumers.”

“I’m thinking about control,” Titchener said.

“We’re losing control here.”

He proposed dumping Waikato Water Done Well in favour of a shared services agreement.

“I guess I am just challenging that efficiency, and I think we can get it another way.”

Inglis said the council had already tried Titchener’s approach.

“It didn’t bring cost efficiencies, but provided some great training

opportunities.”

Titchener wanted to know where water staff would be located.

Inglis could not answer that.

“We have yet to work through what that transition period looks like,” she said.

Titchener also wanted to know whether there was room in the legislation to follow international best practice around fluoridation if it were to change.

Inglis said it remained the responsibility of the Director General of Health.

Titchener was also worried that the legislation could enable privatisation.

“Absolutely not,” Inglis replied.

Holt described her deputy’s line of questioning as a “good work out”.

Asked whether the board wished to submit on the council’s preferred option of joining Waikato Water Done Well member John Wood said: “I think council had done a bloody marvellous job to get us where we are, and we agree with what they are doing.”

But Whitaker and Titchener did not agree with his stance.

“I neither agree nor disagree,” said Whitaker. “The decision’s been made.”

Titchener echoed Whitaker’s response.

The board will make a submission neither agreeing nor disagreeing with council’s preferred option.

Cemetery to get carparking

The lack of car parking facilities at Leamington Cemetery, highlighted during community consultation, is about to be remedied.

Construction started this week on a $300,000 car park with 30 spaces including four accessible parks.

The parks will be near the new toilet in Wordsworth St. The cemetery will remain open throughout the construction period, and contractors will coordinate with funeral directors to ensure they cease works or minimise noise during any funeral services.

The need for a properly formed carpark at the cemetery was identified and consulted on through the council’s Cemetery Concept Plan.

The council also plans to install automatic gates at both Leamington and Hautapu cemeteries to restrict vehicle access at night and reduce vandalism and graffiti.

Sally Whitaker

Dawn Inglis

Weal is handed the reins

By Jon Rawlinson

Equestrian Sport’s new high performance dressage manager has her eyes firmly set on Aachen in Germany 16 months from now.

Waipā-based Christine Weal says it might be a long shot but she hopes to have a team of riders at the world champs next year.

“This is how we qualify a team for the Olympics. We need at least one or two riders gaining experience at that level.

“Having a team, or at least an athlete, at the LA Olympics (2028) and a competitive team at the Brisbane Olympics (2032) is the goal.

“To achieve this, we need to have riders working together and pushing each other while we produce young riders to compete

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internationally.”

Her appointment was announced earlier this month, two months after the death of grand prix rider and coach Penny CastlePearce.

“It is very sad that Penny can’t be here to watch the programme grow. Along with Jock Paget, she did a great job setting up the high performance programme in its first year last season,” Weal said.

Weal has represented New Zealand several times over many years and will draw on her extensive experience training and mentoring advanced riders. She also breeds and trains horses at the Te Rahu Rd family farm she runs with partner Zoie Gray on the northeastern outskirts of Te Awamutu.

Quite a few people asked Weal, who

attended Te Awamutu College, to apply for the position because of her success in coaching high performance and young riders.

Weal can also draw on her strong grass roots knowledge. Parents Leo and Pam trained racehorses, and her mother rode show horses.

The Horse of the Year’s Dressage Young Rider of the Year silverware is now known as the Pam Weal Memorial Trophy.

Weal’s sister Judith Otto, now retired and living in the Bay of Plenty, also represented New Zealand in eventing.

Horses have been an important part of the family’s lives.

“It is a great feeling when a horse trusts you and you’re working as a team to create a spectacular performance. It’s incredible to see how you can change horses by using different exercises as they develop and get stronger,” said Weal.

“That’s always a thrill and especially when you have taken a horse that is a bit tricky and been able to get confident performances from them.”

She will continue working in her business – Gray works with the young horseswhile driving Equestrian Sports NZ’s high performance programme which aims to improve the performances of Kiwi riders at international events.

“It’s important that we support and develop our current Grand Prix riders but also to build a strong succession plan,” she said.

“We need to help younger riders learn how to produce their own horses from a young age, as buying horses at this level is often out of reach financially. Having more horses and riders competing at this

level brings excitement to the sport and it can inspire greater involvement across the board.”

“Since dressage is still relatively new to the high performance programme, and we’re relying on a small group of riders to carry much of the load, it’s crucial that we develop more talent coming through the ranks. The more our top riders learn, the more knowledge they can pass on to the next generation, which will ultimately benefit the sport as a whole.”

Limited funding and resources require creative thinking, she said.

• See longer version cambridgenews.nz

Christine Weal with Schindler’s Liszt. Photo: Christine Cornege

Community Connect

Cricket umpiring legend honoured in Te Awamutu’s Walk of Fame

The ceremony unveiling Mr Hastie’s personalised pou [post] in Selwyn Park was attended by his proud family, friends and several former cricketing greats.

Mayor Susan O’Regan spoke at the event, describing Mr Hastie as a humble achiever, an extraordinary umpire, and an outstanding member of the Waipā community. “John didn’t stumble into his career – it was built on passion, commitment, and a deep love for the game.

“His contribution to cricket spans from the grassroots of our local competitions to the pinnacle of the international game.”

Mr Hastie’s umpiring career was launched in the 1960s and spanned nearly two decades, during which he officiated 48 first-class matches and 12 List A games, including officiating in tests against all of the major cricketing nations.

Mr Hastie, now aged 92, reminisced on his first test match in Christchurch in 1974, when New Zealand scored its historic first win over Australia. “It was quite a ride getting there,” he laughed, remembering the

hair-raising flights each way.

“After that first game, it wasn’t until a few years later that things took off. I had some amazing years umpiring four one-day internationals and multiple test matches in New Zealand, when we faced off against England, Pakistan, the West Indies and India,” he said.

Mr Hastie was born and raised in Te Awamutu, with his love for cricket starting right in the heart of Waipā in the late 1950s, playing in local weekend competitions at Pirongia.

He was nominated for the Walk of Fame by his son, Richard, and now joins 34 other Te Awamutu local heroes and role models who have achieved world recognition in their fields. Previous inductees include musicians Neil and Tim Finn, Ngāti Maniapoto chief Rewi Maniapoto, six-time Olympic equestrian Andrew Nicholson and golfer Philip Tataurangi.

This was the first induction since 2022. The Walk of Fame was officially opened by the late Kingī Tuheitia on November 15, 2009.

Cambridge Connections reset lead announced

A strong strategic leader with extensive experience in leading national infrastructure planning has been appointed to direct the reset of the Cambridge Connections project.

Katie Mayes (right), who is currently the NZ Transport Agency’s National Manager System Planning and Investment, will join Waipā District Council as Executive Director on Monday, May 5.

Cambridge resident Mayes said she is excited to be able to work in her own community. A graduate of the London School of Economics, Mayes’ career has seen her hold leadership roles in both local and central government, as well as the private sector. She has a Master of Philosophy in resource and environment planning, a Master of Science in public policy and administration, a Bachelor of Laws and a post-graduate certificate in management. She is also a chartered member of the Institute of Directors.

Cambridge Connections aims to create an integrated and sustainable transport network to support the fastgrowing town over the next 30 years.

Chief Executive Steph O’Sullivan said Mayes was an impressive leader with a track record for highperformance who would put the Waipā community at the very heart of the project.

“Katie’s talent for bringing positive energy, connecting people and ideas, and seeing the big picture while driving strategy into action makes her an ideal leader for this complex and critical work.

“Given its importance, I have taken the time to find the right person to lead this project to help us form the broader picture for connecting Cambridge as a part of the wider district and inter-regional connections.”

In Mayes' current role she is responsible for strategically planning the national land transport system, including how to fund and prioritise investments, and maintaining central-local government planning and investment partnerships.

“It is a privilege to be able to bring those skills into my own community and help shape the future of the place I call home,” she said.

Alpha Hotel funding stalls

By Jon Rawlinson

The trust behind Kihikihi’s Alpha Hotel believes it is being thwarted to more funding for extensive restoration on the historic building because of its ownership structure.

If the hotel had Waipā District Council’s clout, Alpha Restoration Trust chair Bill Harris believes funding to complete the work and develop the former hotel into a

community hub would quickly follow.

“Ideally, it’s a property that the council should own,” Harris told The News.

“At the moment it’s still under private ownership, so we can’t do big renovations because we can’t get big funders. But there is hope for it, hope for a community hub.”

Work on the hotel started two years ago after former Auckland city councillor and National MP, Arthur Anae,

gifted it on the proviso that it was used for the community.

The 30-year lease is set at a peppercorn rate, renewable every 10 years.

Harris believes if the council bought the hotel from the trust, doors would open on new sources of funding and further revenue could be raised by developing land behind the hotel.

“If the council owned the property and the community trust had the building, then

we could apply for Lotto funding, for example. As long as it’s under private ownership, we can’t do anything like that.

“It has quite a bit of land at the back so there could easily be flats built there. The council could, effectively, run a community hub out of the hotel and sell off the property development at the back.”

The trust is working on a concept plan.

“Council had agreed in

its last long-term plan to conduct a feasibility study on a community hub for Kihikihi. As we understand it, the study has been completed so we’ve been chasing them for it.”

The hotel opened in 1867 and is registered by the Historic Places Trust as a Category Two building. Time was called for the last time in the early 2000s.

Since then, the Alpha has been a second-hand furniture shop and even played host to ladies of the evening.

Progress towards restoring the hotel to its former glory, rather than infamy, has been made but there is more to be done.

“We’ve been tidying up downstairs to make it a little bit more presentable,” Harris said.

“People may have seen some of the work that the RSA boys have been doing on the outside. They’ve been fixing the broken windows downstairs and floorboards. Hopefully, before too much longer because of the weather, they’ll paint the bottom storey.”

One major element has recently needed a little historic knowledge from some ‘bright sparks.’

“We’re checking wiring at the moment and old wiring in an old building can cause major problems. All of the fire alarms were taken off when the building wasn’t being used – we’ve reconnected the power to put in new fuses. We’re now checking the smoke detectors and alarms to make sure everything is safe.”

As the project has been reliant on funding, there’s no set timeline for completion just yet. However, time is needed to do the old girl justice.

“It’s been a lot of work,” Harris added.

“The aim would be to open as soon as we can, but it’ll take however long it has to take to do a good job.”

Bill Harris

Kihikihi’s iconic Alpha Hotel, a popular stop on SH3.

Photo: Mary Anne Gill

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Tiny big God

By Murray Smith, Bridges Church

There’s an unfathomable reality about God. Encompassing the grandeur and immensity of the universe, God simultaneously dwells within the microscopic realm - that world of tiniest detail at a scale beyond our imagination, invisible to natural eyesight.

He created it all…from a ‘macro’ perspective down to things of ‘micro’ proportions- with everything in between.

Consider our sun - so huge that if it were hollow it could contain more than 1 million worlds the size of our earth - yet there are stars in space so large that they would easily hold half a billion suns the size of ours..!!

Here on earth we’re in a galaxy called the Milky Way. Our sun is the centre of a solar system in the Milky Way.

But the sun itself, is just a tiny speck of cosmic dust compared with the size of the Milky Way itself.

Apart from the Milky Way galaxy, there’s at least 100 million other galaxies in known space; each of those 100 million galaxies in turn has about 100 billion stars on average in them…at least that’s as far as scientists can figure out anyway.

Einstein considered that we’ve most likely probed only one billionth of theoretical space…llit is vast beyond comprehension. Remarkably, God transcends both the vastness of the universe while absorbing Himself with the realm of the microscopic - where He has created a world of detail and beauty.

Job, who lived over 3000 years ago, has a book in the Bible carrying his name. Facing many extremely distressing and painful hardships in life, he accused God of being unfair. God put Job in his place asking, “Where were you when I stretched out the span of the heavens..? Have you entered into

the treasures of the snow..?”

Interesting questions considering powerful telescopes or electromicroscopes didn’t exist to reveal either the grandeur of the planets, or the geometric wonder of snowflakes - billions fall from the sky, yet two are never the same!

Our oceans teem with planktonmicroscopic life forming the staple diet of many sea creatures…there’s tens of thousands of these forms of life, each a marvel of beautiful and intricate design. so tiny it would take 15 million to fill a teaspoon…

Then there’s the inner cellular structure of plant life with chloroplasts, tiny green grains that contain chlorophyll moving about endlessly in the cell walls of leaves, combining carbon dioxide and water into carbohydrates…the wonder of photosynthesis that locks the energy of the sunshine into food.

The human body defies understanding in terms of order and design…brain cells transmit signals and responses around our body enabling us to think and reason yet causing us to perform life-giving functions that we don’t even think about doing for ourselves…the wonder of our cardio vascular system and our blood cells - 30 million red corpuscles in every single drop of bloodcomplex processes being managed though cellular structures that keep us healthy - it’s truly astounding!

Science advances, revealing creative wonders that multitudes continue to FAILin attributing to God. For me, attributing such stunning order and design to spontaneous random chance events, calls for considerably more faith, than putting faith and belief in God!

Here to stay…

They said rock n roll would never last.

Tell that to members of Cambridge Cruisers Rock and Roll Club who have managed to make a weekly experience out of rotating their hips, swirling around, lifting each other, tossing their partners across the dance floor and all to the music of Chubby Checker, Elvis Presley and other 1950 and 1960 legends.

And it is not just every Thursday they work out.

Over the summer they danced for the Stragglers Auto Show at Lake Karāpiro, danced with the Trust Waikato Symphony Orchestra at Hamilton Gardens, and participated in “Cambridge Can Dance”

during the Autumn Festival.

Spokesperson Steve Cooper said a recent Dance Your Heart Out workshop led by Terry and John Judd of Hawke’s Bay honed the dancing skills of participants from Waikato and Bay of Plenty during a six-hour session.

The couple have been recognised leaders in dance technique and execution for more than 40 years.

Their instructions to the 49 participants focused on both the basic rock and roll step pattern, and the interaction of the steps with their partners. That moved into a series of routines that combined physical and cognitive learning.

John and Toos Grootscholten in action at a recent Rock n Roll dancing workshop. Photo: Supplied.

ON SHAKY GROUND

The muddy kind of volcano

By Janine Krippner

As we are well aware, volcanoes erupt molten rock and volcanic gases released as magma rises from deep within the Earth. But what about mud volcanoes?

Like their magmatic cousins, mud volcanoes can also be dangerous and devastating. The Lusi mud volcano in East Java began erupting in 2006, displacing 40,000 people and destroying 15 villages, with damages estimated around $US3 billion. This disaster, which deposited mud up to 40 m thick in some areas, remains controversial, with drilling activities likely triggering the ongoing eruption.

So, how does this happen?

Below the Earth’s surface, pressures build pretty quickly the deeper we go. Fluids and gases can accumulate, become trapped, and pressurise. If a fault or fracture provides a pathway to the surface, these materials can escape. When sediments are involved, the result is mud.

The mud isn’t just typical post-rain mud. It can contain hydrocarbons, heavy metals, and even microbes brought up from depth.

While magmatic volcanoes don’t produce fire or smoke, mud volcanoes can. The muddy mixture can contain flammable gases that can ignite from sparks caused by rocks colliding.

This incredible phenomenon isn’t limited to land. In 2021, an inferno formed above a mud volcano in the Caspian Sea, located near a natural gas field. Mud volcanoes in Azerbaijan are known for their violent nature, with several large eruptions each year, many involving fire.

However, mud volcanoes aren’t always so dramatic. They can be quite small, starting at the centimetre scale and reaching up to kilometres in size.

In December 2018, one erupted on a farm in Tairāwhiti/Gisborne, ejecting mud, gas, and rocks. A volume of around 16,900 m³ of mud flowed away from the vent and out to about 160 metres.

Volcanoes of the mud variety often occur near hydrocarbon reservoirs, magmatic volcanoes, or tectonically active areas—settings where fluids are present, and conditions allow them to pressurise. Then they just need a path

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to the surface. Earthquakes can trigger their formation, which was the case for the 2018 Gisborne event.

Speaking of depth, the mud mixture can originate from hundreds of metres to several kilometres below the surface, not from the much greater depths where rock can melt.

Unlike magmatic volcanoes, mud volcanoes don’t form mountains. Magmatic volcanoes build mountains or cones by depositing layers upon layers of rock around one or more vents. Mud, being more susceptible to erosion, doesn’t accumulate to form large features. The largest mud volcano structure is several hundred metres in height over in Azerbaijan.

Mud volcanoes are fascinating geological processes that offer insights into the Earth’s subsurface dynamics. Given that we have them here in New Zealand—near Gisborne and also in Northland—they’re another remarkable aspect of our beautiful and dynamic country to appreciate.

Autumn is the ideal time of year to plant new trees, hedging, shrubs or borders in your garden. Planting now while the soil is still warm means the roots will have enough time to get established before the colder temperatures arrive, which will slow down the growth. It’s also a great time to think about your edible garden, look to add citrus, feijoa's and blueberries which can all be planted now. Remove spent summer flowering annuals and plant your favourite winter flowers like Antirrhinum, Cyclamen, Polyanthus, Primula, Poppy’s, Pansy and Viola or Sweet pea. In the vegetable garden plant seedlings of beetroot, broccoli, cabbage, lettuces, cauliflower and spinach.

Happy gardening!

CAMBRIDGE VOLUNTEER FIRE BRIGADE CALLS OVER THE LAST WEEK

TUESDAY

1.35pm, Scrub fire, Parawera Road

WEDNESDAY

2:09pm, Scrub fire, Scotsman Valley Road

9:55am, Cardiac Arrest, Bryce Street

10:14pm, Building Alarm and Evacuation, Cambridge Road

THURSDAY

1:09pm, Building Alarm and evacuation, Ruakura Road

11:05am, Tree on Powelines, Thornton Road

12.34am, Tree blocking road, Thornton Road

11:56pm, Building Alarm and evacuation, Hautapu Road

12:34am, Tree blocking driveway, Princes Street

FRIDAY

SUNDAY

9:40am, Car Fire, Waikato Expresssway

8:42am, Building Alarm and evacuation. Maungatautari Road

MONDAY

SUNDAY

3:53am, Medical assistance, Karapiro Road

6:29am, Building Alarm and Evacuation, Anzac Street 12:43pm, Powerline fire, Clare Street 2:43pm, Shed Fire, Tauwhare Road

LIST WITH

The Reds go top Rugby spread across Easter weekend

By Jesse Wood

Easter weekend was littered with treats for rugby fans across the Waipā district, including wins for both premier teams on Good Friday.

Te Awamutu Sports and Hautapu picked up convincing home victories in the Waikato club rugby premiership.

Te Awamutu beat fellow country club United Matamata Sports 49-19 at

Albert Park. They scored seven tries to three in their first win of the season.

Lachie Finch and Jake Russ scored doubles, while Leo Scott added all seven conversions.

Hautapu beat old foes Hamilton Old Boys, 31-14, at Cambridge Memorial Park.

Halfback and co-captain Quintony Ngatai scored 11 of the home team’s points. In the premier B matches, Te Awamutu beat Matamata’s

development squad 27-22 and Old Boys B grabbed a 29-12 win against Hautapu.

A level below in division 1A saw Ōhaupō pick up a 20-17 win against Taupiri on Thursday night, while Pirongia fell short 40-19 to Southern United in Tokoroa on Saturday.

Leamington were dominant against Frankton, walking away from Swarbrick Park with a 36-5 victory.

The division 1B sides lost 17-3, won 22-12 and lost 29-26

respectively against the same counterparts.

The women’s teams had a long weekend break, as did the under-21 division and under-85kg.

Hautapu women will play Ōtorohanga Sports on Friday, while Kihikihi take on Melville women the following day.

Championship grade Pirongia are set to host Matamata women on Thursday evening.

The colts’ battle of the bridge - Hautapu v Leamington - will play out at Cambridge Memorial Park on Friday.

Te Awamutu Sports and Pirongia under-21 sides have home clashes.

Kio Kio United Cattle Dogs will face Drury on Saturday in the under-85kg competition.

As Anzac Day commemorations approach, it’s a great time to remember those who the district lost at war.

Many Waipā representative players never returned. Jim Wynyard, George Terry and Bert Wilkes were among the list of World War II casualties.

Lest we forget. Soldiers, both on and off the field.

Cambridge leads the men’s football premiership after a 2-1 home victory over Hamilton Wanderers at John Kerkhof Park on Easter Monday.

The top of the table Northern League clash came only three days after The Reds shared the spoils 1-1 in atrocious weather conditions against Melville United at Gower Park in Hamilton.

Goals to Blake Taylor and Joshua Clarkin gave Cambridge the lead against Wanderers with time up and extra time on the clock.

Right on 90, substitute Connor Cloete silenced the home crowd with a bolter of a strike on the angle and when Matthew Dale got his second yellow card, and had to leave the field, Wanderers went on the attack.

Bizarrely there were 13 minutes of extra time and when the ref blew full time, no doubt caused by the time it took him to issue 12 yellow cards, spectators breathed huge sighs of relief.

The Cambridge defence held firm – goalie Stefan Heuberger was outstanding - and the league’s newcomers showed last year’s results were no fluke. They have class aplenty and look at home in the higher league.

Heuberger had a busy night on Good Friday as well against Melville who peppered his goal with shots. Campbell Martin was player of the match for his relentless work in midfield.

Joshua Clarkin opened the scoring with a 52nd minute penalty in a game littered with yellow cards –three to Cambridge and four to Melville.

Victory was in The Reds’ sights – playing in black as the away team - until the memorable 90th minute when Ryen Lawrence scored for Melville and referee Andres Castros issued Clarkin with one of the yellow cards.

Bella Stark was player of the match and scored the only goal as Cambridge women beat Northern Rovers 1-0 away at McFetridge Park in the women’s championship.

They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old: Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun and in the morning, We will remember them.

Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun and in the morning, We remember them.

Te Awamutu-born Hautapu co-captain Mitch Jacobson (back rear) prepares for scrum time during their clash with Hamilton Old Boys.

Photo: Matt Gould.

Cambridge rider takes title

By Jon Rawlinson

Cambridge’s Nico Verhoeven is not yet a teenager but is already turning heads at an international level.

He recently claimed the 11-12 years, 85cc class series at the NZ Junior Motocross Championships.

Nico seems on course for higher honours.

“Five wins and now I’m the NZ 11-12 85cc champion!” he said.

“I’d like to thank everyone who helps me race, including my small and tight support crew on the day. I can’t wait to mix it up with the best in USA!”

Sealing the title at the Harrisville track, near Tūākau (north Waikato) with a clean sweep, Nico was away from home but still right at home on the clay surface, his proud dad Shane Verhoeven confirms.

“Harrisville is clay and he rides a lot at the North King Country Motocross track, which is also clay, so that suited him and he did really well, for sure. To win five in a row wasn’t expected but it was definitely good for him moving forward.

“He’s pretty committed to the sport

now. When he goes to the States, he’s competing at a world-class level so he has to dominate here in New Zealand.”

Nico has been racing since he was four and has already won an Australian title, an amateur championship in the USA and placed an impressive second at the World Junior Motocross 65cc Championship in The Netherlands last year.

Despite only recently graduating to an 85cc machine, Nico has clearly adjusted well as his series results prove.

Although there is some family history in the sport – father Shane as managing director of Kawasaki - Nico is already making up ground.

“I used to ride, socially, but nothing like how Nico races,” said Shane.

“He has two older sisters who used to ride – as the youngest of three he was dragged around to the tracks and it went from there.”

Karaka’s Hayden Draper was the stand-out performer at the championships claiming the 15-16 years, 125cc and 14-16 years, 250cc titles. However, Te Awamutu’s Nixon Parkes managed a credible second in the 14-16 250cc class.

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Linton wartime loss recalled

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“It is no easy work tramping about the Sahara Desert with a full pack on,” wrote Andrew Linton, 19, from Egypt to his parents at Mangapiko on Boxing Day, 1914.

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“I have no idea how long we are to stay here. It may be till the end of the war, or we may go any time.”

Andrew was one of several children born to

Francis and Emma Linton of Feilding. Francis, a Scotsman, was a farmer and stock dealer and the family lived in the district till around 1911 when they moved to Oeo, South Taranaki.

Two years later they moved to Mangapiko.

When World War One broke out there were two Linton boys of military age, Robert - ‘Bert’- 24, and Andrew - ‘Willie’.

They enlisted on 14 August, 1914.

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0800 225 621 www.moneyworks.co.nz “A daffodil is the

of

Their sister Jessie, 26, left home around the same time to take up nursing at Thames Hospital. The brothers left New Zealand together with the Main Body in October 1914.

temples and tombs is simply marvellous… On our way back we had a look through the Zoological Gardens . . . there is practically every kind of bird and beast imaginable there.”

By January 1915 the routines of military life had become established.

“We are doing some very solid work now, tramping about the desert and digging trenches… Our butter ran out about three weeks ago…we have to cook all our own food.

parents it was “a day I am not likely to forget.”

June 1915 found Andrew in hospital with a wounded hand “which no doubt makes my writing hard to read. I was seven weeks in Turkey before I got hit. The fighting has been pretty fierce at times, but my good fortune has always stuck to me.

"I went down to the sea last night for a swim — the first wash I have had for over a month. I am having biscuits and jam for dinner today; it’s not too bad, but I would rather have the same as you are having.

"However, there is a good time coming, but it is still a good way off.”

The good time, though, did not come.

Andrew wrote regularly to his parents.

“Five of us Te Awamutu boys went out to the pyramids, and had a good look round.

"The workmanship in connection with the Sphinx and all the ancient

"The New Zealand nurses are in the hospital here now, and they are finding plenty to do.

"Every man has a mess tin, a sort of combined billy and frying pan. It is not the warmest place in the world for sleeping out at night, even with a couple of blankets.”

"I have been promoted to corporal already, and I hope to do better than that before I am finished.”

The team at LJ Hooker: Gerda, Bruce, Beck, Barb, Peter, Emily and Alison are supporting Daffodil day,

Robert was killed in action in 1916 at the Somme, France, aged 26.

Andrew was wounded at the Somme and invalided to England.

On 25 April, 16,000 Australians and New Zealanders, together with British, French and Indian troops, landed on the Gallipoli peninsula. Turkish resistance was fierce. Andrew told his

(AFA) contact@moneyworks.co.nz 621 www.moneyworks.co.nz

Secure your future now, by making your money work smarter. Contact Carey, Peter or Paul Moneyworkstoarrange adiscussion about you financial planningand making sure that your financial solutions are working for you, both now and in the future.

While cancer research has helped many of our friends, family and clients to survive cancer, we remember with love those who are no longer with us. Peter, Carey, Paul, and Melanie.

contact@moneyworks.co.nz 0800 225 621 www.moneyworks.co.nz future now, by making your money smarter. Contact Carey, Peter or Paul at stoarrange adiscussion about your planningand making sure that your solutions are working for you, both now and in the future.

In April 1917 he rejoined his unit in France and was continuously in the trenches.

By July Andrew observed it was “terribly hot in Egypt now, and everyone has to wear a helmet and drill suit. The sand is hot enough to cook bread.”

In late 1915 he wrote “The flies are something awful - in fact, the campaign now is more against the flies than against the Turks.

Secure your future now, by making money work smarter. Contact Carey, at Moneyworkstoarrange adiscus your financial planningand making your financial solutions are working both now and in the

On 14 August, 1918

Andrew, now a sergeant, was killed in action, aged 23.

It was exactly four years to the day after he had enlisted for war.

Jessie fell victim to the deadly influenza epidemic which swept through New Zealand shortly afterwards having administered to the sick at Thames Hospital in the days leading up to it.

• Read a longer version cambridgenews.nz

We Shall Keep the Faith by Moina Michael, 1918

Oh! you who sleep in Flanders Fields, Sleep sweet - to rise anew!

We caught the torch you threw

And holding high, we keep the Faith With All who died.

Accounted4 are proud to honour those who have served our country.

Largest Selection of Tiles in the Waipa Region

the poppy red grows on fields where valor led; to signal to the skies blood of heroes never dies, a lustre to the red flower that blooms above the dead Flanders Fields. the Torch and Poppy Red in honor of our dead. that ye have died for naught; teach the lesson that ye wrought Flanders Fields.

We cherish, too, the poppy red

That grows on fields where valor led; It seems to signal to the skies

Proud supporters of Daffodil Day 2018

That blood of heroes never dies, But lends a lustre to the red

Of the flower that blooms above the dead In Flanders Fields.

And now the Torch and Poppy Red

contact@moneyworks.co.nz 0800 225 621 www.moneyworks.co.nz “A daffodil is the symbol of strength and courage, a symbol of life” Phone 07 827 9282 Email office@findahomenz.co.nz www.findahomenz.co.nz

Cambridge cambridgetiles@xtra.co.nz www.cambridgetiles.co.nz

School of Dance

We wear in honor of our dead.

Fear not that ye have died for naught; We’ll teach the lesson that ye wrought In Flanders Fields.

Andrew Linton

Jessie Linton

Putting Blue Blob behind us

By Jo Davies-Colley, Chair, Cambridge Community Board

The community board has been reflecting on the Cambridge Connections project and our advocacy during a challenging time for our town. We are also preparing for the next steps of the project.

A year ago, following the announcement of an emerging preferred bridge location, our board meetings became a focal point for public emotion, frustration, and concern. Residents from the area referred to as the ‘blue blob’ strongly connected with us as they processed the details of the project and its implications for their neighbourhood. As a board, we quickly came to realise the significant impact this project had — not just on those directly affected, but on the entire town.

Cambridge Connections represents one of the most significant local issues currently facing the residents of Cambridge. The transport strategy reaches well beyond the construction of a third bridge — it is a comprehensive, district-wide plan that focuses on a long-term transport strategy for Waipā. The decisions made through this strategy will shape how effectively we are able to navigate and connect within our growing district for many years to come.

After the project was rolled out and then paused, alongside a commendable public apology from council, the community has had time to reflect on what they want from a town-wide transport strategy. This pause has had real value. It has given residents an opportunity to consider their hopes for the look and feel of the project, the bridge location, and the wider vision for Cambridge’s future.

Over the past year, I have spent time engaging with various groups and individuals in our town, listening to their ideas on how the project should move forward. Even now, a year on, community members continue to attend

our meetings, seeking updates, asking questions, and expressing interest in the project’s timeline, the history of the bridge location decisions, and the origins of Cambridge Connections.

Amongst Cambridge residents, there remains a very strong desire for transparency. Reflecting this, I recently spoke at council about the community’s ongoing questions and concerns regarding the project’s progress and direction. I was encouraged to see that following that presentation, a media release was issued outlining future plans, the timeline on the Cambridge Connections website was updated, and a new project lead was announced last week.

We are fortunate that over the past three years, our board has developed a respectful and collaborative relationship with council. When we have advocated on behalf of our community, council has listened.

Looking ahead, we are optimistic that the next phase of Cambridge Connections will be approached differently—and better. We remain committed to staying closely involved, asking the tough questions, and ensuring that the community’s voice is heard throughout the process.

As Cambridge Connections enters its next phase, the community board remains firmly committed to advocating for clear communication, meaningful public engagement, and a transparent process — one that ultimately delivers a comprehensive transport strategy, including a third bridge, that genuinely reflects the needs, values, and long-term aspirations of the Cambridge community.

COLLISION

Cambridge Tree Trust

Cambridge Tree Trust

www.treetrust.org.nz

www.treetrust.org.nz

Five-finger (Neopanax/ Pseudopanax arboreum)

Five-finger (Neopanax/ Pseudopanax arboreum)

Ode to Autumn Season of mists and mellow fruitfulness! Close bosom-friend of the maturing sun; Conspiring with him how to load and bless With fruit the vines that round the thatch-eaves run; To bend with apples the moss’d cottage-trees, And fill all fruit with ripeness to the core ….

Spot on John Keats! Our long dry autumn and cooling nights have given us not only beautiful autumn colour, but also garden trees laden with juicy feijoas, golden persimmons, crisp apples, even exotic pomegranates. Over the years Tree Trust has done a bit to help, planting various heritage apples (Meadow Walk), hazel nuts, and quinces (Thornton Road park). They are there for the taking, but only what you need, leaving some for others. And do not rip them untimely from the tree, wait until they come away readily without damaging the branchlets.

A well serviced run-around will get us from A to B but a reliable working vehicle needs to go the extra mile.

“Hard working businesses rely on hardwearing utes, which is why they rely on us,” Jayne Verhoeven from 4WD Solutions asserts. “In a tough economic climate, maintenance may be skipped, but regular servicing saves in the long run, preventing costly downtime.”

Providing a comprehensive range of parts and accessories for utes, 4WD

CAMBRIDGE AUTO DIRECTORY

Solutions ensures vehicles have the right tools to get the job done.

“Utes are the backbones of many Waikato businesses. Whether you live rurally or your clients and customers do, we’ll help get you where you need to be.”

In addition to utes, this experienced team assists with servicing, repairs, tyres and WOFs for all makes and models.

“We’re trusted by tradies for good reason, but we take good care of

We all know what to do with apples, but quinces?

So here is my favourite recipe for a quince desert with the amazing aromatic flavours of the Middle East: Peel, quarter and core about four large quinces, place them in a casserole dish with four cinnamon sticks, two vanilla pods, and one or two oranges, sliced with skin on. Cover with a syrup made from about two cups of water and 7-800 gms of sugar. Bake with the lid on at 150C for about 2 hours or however long it takes for them to become tender. They will develop a lovely pinkish-orange colour which will grow richer as they cool. Serve cold with mascarpone.

Cambridge Tree Trust would like to thank Mitre 10 for their support for these monthly articles which are intended to raise interest and awareness of trees in Cambridge.

Cambridge Tree Trust would like to thank Mitre 10 for their support for these monthly articles which are intended to raise interest and awareness of trees in Cambridge.

4WD Solutions – driven performance

personal vehicles too. While WOF inspections check safety and compliance aspects, we also aim to identify and prevent costly issues before they occur.”

In particular, tyres should never be overlooked, Jayne adds.

“All vehicles rely on quality tyres to stay on the move. Through our tyre shop, we offer free tyre checks, replacement tyres, wheel alignments, rotations and more to help reduce wear and tear and keep you safe on the road.”

Five Stags – Any excuse for a celebration

For twelve and a half years, Five Stags has been a cornerstone of the local hospitality scene. The brainchild of Raglan-born Matt Palmer, he describes the Stags as his “passion.”

At the heart of Five Stags is the Leamington Lodge—also known as The Hut, The Shack, or The Little Room. Nestled in the centre of the restaurant and bar area, it’s a sought-after space for gatherings.

Built from timber and windows salvaged from an historic Mount Eden villa, the Lodge’s rich wooden tones embody everything Five Stags represents—a welcoming, rustic retreat inspired by the traditional Kiwi hunting lodge. “The atmosphere reflects the vibrancy of Cambridge and we are always up for a celebration,” says Matt.

BREATHING)

POMODORO, MOZZARELLA, SPICY SALAMI, NDUJA, MASCARPONE $25

A passionate sports fan, Matt is a proud supporter of the local sporting community and Five Stags sponsors Leamington Rugby, Netball, and Cambridge BMX, as well as local schools.

TARTUFOSA MOZZARELLA, MUSHROOM, TRUFFLE PASTE, ROCKET, TRUFFLE OIL $25

VERDUROSA POMODORO, MOZZARELLA, SEASONAL VEGES, EVO $22

Five Stags is all about community and over the years Matt has watched the children of patrons grow up to become patrons themselves —a tradition he

PORCA POMODORO, MOZZARELLA, SALAME, HAM, SAUSAGE, EVO $26

ORTO DI MARE MOZZARELLA,

fondly calls “the cycle of life.” And then there’s the extensive menu. With something for everyone, perennial favourites include the scotch fillet and the southern fried chicken burger— both champions in their own right.

Craig@headstone.co.nz www.headstone.co.nz

Owner Matt Palmer

St John Cambridge Health Shuttle

Providing transport to medical and health related appointments between Cambridge, Hamilton and return.

Bookings are required by 3.00pm the working day prior to appointment. Donations appreciated.

Across 1. Hydrophobia (6)

5. Gesture (6)

8. Pastry (3)

9. Vocation (6)

10. Person lacking courage (6)

11. Lodgings (inf) (4) 13. Negligent (8)

Funds (5)

Drench (4)

Exhibitionist (6)

Honest (6)

Eggs (3)

Natural hot spring (6)

Two-legged creature (5) 19. Of lower quality (8)

Wrath (3)

Buenos __ (5)

Foolish (9)

Shifty (7)

Reflect (6)

Altercation (6)

Not a single person (2,3)

And not (3)

Across: 1. Specs, 4. Rustic, 7. Cue, 8. Forego, 9. Sparse, 10. Black eye, 12. Lead, 13. Fecund, 15. Treaty, 16. Able, 17. Stirring, 19. Casino, 20. Python, 22. Rue, 23. Behead, 24. Links. Down: 1. Shoulder blade, 2. Ere, 3. Scope, 4. Respect, 5. Small beer, 6. Instantaneous, 11. Cauterise, 14. Discord, 18. Impel, 21. Ton.

LIECRBREVIVACETDAO AQWOCTTHSIUQNAVLTW VPSRPISEEVINYLLLLO ZIVVEINMLLABYELLOV VIRUSEUEZOVXYQVQVE PSKVILTUEAIONASALA VISCOUSNCHSVLEPLNL EETVOIPAUZVLHDXOIE SDIOVONMULIIVVAIAG ICFTXTDUVNOITZMAVA NHTEMUIOAANVPAELVT ACQLOERVOEPVIKMODN CUBANTLBYVBKOCCITI LONVEOTARBIVPATVNV UVNXVVRVMDUSLXYIYA VTSAVDNENITNELAVMD

22a Madison Street

Cambridge 2 Garland Lane

Cambridge 83 Whare Marama Drive

Discover

CAMBRIDGE OPEN HOMES

49

2

Ngahinapouri 935 Kakaramea Road

- If you’re looking for a 195m² home with solid bones and endless potential, this is your chance to create something truly special!

- The open-plan kitchen, dining & lounge area provide a great space for everyday living and entertaining. An island bench and extra spacious pantry/scullery make the kitchen area very practical.

- Comfort is covered year-round with both a heat pump and a log fire.

- Spacious garage with a workbench, ideal for DIY projects or extra storage.

- Welcome to a rare opportunity to secure a much-loved family home on a large 1012 sqm (more or less) corner section.

- Property Features: Elevated views, Generous living spaces filled with natural light and warmth, Ample storage with window bench seats in living areas, Fireplace and heat pump.

- Plenty of potential to renovate, extend, or simply enjoy as-is.

- A delicious selection and variety of fruit trees offer tasty treats throughout the seasons.

Private, Peaceful - St Kilda

- Positioned on a generous 790m² (more or less) block in highly sought-after Cambridge East.

- The master wing offers a true retreat—complete with a private lounge, ensuite & tranquil views over the swimming pool & spa.

- Designed with both family living and entertaining in mind, the heart of the home features a well-appointed kitchen flowing into one of three light-filled living spaces.

- For year-round comfort, enjoy the cozy ambience of a wood burner and gas fireplace, complemented by ducted heating throughout.

- Set on a generous 1,472sqm (more or less) corner site, this contemporary 290sqm (more or less) residence is the perfect blend of elegance, comfort, and practicality.

- Expansive double-glazed windows bathe the open plan living and dining areas in natural light, creating a warm and inviting ambiance.

- Boasts five spacious bedrooms, including two ensuites, plus a dedicated office and a stylish family bathroom.

- Love outdoor entertaining? You’ll fall in love with the covered portico, a fantastic space for alfresco dining, summer barbecues.

$465,000

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$965,000

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$1,650,000 $1,695,000 $1,695,000 $1,749,000 $1,950,000 $4,100,000

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Sold by Debbie & Trevor

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Heat Pump Specialists

A DISTRICT COUNCIL MEETING NOTICES

This newspaper is subject to NZ Media Council procedures. A complaint must first be directed in writing, within one month of publication, to the editor’s email address. If not satisfied with the response, the complaint may be referred to the Media Council P O Box 10-879, The Terrace, Wellington 6143. Or use the online complaint form at www.mediacouncil.org.nz Please include copies of the article and all correspondence with the publication.

Caretaker Vacancy

We are currently seeking a fit and able caretaker to join our team at Cambridge Primary School. This position is 40 hours per week including school holidays.

The Caretaker will be responsible for maintaining our school buildings and grounds. Ideally you will have a maintenance or trades background.

Duties will include:

· General repairs and maintenance of the school site including gardens

· Maintaining the swimming pool

· Moving of furniture and equipment

In this role you will be Health and Safety conscious, have initiative, be a team player and take pride in your work. You will be required to have a friendly positive relationship with staff and pupils and a willingness to be involved in school wide activities.

A Job Description is available at the school office and a site visit is welcomed. Start date by negotiation.

Please apply in writing and enclose your CV to Kate Dye, Cambridge Primary School, 3 Wilson Street, Cambridge 3434. Or via email: applications@cambridgeprimary.co.nz. This vacancy closes on Thursday 15th May.

Please visit the

Steph O’Sullivan Chief Executive

McCRACKEN, David Lloyd (Crackers) – Left the earth in style – no fuss, just the way he liked it – at home on Saturday, 19th April 2025, aged 64. Beloved husband to Tracy and proud dad to mini-Crackers – Jimmy. A service to send him off will be held at Mitre 10 Trade Centre, 55 Allwill Drive, Hautapu, Cambridge on Saturday, 26th April 2025 at 11:00 am, followed by a private cremation. Messages for the McCracken family can be sent c/- 3 Hallys Lane, Cambridge 3434 or left in Crackers’ online tribute book at www.grinters.co.nz

“It is what it is.” Roger. Over and out.

ENTWISLE, John Church – Passed away peacefully on Saturday, 19th of April at St Andrews Cambridge. Aged 92. Beloved husband to the late Audrey. Beloved father and father-in-law of Peter & Heather, Colin & Vanessa, and Gavin & Claire. Loved grandad of all his grandchildren, great grandchildren and great great grandchildren. Special thank you to the staff who took care of John for the past two years. A memorial service will be held at a later date. Messages to the Entwisle Family can be sent c/- 3 Hallys Lane, Cambridge 3434 or in Johns online tribute book at www.grinters. co.nz

MAUNSELL, Geoffrey Wyndham – After a short illness, Geoff has gone to be with his Lord and Saviour on April 16, 2025. Much loved husband of Raewyn, brother of David & Audrey, father of Deborah & Bevan, Leah & Jamie, Kirk & Jody, Gdad to Caleb, Xavier, Micah, Neve, Grace, Michaela, Ffion, and Parker; and respected friend of many. A celebration service has been held. In lieu of flowers please send a donation to Hospice Waikato. Messages to the Maunsell Family can be sent c/- 3 Hallys Lane, Cambridge 3434 or in Geoffrey’s online tribute book at www.grinters. co.nz

HALL, Eric Rex, known as Rex – Passed away peacefully at the age of 95 on Monday the 21st of April. Beloved husband to the late Val, loved father of Kevin, Chris and Tina, Kathy and Denis. Adored Poppa and great grandad. Special thanks to the staff at Restaven on Vogel for their care and compassion. A service will be held at Woodside Estate, 130 Woodside Road, Matangi, Hamilton on the 29th of April at 2:30pm. Messages to the Hall Family can be sent c/3 Hallys Lane, Cambridge 3434 or in Eric (Rex) Hall online tribute book at www. grinters.co.nz

Funeral Director

“It

just took the stress away.”

“It just took the stress away.”

Home and garden maintenance can feel overwhelming at the best of times, but as you age the on-going requirement and physical energy it takes to keep up with that maintenance becomes more of a burden, than a chore.

Home and garden maintenance can feel overwhelming at the best of times, but as you age the on-going requirement and physical energy it takes to keep up with that maintenance becomes more of a burden, than a chore.

For some, like Eileen Paradine, it became the turning point in her decision to move into Summerset Cambridge. “I couldn’t do the hedges and fruit trees, and the cost of having somebody to come in and do it was starting to get horrendous. I could see some home maintenance work starting to appear, plus living in a big house on your own, there were just too many memories. That’s when I decided.” recalled Eileen.

For some, like Eileen Paradine, it became the turning point in her decision to move into Summerset Cambridge. “I couldn’t do the hedges and fruit trees, and the cost of having somebody to come in and do it was starting to get horrendous. I could see some home maintenance work starting to appear, plus living in a big house on your own, there were just too many memories. That’s when I decided.” recalled Eileen.

“I was living in Leamington in Cambridge. I’d been there for five and a half years. It was a threebedroom home with open plan living, double garage, and lovely backyard. When we shifted from the Hawkes Bay, that was going to be our forever home, but my husband got sick quickly and passed away. He said to me ‘go into retirement village, you’ll be better off there.’ It had security, he was more worried about the security side of things than me. I pondered on that and a couple of months afterwards I thought, I’ll go and have a look. So that’s what I did, I went to different places and sized them all up with my due diligence and this was the place. This one just felt like home.”

“I was living in Leamington in Cambridge. I’d been there for five and a half years. It was a threebedroom home with open plan living, double garage, and lovely backyard. When we shifted from the Hawkes Bay, that was going to be our forever home, but my husband got sick quickly and passed away. He said to me ‘go into retirement village, you’ll be better off there.’ It had security, he was more worried about the security side of things than me. I pondered on that and a couple of months afterwards I thought, I’ll go and have a look. So that’s what I did, I went to different places and sized them all up with my due diligence and this was the place. This one just felt like home.”

After making the decision to move into a twobedroom villa, Eileen set to work decluttering

After making the decision to move into a twobedroom villa, Eileen set to work decluttering

her home ready for the move. Fortunately, Summerset moving specialist, Trish had been organised to assist Eileen on this journey. “I’d already had enough problems trying to get rid of all my husband’s tools and farming gear, all that sort of stuff. Trish rang me, and I thought, that’s a lovely, happy voice. She was really lovely and showed me what I would need to do. How I’d need to go about it, and what they would do when they came in. How they would pack up all my gear and then how they would unpack it all. She explained it really well.”

her home ready for the move. Fortunately, Summerset moving specialist, Trish had been organised to assist Eileen on this journey. “I’d already had enough problems trying to get rid of all my husband’s tools and farming gear, all that sort of stuff. Trish rang me, and I thought, that’s a lovely, happy voice. She was really lovely and showed me what I would need to do. How I’d need to go about it, and what they would do when they came in. How they would pack up all my gear and then how they would unpack it all. She explained it really well.”

Trish and the team also took care of the house Eileen moved out of, getting it ready for the new owners. “I’d sold the house within a week. The girls that did the packing, they were really lovely, and they knew exactly what they were doing, they just whipped through it all. I started packing a few bits and pieces and then they did the kitchen, dinette, China cabinet and delicate things. They cleaned the house for me the next day too, so the house was all nice and clean for the new owners. Everything fell into place, it really did. I would recommend it to anybody to go with Summerset’s Moving Services, it just took the stress away.”

Trish and the team also took care of the house Eileen moved out of, getting it ready for the new owners. “I’d sold the house within a week. The girls that did the packing, they were really lovely, and they knew exactly what they were doing, they just whipped through it all. I started packing a few bits and pieces and then they did the kitchen, dinette, China cabinet and delicate things. They cleaned the house for me the next day too, so the house was all nice and clean for the new owners. Everything fell into place, it really did. I would recommend it to anybody to go with Summerset’s Moving Services, it just took the stress away.”

If you’d like to know more about the Summerset life, or find a village near you, visit summerset.co.nz

If you’d like to know more about the Summerset life, or find a village near you, visit summerset.co.nz