A long-standing Cambridge disability workshop, operating since 1976, is facing criticism from families who say recent management changes are unsettling vulnerable participants.
Karen Carroll, whose brother Stephen Livingston, 56, has attended Achievement House in Wilson Street since 2014, says the environment has shifted dramatically in the past two months.
Other families share her fears the workshop’s traditional model - structured, hands-on work for participants known as ‘The Pals’ or ‘People We Support’ - is under threat.
They worry the workshop could be dismantled in favour of “community participation” programmes.
Carroll calls the workshops “oldfashioned but vital,” saying they give people dignity, purpose, and routine.
Some families have already withdrawn participants, citing a negative environment and poor management.
Staff will hold a stop work meeting next week and march through town with supporters.
In a statement prepared by a Hamilton public relations practitioner, interim chair Jeff Small assured the community the safety, dignity and wellbeing of participants remained the organisation’s first priority.
“Achievement House is committed to being kind and tolerant, meaningful and of use,
predictable, honest and competent in the way we support disabled people.”
Carroll is unconvinced. She has
lodged complaints with the board and contacted Taupō MP Louise Upston and the union.
Upston, who is also the
Disability Issues minister, said if people had any concerns, they should raise them with the board.
“I know many disabled people
Santa’s a good sport
enjoy contributing to their communities through work, and the learning and social
Hautapu School’s colourful ‘Santa’s Olympics 2025’ float was the Cambridge Christmas parade’s overall winner on Sunday and Viv Posselt was on hand to snap this photo and a host of others which appear today on pages 8 and 9. Waipā had
crowds.
Tension in the House
Continued from page 1
5pm Monday, 15 December, 2025
opportunities it provides,” she said.
“I also know many businesses have appreciated the quality service Achievement House has provided.”
The organisation, originally known as the Cambridge Disabled Sheltered Workshop, began in the Salvation Army Hall in 1976 and moved into its current Wilson Street building in 1985, adopting the name Achievement House.
It provides work for disabled people and services to businesses that outsource the assembly, collation, labelling and packaging
of small, lightweight components.
Income from industry supply contracts, government-funded disability support, and fundraising sustains its services - one of 11 similar disability enterprises in New Zealand.
E tū organiser Gill Butcher confirmed it was the first time since the organisation was founded that members had sought union help.
“The issues members have highlighted relate to potential breaches of privacy, lack of communication and transparency, and health and safety, particularly around unsafe staffing levels. In any workshop it can result in serious harm but are particularly concerning in a supported workshop.”
Carroll, who moved to Dunedin two years ago, told The News she was worried about her brother.
Achievement House has been central to his wellbeing, offering stability and companionship. But Carroll says his mental health has deteriorated sharply, with signs of depression and anxiety emerging.
Established medication protocols suddenly stopped, leaving Stephen without proper support, she said.
“He ended up taking the wrong dosage, and at one point told a support worker he wanted to take all his pills. That’s how desperate he felt,” she said.
A doctor has since written a letter insisting Stephen must have assistance with his medication.
Stephen, who is autistic, lives independently in Cambridge with support hours allocated through disability services.
“This is not just about my brother. It’s about protecting vulnerable people who don’t always have family to advocate for them,” said Carroll.
“We need transparency, accountability, and above all, compassion.”
Small said the Achievement House board was finalising a new strategy which would “transform” the organisation and acknowledged the system improvements and process changes were adding to the angst and disruption among some team members.
Christmas holidays and the festive season are upon us. In my last column for the year, I would like to wish you all a relaxing break and provide a few timely reminders. Periodically I discuss home security, looking out for your neighbours and reporting suspicious activity. This is never more important than now. With the hot weather arriving, it is easy to forget to close and lock open windows and doors when you leave home. It is also common for people to leave garage doors open for ventilation, thereby unwittingly showing opportunist thieves the goodies inside. In addition, we are still hearing of people leaving keys in their unlocked vehicles after parking up at home.
While some offenders will commit a crime no matter the security protections in place, you can nevertheless reduce the risk of becoming a burglary victim by taking basic precautions. If you are going away, let your neighbours know and have someone keep an eye on or visit your house. Try not to make your absence obvious to casual passersby. When you are home, but out enjoying the back yard, keep the front of your house secure. Lock your vehicles, don’t leave valuable items inside and invest in an alarm or steering wheel lock. When you see unusual or suspicious activity within your neighbourhood, for example
strangers wandering up and down driveways or onto properties, ring 111. Be sure to note descriptions of the people involved, registration plates and take a photo or video if possible and safe to do so. If we can catch one burglar, we prevent multiple offences and further victimisation.
This advice goes for rural properties as much as it does urban. I have been told that some rural community members may not be bothering to report thefts or trespassers, feeling perhaps it is not worth the effort. I strongly disagree. The more offending criminals get away with in an area, the more likely they are to return and reoffend, with the area being seen as an easy target. If we don’t know offending is happening, we cannot start to address it.
Finally, still on the festive season theme, while Te Awamutu had no reported cases, in Cambridge in the last seven days, staff caught six people who were driving with excess breath alcohol. Two face charges in court, while four returned levels that were dealt with by an infringement.
It is yet again a reminder that if you are going to drink alcohol, you need to plan before you party. When you are driving around, be aware also, that others may be out there driving under the influence, so be aware of your surroundings.
“To implement the strategic plan, we have via a rigorous and diligent selection process engaged a new general manager, Wendy Martin, who has significant experience in the disability sector and in business. Wendy has the full support and confidence of the board to lead the changes required to improve service delivery to the community,” he said.
The process had highlighted one family member’s experience where Martin found systems and processes needed updating and the board was working to urgently put new processes in place, said Small.
with Senior Constable DEB HANN
Karen Carroll (left) now lives in Dunedin and worries about her Cambridge-based brother Stephen (pictureed right). Photo: Mary Anne Gill
Christmas parade
Cambridge retailers have asked community board member Gerda Venter whether next year’s event could be held later in the day. “They have asked to have it later in the day so that they don’t lose a whole day of trading,” Venter told Thursday’s board meeting. “They would like it at twilight, or from 4pm onwards.”
Home sought
Cambridge Community Board has promised to help model maker Roger Dean find somewhere to display his miniature replica of St Andrew’s Church. Dean asked the board for help on Thursday after he was asked to remove the 2017 model from the café at Metlifecare St Andrew’s Moxon Centre.
Clark mourned
The father of former Prime Minister Helen Clark has died aged 103. George Clark’s 100th birthday featured in The News when family gathered at his home in Waihi Beach. George Clark was raised in Te Pahu and went ton to be a key member of Federated Farmers and serve on the Te Pahu school committee.
Water warning
Waipā and Waikato district council and Hamilton City Council have issued water usage warnings ahead of the festive season break. A joint statement said seasonal forecasts indicate that La Niña conditions are in place across the region which usually means more humid conditions. Waipā district Water Services Manager Karl Pavlovich said “it’s the little actions such as turning off the tap while brushing your teeth or watering gardens only once or twice a week that will help us share this precious resource so there is enough for everyone”.
Myers deputy
Maungatautari subdivision member Andrew Myers has been elected deputy chair of Cambridge Community Board. Myers will serve alongside chair Charlotte FitzPatrick.
Med school a step nearer
By Viv Posselt
Friday’s groundbreaking ceremony at the site of Waikato University’s new medical school moved a lengthy and sometimes controversial project from a courageous idea into the realm of reality.
The four-storey $83 million New Zealand Graduate School of Medicine is scheduled for completion in December 2027. It will welcome its first students the following year.
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Waikato-Tainui chair Tukoroirangi Morgan shared the task of turning the first sod at the site. They were accompanied by Minister of Health Simeon Brown, Minister for Universities and former health minister Dr Shane Reti, Waikato University ViceChancellor Professor Neil Quigley and numerous other dignitaries.
The occasion was described by several speakers as ‘momentous’, both for the university and for the country.
Prime Minister Luxon described it as an ‘incredibly significant step’ and thanked all those involved in bringing the project to fruition. He echoed other voices that commended planners
for pushing through the sometimes-negative voices and said there was no doubt the country needed a third medical school.
He said 350 New Zealand students are studying in Australian medical schools because they cannot get places here.
“New Zealand has one medical school for every 2.6 million people, while Australia has one medical school for every 1.2 million people,” he said. “We had to do something.”
Universities Minister and former health minister Dr Shane Reti, who was commended by numerous speakers for his tenacity in getting the project across the line, said Friday marked the start not only of a new medical school facility, but also a new approach to training doctors in our community.
“Today we change the landscape of medical education in New Zealand. This medical school will adopt a distinct teaching model based on successful international practice and tailored for New Zealand. This is a strong example of how universities are aligning student skills with the needs of our communities.”
The school’s graduate-
entry curriculum will provide four years of intensive, practical medical education for students who have already completed a threeyear undergraduate degree. It will take a ‘digital-first’ approach, using innovative teaching practices and new technologies, with students learning in small groups supported by advanced digital tools such as VR and clinical simulation labs alongside top-quality staff.
Simeon Brown said it marked a major step in the government’s plan to train more GPs and strengthen
access to primary care in New Zealand. He said the government had already invested heavily in boosting the country’s health care environment, and growing the workforce was crucial in ensuring that New Zealanders can access primary health care.
“This new school will train an additional 120 doctors every year from 2028,” he said. “This is a transformative lift in our ability to grow our own workforce and ensure more New Zealand doctors are ready to serve where they are
needed the most – in primary care and the regions.”
Waikato University ViceChancellor Professor Neil Quigley thanked all those who had helped bring the school to this point.
“We are committed to delivering a medical school that will attract more people who want to train to be doctors in primary and community care… we’re pleased to have the government’s support. This is a significant day for the team here at Waikato, and for the country's health workforce at large.”
River rescue rethink urged
By Chris Gardner
Fire and Emergency New Zealand (Fenz) is being accused of putting lives at risk on Waikato River after it announced a ban on fire stations from using powered watercraft.
Mayors Mike Petitt (Waipā) Aksel Bech (Waikato) and Tim Macindoe (Hamilton) have written to Fenz chief executive Kerry Gregory urging a rethink on the ban on firefighters using a rescue boat and jet skis on the Waikato River.
“The Waikato River is a lifeline for many communities - culturally, recreationally, and economically,” the letter from the three mayors said.
“The ability to respond to emergencies on the river is not a luxury; it is a necessity. The community has invested heavily in this capability,
including over $42,000 raised locally for rescue equipment. The expectation is that Fenz will honour its duty to protect life, not retreat from it.”
Huntly Fire Station, which has operated a rescue boat since 1998, and Ngāruawāhia Fire Station, which has operated two rescue jet skis since 2018, were told to cease in May. They have been involved in 81 rescues on the river since 2019.
The ban was implemented, Fenz deputy chief executive Megan Stiffler said, after Maritime New Zealand said it was operating outside of maritime rules
“Put bluntly, the two local brigades have taken all appropriate steps and appear to be fully compliant – and have successfully completed many potentially lifesaving rescues,” the mayors said.
“It is Fenz that has taken the decision that it itself is not compliant and have instructed the brigades not to respond, leaving no alternatives in place.
"The Fenz claim that others will respond to a swift water rescue is not consistent with our local knowledge; Police are equipped for recovery, not rescue operations in the timeframes required. Coastguard and Surf lifesaving do not have jurisdiction or any ability to respond. The Harbour Master is not equipped to respond nor is LandSar.
“By Fenz standing down these two well equipped, trained and certified brigades with proven incident-free track records, Fenz is in our view putting lives at risk.”
The News has sought comment from Fenz and Maritime New Zealand.
the moments that mattered
David Natske - Celebrant
Waikato-Tainui chair Tukoroirangi Morgan gestures to Prime Minister Christopher Luxon to take a spade ahead of last Friday’s sod-turning ceremony at the new medical school at Waikato University. Photo: Viv Posselt
Town brigade gets the hump
By Chris Gardner
Frustrated firefighters have complained to Cambridge Community Board that speed humps are impacting on emergency response times.
Chief fire officer Dennis Hunt called for a reevaluation of all of the speed humps in the town as he shared his concerns with the board on their impact, particularly in Bryce, Victoria and Wilson streets.
Hunt was disappointed the council had disregarded his comments before their installation a few years ago.
“While we appreciated that new cycleways were likely to be implemented on Wilson and Bryce Streets, we stressed the importance of having little change to Bryce Street,” he said.
“In the past, we would deliberately try to avoid traveling through the CBD and it was important for us to continue to use Bryce Street. However, with the current configuration of Bryce Street, it is now less of an option for us. We have issues with the level of raised speed humps,
the pedestrian crossings around the roundabouts, and the contour and narrowness of the road outside the Moxon Centre.”
Changes had resulted in fire trucks changing routes to calls and the public avoiding roads, adding to the congestion, he said.
“The speed humps are hard on our trucks and given the number of these in close proximity to our station are a big factor in our choice of travel routes when attending calls.”
Hunt said appliances had to virtually stop to get over a large speed hump by the town hall.
“The speed humps along Cambridge Road on the way to the velodrome are excessively high and the small skimming made to these some months ago has had little impact.”
“We would welcome a re-evaluation of all speed humps in our town.”
Hunt said the brigade had been asked whether it would consider moving to Hautapu.
“Our station is best placed where it is, unless a site in
Carter’s Flat were to become a possibility in the longer term. Our members live all over Cambridge and we cannot have residents in Leamington trying to turn out to a station based at Hautapu. Our station must be accessible to everyone, and we have already noticed a delay in response times as we manoeuvre through congested streets to get to the station.”
Board chair Charlotte FitzPatrick suggested said the board would seek a response from council transportation manager Bryan Hudson.
Tryathlon events draws 1900
Cambridge turned on a blue-sky Sunday as more than 1900 tamariki descended on St Peter’s School for the Sanitarium WeetBix Kids Tryathlon.
Children aged 6 to 15 splashed, pedalled and ran their hearts out at the iconic multisport event, cheered on by crowds of whānau and friends.
Among them, were Te Awamutu brothers Īhaka, 11, and Tuurama, 7, McClintock, who returned to the event after a strong experience last year.
Their mother, Helen Parker, says the standout moment was watching her boys cross the finish line hand-in-hand.
“Seeing the boys out there was pretty special. Īhaka kept himself motivated by reminding himself ‘kia kaua e mate wheke, me mate ururoa’ – do not die like an Octopus, die like a Hammerhead shark – while Tuurama trusted that ‘his body already knows what to do’.
As a whānau, we’ve seen how much they’ve grown since last year, and this event has played a big role in strengthening their confidence and belief in themselves.”
Weet-Bix Kids Tryathlon ambassadors slalom canoeist Luuka Jones and weightlifter champion David Liti spent time cheering on participants and handing out medals.
Sanitarium NZ Head of Marketing Peter Davis said Cambridge had once again turned out in force for the iconic event.
“Now in its 34th year, the Tryathlon
has become a beloved tradition in the community, and we’re proud to host an event that gives kids of all abilities the chance to try something new, build confidence, and most importantly, have fun,” he said.
Cambridge chief fire officer Dennis Hunt.
Īhaka and Tuurama McClintock from Te Awamutu crossed the finish line together.
Owners change at longstanding funeral home
A change in ownership at a local business brings the ‘Cambridge’ back to a funeral home that had its roots here 80 years ago and is opening doors to more flexible farewells.
On December 1, Legacy Funerals Cambridge reverted back to Cambridge Funeral Home under the new ownership of Carla and Phil Turner.
The couple, who live in the area and have educated their children here, have a deep sense of returning the business to its community roots after it operated for several years under the Legacy banner.
The Turners have been active professionals in the industry for 10 years, beginning their journey with Melrose Funeral Home in Tauranga, named for Carla’s mum Gayle Melrose with whom they started the business.
From there, they spread across the region, adding Simply Funerals, Simplicity Funeral Home, Simply Cremations, Waihi Funeral Home and Te Rapa Crematorium to their portfolio, along with Simply Trust, which worked with families to prepay or pre-arrange their wishes. Next, they launched Simply Estate, which takes care of all the matters arising after a death, including the packing up of houses and belongings, and the cleaning and selling of a home of a deceased person whose family are not around to tackle those jobs.
Together with many of their own family – including their seven children who are part of their family support system – they work in the business to provide a streamlined professional and compassionate service to people of all cultures and religions.
“This is not a job for me … it’s a real passion,” Carla explains. “I think it’s important to distinguish between family-owned and the big operators who are more profit-
driven. We are family-driven and we’re not strangers to Cambridge. It’s exciting to be opening here.”
Carla had a varied career before moving into the funeral industry. Those years of experience across numerous fields have forged in her a unique ability to understand people from all walks of life.
She’s sassy and smart, someone who recognises the importance of empowering families to have control and choice over how they farewell their loved ones.
“It’s more than just a business because of that. After all, you can get married half a dozen times, but you pass on just once. It is important to make sure that farewell is exactly as it should be for that person.”
Cambridge Funeral Home will remain at the same place, nestled at the base of the hill at 2 Albert Street in Carter’s Flat. Also staying on is funeral director Ian Calvert, who has been there for several years, and his wife Raewyn, who will continue as a funeral celebrant. Joining them will be Carla’s daughter Lyric, who does their marketing and IT, and another daughter Kaylan, who is an embalmer. Carla’s mum Gayle will be in several times a week, as will Carla herself.
Ensuring families have choices – and finding ways to personalise each service to suit the deceased and their family – is crucial to Carla and her team. They see every journey of loss as deeply individual.
“Families often don’t realise that they don’t have to rush into decisions. They can take their time … we can keep their loved one for as long as it takes,” she says. “It’s vital
to get it right, and if they don’t know what they want, we can guide them through those options.”
The choices they offer are adaptable and right up to date. They have even been involved in taking families through farewelling those who have died through an assisted death.
There is so much more to funerals today than a simple choice of burial or cremation. Carla encourages families not to be afraid of having early conversations with family members about what options might be open to them, or perhaps even coming in for a visit to get some advice.
Greater flexibility is the today’s norm, and the Turners can offer cremations at their Te Rapa Crematorium that respectfully fit with whatever cultural requirements may be required.
They are also introducing a water-cremation option that offers an environmentally-sustainable alternative to traditional cremation. Also known as Green Cremation, the process uses a mixture of water and alkaline solution to break a body down quickly in a special chamber. “It does in about four hours what happens beneath the ground over a much longer period.”
Those seeking more traditional types of burials or services can advance any ideas on personal touches. Gayle has done funerals where the casket has been driven from the service on a tractor, and there is a golf-cart alternative for someone who had a penchant for the game.
“It simply a case of talking to us about what you want as a family,” Carla says.
Dishing up school stories…
Around the country schools are preparing to farewell students – and teachers. Cambridge Middle School is losing one, Robyn Gibbeson, after 40 – having lost another, Suzy Reid, after 30 years recently. Steph Bell-Jenkins caught up with them.
Having her classroom burgled by a considerate crook is one standout memory Cambridge Middle School cooking teacher Robyn Gibbeson will take with her when retires tomorrow (December 12) after 40 years in the job.
The thoughtful thief struck in the early 2000s, back when Gordon Grantham was the town’s police sergeant.
“I came into my office and thought, ‘oh, my laptop’s not there’, Robyn said.
“And there were dishes in the dishrack. This guy had been in, cooked up a meal of bacon and eggs from ingredients in the fridge and then done the dishes. He was an ex-student and the police said to me I’d taught him well. So that was an interesting one.”
She also remembers shoving Simon Watts, now a government minister, out of the way to extinguish a flaming pan full of spaghetti bolognese with salt.
Heat, oil and hormones can be a volatile mix in a middle school cooking room.
“I have to have a high standard of behaviour in here for health and safety reasons,” Robyn said. “I’ve always tried to be firm, but fair.”
Year 7 student Asha Ryan gave a sense of that as she spoke about her teacher.
“She likes to have her way and you’ve got to follow her way,” she says. “She’s strict but she makes us amazing food. She’s just really nice.”
Teaching children has been Robyn’s “life, love and passion” for 40 years.
Principal Daryl Gibbs expected students would remember “a very firm and direct teacher who likes things done a certain way” and staff would miss “a very kind and caring colleague”.
“She’s the person who buys the leaving gifts,” he said. “She makes the cakes. She’s made so many cakes for staff birthdays, it’s
ridiculous.”
Robyn said she decided to retire because “all the stars aligned”.
“It’s 40 years, it’s 2025, and I was born in 1955, so I’m turning 70, and it’s time. It’s just time,” she said.
“Cambridge Middle School has been an allencompassing part of my
DNA, but the time has come to hand the baton over to someone else.”
Gareth Cogan, who has been teaching food technology at Hillcrest High School, will take her role. Robyn said she was “really excited about retiring” because she had an adventure ahead.
“I finish on the 12th and fly out to the UK on the 13th to visit friends who are like family and meet a new baby.”
After that, she will continue to volunteer at the Salvation Army and she has a few more ideas.
“I’ve been asked if I could work at the Busy Bees op shop and I’ll probably go
back to the Mosaic Choir.
I’ve got a niece in Australia, and I’ll be going back to England I’d imagine. Gardening, walking, enjoying Cambridge for what it’s got to offer.”
• See thousands of students, page 16
Retiring Cambridge Middle School teacher Robyn Gibbeson helps students Santino Van Vugt (left) and Declyn Bourke taste test their Cornish pasties.
Parade a scorching success
By Viv Posselt
A record 60 floats and around 75 vehicles carrying some 980 people made for a sizzling New World Cambridge Christmas Parade in Sunday’s brilliant sunshine.
The theme this year – A Sporty Christmas – was taken up in fine style by everyone. Hautapu School ended up taking the top slot as both the Cambridge New World 2025 Overall winner, and the Cambridge Lions Schools winner, with their fun-filled float. Hautapu School deputy principal Aaron Kavenagh said on Monday the school was thrilled to have done so well. The parade theme dovetailed well with the school’s motto ‘Explore Your Limits’ and supported one of the school’s main focuses, which is involvement in the community.
The float was co-ordinated largely by Anna Tollestrup, who is on the school’s PTA-linked Hautapu Helping Hands, with input from other staff and members of the school community.
“We’re thrilled to have done so well … our winnings will go back into doing something special with the students,” he said.
The 2025 parade was the first being run by Cambridge Lions, who have stepped into shoes vacated by Cambridge i-Site. Vicki Ewing was into her
10th year as parade manager, with Cambridge New World remaining the event’s main sponsor.
An exhausted but elated Vicki said: “Such a massive parade was a baptism of fire for Cambridge Lions… but we all came through it. It was a lovely example of Cambridge’s community spirit, with so many either involved or spectating.”
Cambridge Lions Club president Brent Montgomerie said running the event wouldn’t have been possible without Vicki.
“She has co-ordinated this event for 10 years ... we couldn’t have done it without her,” he said. “The Christmas Parade brings this town alive for an afternoon. It is such a good fit with Lions, with our club’s community focus. We would like to continue supporting it in the future.”
He also acknowledged support from Cambridge Rotary Club, Camille Guzzwell from The Breeze, New World staff, Lions members, volunteers and Leos.
Other winners on the day were Cambridge Riding for the Disabled (the Jumble Around Community Groups winner), Cambridge Kindergarten (Kaz Design Pre-Schools winner), and Cambridge Hunting and Fishing (Waipa Networks Business winner).
• Photos Viv Posselt
Well hello, dollies…
By Viv Posselt
Members of the Cambridge 60s Up group have enjoyed two decades of companionship, but it is a connection with knitted dolls aimed at comforting those in need that has taken their fancy in recent years.
The Cambridge group recently marked its 20th anniversary at the Raleigh Street Christian Centre. They are part of a nation-wide network of 60s Up groups that were started in 1982 by the late Bill Sievwright who wanted to bring the fun back into retirement. He launched the 60s Up movement… there are now around 30 branches and 3500 members around the country.
Faye Gohns was a foundation member in Cambridge; she and her husband Trevor were on the first committee. It was during Covid, when Faye was ‘feeling isolated and bored’ that she looked for something to keep her hands occupied.
“You can only do so much knitting for grandchildren, so when I found the Izzy dolls information, I downloaded their pattern,” she said. “I made one and was hooked.”
The Izzy dolls were inspired by the late Canadian combat engineer, Master Corporal Mark ‘Izzy’ Isfeld following his first peacekeeping mission to Croatia where he noticed a child’s doll lying on the rubble of a bombed
house. Inspired by his mother’s love of crafting, he launched the initiative to bring knitted dolls to communities needing comfort, children affected by war or living in crisis. After he was killed in 1994 during his next tour of duty, his mother kept the initiative going in his name.
Faye started making two a day during the Covid lockdown. She talked to the president of the Riding for the Disabled (RDA), asked her how many members they had and made about 50 for them.
“Then I rang our president [Sarah Henshaw], and we ended up getting our members involved. Some knit, others make them up.”
Each of the dolls has its own personality, she said. They are presented wrapped in cellophane, each with the Izzy dolls message for its recipient… “I am not lost, I am just alone. If I make you smile, please take me home”.
Faye and the 60s Up crew have distributed them to RDA members, to kindergartens and day-care centres and dementia units in rest-homes and retirement villages. They have also gone into Christmas parcels distributed by organisations like Cambridge Community House.
“I’ve probably made about 150 myself, and not one is the same,” Faye said, “and they can never be sold, that is the rule.”
They knit up boys and girls, and animals like cats and hedgehogs. The ‘people’ dolls have no mouths,
essentially following the idea that the recipient can tell the doll anything without fear it will be repeated.
Cambridge 60s Up president Sarah Henshaw, who will step down in April after four years, said: “We are a charity, and are lucky enough to get funding from places like Jumble Around to cover our trips and outings. We
have been to several very good exhibitions at Auckland Museum, we play sports and games, have regular speakers and do other trips around the region. The main aim is for people to remain social and engaged.”
A guest at the group’s recent anniversary was 60s Up national president, Pukekohe-based Helen Michael, and her husband.
Some of the knitted Izzy dolls made by 60s Up members.
60s Up national president Helen Michael, left, and Cambridge 60s Up founder Faye Gohns cutting the anniversary cake.
Te Awamutu and Kihikihi Ward Councillor Marcus Gower is heartened by the news that feral cats will be added to the Predator Free 2050 target list
The six-term councillor is only too aware that feral felines are an ongoing issue for many residents in his community, particularly those in Kihikihi
He says the move by Central Government reflects what many locals have been saying for years: something needs to be done
Feral cats are a nuisance - they re dangerous to our wildlife and leave a mess in my gardens and on my property,” he said
After hearing from locals, Council made a submission to the Department of Conservation in June on the Predator Free Strategy Thanks to strong public support, the Government has now added feral cats to the list
Gower, who chairs the Council’s Regulatory Committee, said residents often find cats straying in their gardens and aren’t sure what to do This strategy will make it clearer for everyone on how to respond
Thursday, December 11, 2025
If you’re stocking up on summer reads, swing by your local library early
Like our offices, the libraries will be closed from 5pm Friday, December 19, and will reopen at 9am on Monday, January 5
The move aims to protect native plants and animals, boost biodiversity, and help restore local ecosystems
The strategy will also give local groups more backing, with clearer rules, funding, and better coordination to support their work
“This is a step in the right direction It will back the great work of local groups like Sanctuary Mountain, Predator Free Pirongia, Te Awamutu, Cambridge, and Aroha Cambridge," Gower said
He said that without national legislation in place, it ’s been hard to respond to community concerns over feral cats The new framework will make it clearer who’s responsible for what and encourage more responsible cat ownership
“I hope it raises more awareness and responsibility among cat owners to desex and microchip their pets,” Gower said
The results of the Predator Free 2050 strategy review are expected early next year
Antenno
Spot a pothole, overflowing rubbish bin, graffiti, or something wrong with your local playground? Report it with Antenno!
Download our free app to report issues in your neighbourhood and to get notifications on what ’s happening in your town
To download visit waipadc govt nz/Antenno
All library books and other items issued from Monday, December 1 (including from the Library of Things) are due back on Monday, January 5
While we are closed, our online services will be available: www.waipalibraries.org.nz
Te Awamutu Museum will be closed from 4pm Friday, December 19, and will reopen at 10am on Monday, January 5
We re inviting young explorers to join our exciting Summer Reading Quest Designed for children aged 5–12, this year’s programme is all about fun, imagination and holiday adventure
To get started, simply pop into the Cambridge or Te Awamutu Library and pick up a free challenge booklet from the front desk before Friday, January 9 Kids can choose activities that appeal to them, complete the challenges at their own pace and even do more than five if they’re keen Once their five challenges are ticked off, just check in with a librarian or email the completed tasks to waipalibraries@waipadc govt nz to receive an invite to the special finale party in January
It ’s a great way for tamariki to stay busy, get creative and keep reading over the holidays Grab your booklet, get exploring and let the adventures begin!
Wednesday, December 17, 2025, 9 15am Council Chambers, 101 Bank Street, Te Awamutu
Bennett Shane Walsh Dean Taylor Marcus Gower Mike Montgomerie
Dale-Maree Morgan
Making Christmas ‘happy’…
By Murray Smith, Bridges Church
Contemporary society’s downward spiral into becoming more secularised and humanistic, has triggered lots of inevitable consequences. Notably, fewer people identify nowadays as ‘religious’. A weird irony is that with Christianity being the originating source for our festive season, ‘non-religious’ people nonetheless enjoy celebrating modified versions of Christmas, stripped of any mention of Christ.
Visiting a store selling Christmas greeting cards, I noticed few cards carrying any Christian message or referencing Christ’s birth. Overhearing two ladies cussing loudly about a couple of cards they judged to be “forcing religion into Christmas”, I wanted to postulate, “Sorry, but whose name is that in “Christmas?”
In New Zealand’s 2023 census, the number of people indicating “no religion” increased to 51.6 per cent from 48.2 per cent in 2018. It marked the first time ever that this group represented the majority. Numbers affiliated with more traditional expressions of Christian faith showed decline too. However, everywhere, especially amongst youth, a strong rising tide of interest in the Bible and about Jesus is evident. Statistics can’t capture the full story.
A week ago, I spoke with a man working with “Gideon’s”, an international Christian ministry focused on sharing God’s Word by distributing free Bibles and New Testaments. This global organisation places Bibles in hotels and among other activities, provides New Testaments to Kiwi high school students. The remarkable thing is, while many schools won’t permit “Gideon’s” Bible distribution - (along with ditching prayer and other Christian expressions on school campuses), at grass roots, interest isn’t declining.
This man gained approval to offer free Bibles outside a particular high school’s gate - off campus. He reported over 250 students
Lions Shed
Lions Shed
Christmas closure dates last day of trading Saturday 20th December re opening Thursday 22 January 2026.
Opening hours 8.30am -12pm Thursday & Saturday kitchenware, Bric a brac Clothing, Hardware, Whiteware, Electrical appliances, Furniture, Gardening/outdoor equipment and much more at very reasonable prices. and visit us at 26 Vogel Street Cambridge or check our Facebook page for weekly specials.
The Lions Club of Cambridge Charitable Trust gives out Grants monthly to many organisations.
The grants approved for November totaled $25,704.00
Opening hours 8.30am -12pm Thursday & Saturday
Come and visit us at 26 Vogel Street, Cambridge or check our Facebook page for weekly specials.
We sell kitchenware, Bric a brac Clothing, Hardware, Whiteware, Electrical appliances, Furniture, Gardening/outdoor equipment and much more at very reasonable prices. Come and visit us at 26 Vogel Street Cambridge or check our Facebook page for weekly specials.
We accept donations of goods in clean working condition, pick up of items can be arranged by calling 027-693-7953
These grants supported World of Magic children’s Christmas event, Scouting Cambridge, Diabetes NZ, Camp quality, Salvation Army (Back to school supplies) & one local sporting individual.
approaching to receive their free copy… students heard from friends about the offer and eagerly made their way to secure a copy from this guy giving them away.
Something fresh is stirring. Back in 2016 the Oxford Dictionary declared the ‘Phrase of the Year’ to be “post-truth era” having observed its usage increase by 2000 per cent. The sense of our world being in a ‘post-truth era’ back then still shows signs today of gaining oxygen with twisted, misrepresented, distorted and unreliable information abounding. Yet there’s evidence of countless numbers tiring of the ‘my truth, your truth,’ mantra. Increasingly people are simply wanting to know the truth - and they’re openly seeking answers from Jesus whose timeless message, “I am the truth,” invites both hope and purpose.
While leading a small group course explaining the basics of Christian faith, I related the beautiful facts surrounding the original Christmas story - Jesus coming to earth. One young lady’s face shone as she happily expressed her personal discovery of the unique significance of the real Christmas story for the first time. The wondrous account of Mary giving birth to Jesus - how God had come to earth in human form to reveal Himself to humanity.
Observing nativity scenes on Christmas cards and in shop windows since childhood, this young girl had never connected the dots as to the story behind those images. Like many her focus was adrift, always distracted by the season’s secular options on how to get ‘happy’… celebrating Christmas devoid of Christ.
The ‘real reason for the season’ is Jesus. Making that discovery changes everything.
Every 2nd Sunday of the month. Cambridge Memorial Park (Rugby Grounds) Open from 8.30am - 1pm
Come along to enjoy the many market stalls selling a variety of goods.
Lions Trash & Treasure Market
Food caravans and entertainment. For stall bookings contact: cambridge@lionsclubs.org.nz
Every 2nd Sunday of the month. Cambridge Memorial Park (Rugby Grounds) Open from 8.30am-1pm
Stalls priced at $20 All stall profits go back to the community through grants.
Come along to enjoy the many market stalls selling a variety of goods. Food caravans and entertainment. For stall bookings contact Cambridge@lionsclubs.org.nz
Applications are open all year round on a monthly basis so if your club, organization or sporting individual has a project that we may be able to help with let us know.
We accept donations of goods in clean working condition, pick up of items can be arranged by calling 027-693-7953
Pick up times Tues, Thurs & Sat between 8.00am -12pm
Pick up times Tues, Thurs & Sat between 8.00am -12pm
Lions Club - Grants
Club of Cambridge Charitable Trust gives out Grants monthly to organizations. They include most charities, local schools, local sporting individuals who are participating in sporting activities plus many deserving people. We also give Grants to individuals who need special equipment to help lead their lives in
Stalls priced from $20.00
Pop Up Christmas Shop
Last week
To apply please email: cambridgegrants@lionsclubs.org.nz for an application form.
Lions Club Christmas Cakes
Get excited for Christmas by
Lions Club Christmas Cakes
our deliciously fruity Lions Clubs’ Christmas Cakes. Support your local Lions Club by purchasing our famous traditonal Christmas Fruit Cake. And they come with a guaranteed shelf life of at least two years! Full of fruit, 1 kilo & delicious. Order on-line at www.lionschristmascakes.org.nz
Come on in to grab your last-minute decorating needs, trees & tree stands, baubles, lights, festive tableware and Christmas clothing. Hurry to grab our last week Christmas Specials shop closes 12pm Sat 20th December.
AGE OF REASON
Matters of integrity
By Peter Carr
We live under and, and are surrounded by, at least three layers of political governance. Not necessarily in the political party sense of those layers but in their sheer ability to smother the populace with over-arching and restrictive rules.
That each of the three practice this form of dominant stupidity is not in question.
Minister) knew more than he is willing to admit is for Joe Public to adjudge. All the political mea culpa warbling downstream from the Sunday morning interview (which totalled almost an hour) will not stop the chit-chat over drinks, morning teas and supermarket aisle exchanges.
The key word that layers over all of the foregoing is ‘integrity’.
It is the very nature of the beast where many involved, who have minimal experience in governance, attempt to quell and control the non-sensical urges of their professional staff members.
And before I get slaughtered by them too – there is much history that has gone on before.
We are not talking about dishonesty here but, in essence, a continuum of self-preservation leading to a morass of contradictory rules that take a great deal of time, cost and patience to unravel. And thus, the retention of their roles.
But layered over all this mess is the over-arching need and dictum of absolute honesty.
My ever-helpful Concise Oxford displays it as ‘the quality of having strong moral principles’. So, back to the Concise Oxford, where ‘moral’ is defined (inter alia) as ‘concerned with the principles of right and wrong behaviour…(and the plural) standards of behaviour, or principles of right and wrong...’
Note repetition of words that are quoted in both and judge for yourselves as the common court of opinion for you are all, collectively, the voters that put those governance grandees in place especially in the nation’s senior chamber.
By the time you read this I imagine the furore drummed up by the media will have been raised, thundered and passed on to another mouth-watering snippet that keeps us glued to our TV screens or scanning the (sadly diminishing) offerings of the printed media.
I am referring here to the frank – and would like to think honest – utterings of the recently departed Police Commissioner who, in a very open and well-placed TV interview gave his views as to ‘who knew what and when’
That he personally revealed that a previous Police Minister (and later Prime
If you can put aside the non-sensical babbling across the floor of that debating forum you alone (or as a group) have to decide the boundary between right and wrong. If an elected person clearly denies being told a juicy morsel, what is he or she hiding?
What have they got to lose? Other than a very well-paid seat and eventual very good pension for those who stick with the waffle, intrigue and sheer time wasting that invariably spews out into the media – who often take their own explanatory pitch to attract readership. Even if it is clearly not totally true.
ON SHAKY GROUND
Scientific conference time
By Janine Krippner
Last week I made the trek up to Auckland for the Geoscience Society of New Zealand annual conference and I’ll share a glimpse into how these events help science across Aotearoa. Conferences are a place for us to share our research and see people working on similar societal issues.
This event covered research topics in hazards including volcanology, seismology, and landslides, and aspects of our environment such as groundwater. Researchers spoke about advances in understanding the tectonic processes that form our land and the surrounding seafloor. Importantly, there was science around us –the people.
I spoke about my 2021 La Palma eruption work, on how variable damage is to homes around the lava flow edges. My most important point was the human side of this loss, the grief and suffering that is not covered by numbers.
I loved to see a session dedicated to mātauranga Māori and how it can, and should, be considered and applied in the geosciences. Understanding how we can be more resilient and take care of the environment that sustains life means understanding our history and looking at challenges with different lenses.
I heard about how there is a 10 per cent chance of an eruption in the Auckland Volcanic Field in the next 50 years. This one especially grabbed my attention with my goals of bringing lessons home from the La Palma eruption to increase our understanding of how Auckland could be impacted.
One fascinating talk busted a myth about an earthquake in Auckland, one that even
has its own Wikipedia page. To balance that, I learned about how we need to do a lot more work to understand the seismic hazard in Auckland, because there actually are faults up there to keep an eye on.
Work has been progressing to understand how phreatic eruptions work – the eruptions driven by steam that can be deadly with little or no warning.
Through the days there was also an undercurrent of understanding that funding cuts have made progress more difficult. Progress that at the end of the day benefits all of us in this beautiful yet hazardous country. This aspect I know personally, having altered the recent course of my career.
After three days of intently listening to talks and chatting with people at their posters about their work, I have formed new potential collaborations and learned new things that I will be including in my own work.
These events can cause our science to take a few leaps forward and have us ask new questions that can be the insight we need to be of use to society. So much of science happens quietly in laboratories and offices, this is a chance to talk about end results, progress that is not yet finished, or plans moving forward.
Collaboration is critical and this includes across disciplines and being in the same room allows us to form those connections that we otherwise might have missed. The progress made by scientists impacts our society as a whole, and this is one event that helps move it forward.
Make a splash help shape the future of Karāpiro Lake Domain
Whether you row, bike, picnic, camp, or just enjoy the view – we want your input on one of Waipā’s most popular reserves.
Regularly
We’ve drafted two plans to guide the domain’s future: Reserve Management Plan Masterplan
Your feedback has helped us get this far - now we need you to help fine-tune the details.
Feedback closes Tuesday, January 20, 2026.
Come see us at the domain: Saturday, December 13, 10am – 1pm KRI Christmas Rowing Regatta
Wednesday, January 14, 11am – 2pm Nga Kaihoe O Aoteroa Waka Ama NZ (Sprint Nationals)
To view the plans and have your say visit waipadc.govt.nz/karapiroreview
Thousands of students, just as many stories…
By Steph Bell-Jenkins
Suzy Reid clearly remembers the day a girl in her class splashed Indian ink across a stunning piece of nearly finished art.
With tears in her eyes, she leant over the student, said “now make magic”, and walked away. Fifteen minutes later she returned to find the blotches transformed into “a variety of amazing insects crawling across her beautiful art”.
“That student was Anna Mowbray,” she said. “A problem solver. She told me she thought of that incident when faced with a problem early on in her business career.”
Mowbray went on to co-found the Zuru toy
company with her brothers Mat and Nick and become one of Aotearoa’s most successful entrepreneurs and businesswomen.
She was one of more than 22,000 Reid taught over her 30 years at Cambridge Middle School before retiring earlier this year.
The visual art and design teacher loved walking into her studio every day and watching her students blossom.
“It was a magical space to create in,” she said.
Principal Daryl Gibbs described Reid’s “passion for art and making it accessible to all students” as “truly inspiring”.
Deputy principal Bridget Watkins said she had been a “vibrant presence” who
Alys Antiques & Fine Art
“brought creativity, care, and a deep sense of community to everything she did”.
“Her legacy will be felt in the lives of the countless students and colleagues she has worked alongside,” she said. “I will miss her warmth, passion, and the genuine joy she brought to Cambridge Middle School.”
Between training in Christchurch as a new entrant teacher and beginning at Cambridge Middle School in 1995, Reid taught in Napier, Wairoa, Waipawa, the King Country, Matamata, Hinuera, Te Poi and Tīrau.
Also known as “Darlnk”the name on her personalised number plate - Reid took pride in school art exhibitions and relished working with the arts team on school
productions.
“I loved hearing from children, years later, who said I had made a difference to them at a challenging stage of their lives,” she said.
A major career highlight was winning a national Maths, Science and Technology study award in 2003, which paid for her Graduate Diploma in Information Technology in Education. She graduated with distinction, just one year before laptops became standard issue for New Zealand teachers.
Reid believes the public’s perception of teachers has fallen over the years.
“That’s sad because teachers give way more than they ever get paid for – often to the detriment of their own
families,” she said.
Art taught life skills, she said – grit, perseverance, decision-making, problem solving.
“You need to be brave to create artworks, probably more so than any other subject, because there are no strict rights or wrongs,” she said.
“There’s so much to learn; it’s a lifelong process and that’s what makes creating art so magical. You never finish learning.”
this winter, Reid took a long overseas holiday. Now back in Cambridge, she is looking forward to spending more time with her family and to following and exploring her many passions, including performing arts, interior design, travel, and entertaining.
“I’ll also need a tougher exercise regimen,” she said.
Following her retirement
TUESDAY
“The 10-12,000 steps per day in my career has to be achieved somehow. I’ll need to learn to enjoy walking more.”
4:08pm, Cardiac arrest, Duke Street
WEDNESDAY
2:25am, Compost re, West Thompson Street
Coming Soon Coming Soon
Chest of Drawers, Mahogany, Finely moulded Ogee Feet, 104cm high, 119 wide, 52 deep, End 18th, early 19th C, good condition. OriginalDresdenHandPuppets Handmade,1960s.
Jules Duffart, French, 1924- French Town View, Oil on Board, Signed
10:58am, Building alarm, Gudex Road 6:16pm, Single car MVA, Maungatautari Road
WEDNESDAY
9:55am, Cardiac Arrest, Bryce Street
THURSDAY
12:34am, Building alarm, Hanlin Road 12:58am, Tree down on road, Kaipaki Road 7:04am, Building alarm, Gudex Road
1:09pm, Building Alarm and evacuation, Ruakura Road
11:56pm, Building Alarm and evacuation, Hautapu Road
FRIDAY
7:50am, Building alarm and evacuation, Scotsman Valley Rd
SATURDAY
FRIDAY 8:42am, Building Alarm and evacuation. Maungatautari Road
8:13pm, Smoke in the vicinity, Scotsman Valley Road 9:17pm, Smell of gas, Taylor Street
SUNDAY 3:53am, Medical assistance, Karapiro Road
MONDAY 4:24pm, Gas main strike, Everest Lane
Visual art and design teacher Suzy Reid taught at Cambridge Middle School for 30 years before retiring earlier this year.
Seasons Greetings
Incorporating the practice formerly known as Cooney Law Limited
CambridgeTiles would like to take this opportunity to thank all our clients for their continued support throughout 2025.
We will be closing on Friday 19th December 2025 @ 5pm and reopening on Monday 12th January 2026 @ 8am.
We would like to wish you all a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy and Prosperous New Year for 2026!
- Julie & Paul
From the staff at the Cambridge News and Te Awamutu News to all our readers and advertisers throughout the Waipa region for supporting us this year.
Open 7 days per week Ph: 07 872 0923
Mega Centre, 670 Cambridge Rd, Te Awamutu Monday to Friday: 8am to 8pm Saturday and Sunday: 9am to 3pm Public Holidays: 9am to 3pm
HOLIDAY HOURS
• Monday 22nd Dec 8am-6pm
• Tuesday 23rd Dec 8am-6pm
• Wednesday 24th Dec 8am-6pm
• Thursday 25th Dec 9am-1pm
• Friday 26th Dec 9am-3pm
• Saturday 27th Dec 9am-3pm
• Sunday 28th Dec 9am-3pm
• Monday 29th Dec 8am-6pm
• Tuesday 30th Dec 8am-6pm
• Wednesday 31st January 8am-6pm
• Thursday 1st January 9am-1pm
• Friday 2nd January 8am-3pm
• Saturday 3rd January 9am-3pm
• Sunday 4th January 9am-3pm
We wish all our patients a wonderful Christmas and a prosperous 2026
next year.
We wish you a happy Christmas and a safe holiday period. Your last paper of the year is Thursday 18 December - we take a two week break then are back publishing on Thursday January 8 next year
Council to get more social
By Chris Gardner
Waipā District Council is planning to turn social media comments back on in order to collect community feedback on its reset
Cambridge Connections Transport Plan.
Responding to a question from Cambridge Community Board chair Charlotte FitzPatrick on how the council would measure community sentiment outside of formal submissions, Cambridge Connections project manager Katie Mayes said the council would reinstate Facebook comments.
“That’s being worked on
at the moment,” she said.
Board member Gerda Venter asked Mayes whether there was an easier way for the community to make its voice heard.
“The questions asked for feedback should be more specific, so the result is clear, because I find - and that’s the feedback from the community -that the questions are often asked to get the required result that the council wants,” she said.
“That’s the feeling out there, rather than open, honest, transparent “this is what it is and we’ll listen to you.” That’s why the trust has been completely lost.”
Mayes said the council
had started to design the process.
“The purpose of the next process will be what are all the ideas that might address the three problem statements,” she said.
“We are looking at how to make sure we scope the questions in a way that people will be able to see what we do with that feedback and how they can see that their ideas are provided.”
Mayes said the council was working hard on how it showed it workings.
“Closing the loop is one of the things that often falls down in large community projects,” she said.
Big Bang theories abound…
Plenty of theories have arisen as to why
“Howard Wolowitz” from the Big Bang Theory was in the Waipā on November 30.
American actor and comedian Simon Helberg, and fictional aerospace engineer/ astronaut, dined at Fahrenheit, a restaurant and bar on the main street of Te Awamutu.
“Not us casually serving Howard from The Big Bang Theory last night,” a Fahrenheit Facebook post last Monday said. It took the Fahrenheit crew a while to recognise him. Khrystal Parkes verified it was him via an Instagram post saying it was his first time in New Zealand.
Helberg, in a party of four, was polite but cagey when asked what he was doing in town.
He told Parkes they were in town for work and upon leaving, told the crew he would
see them again.
Maybe he was being polite, but only time will tell.
Helberg turns 45 on December 9, was it an early birthday trip? Or maybe preparing to film nearby.
“When you wait on people’s tables, they don’t always acknowledge you,” Parkes said. “But they asked my name and talked to me.”
A big fan of the show, Hunter Brown cooked Helberg a chicken salad.
“I’ve watched the series about four times,” Brown said.
“He sounded very American, he didn’t sound like Howard at all.
“It was awesome to get to meet one of those main characters of one of my favourite shows.”
“You don’t actually go back and say, ‘This is what happened as a result of the feedback you provided and thank you - it turned out that we didn’t progress with that idea because it wasn’t the most cost-effective or the best solution’.
“Providing the rationale for why we didn’t proceed is something we need to make sure we’re really open about.”
Letters…
Thank you
In a world where we are too quick to criticise, a moment to say thank you tends to be forgotten.
My husband Henry died at home a month ago, after a lifetime of illness. I wish to extend my heartfelt thanks and gratitude to the entire team at Leamington Medical Centre for their care and support over the years.
On the day he died, Dr David de Beer responded within half an hour of the call being received. He took time out of an immensely busy schedule to attend in person.
During the last week of his life, Henry was also cared for by St John, taking time at each visit to ensure a level of comfort with every concern - never quick to rush or leave. With an overstretched health service, these moments of kindness and care need acknowledgment. Thank you.
Moira Dale Cambridge
Go back…
I read with interest the desire of the mayor and councillors to get out into the community and make themselves visible even to the extent of wearing council t-shirts.
will be Tuesday 23
offices will open from Monday 5 January 2026 with skeleton staff. Full staff return Monday 12 January 2026.
The team at Lewis Lawyers wish you a Merry
But then I also read and to quote Mayor Pettit regarding the dates of the full council meetings
“Cambridge Mayor Mike Pettit previously told the Good News Local Media's deadlines were not front of mind when the decision was made in January to move to Wednesdays” If the Mayor and councillors wish to communicate with us surely this should be advised as soon as it is available. I am not sure for how many years the council meetings have been on a Tuesday but if their desire is to communicate {and I agree] a move back to Tuesday should be made immediately
Max Brown Cambridge
Litter bugs
Once a while back the Council had a litter lady that travelled our roads picking up litter. No More. Ngaroma is the source of the Mangawhio, Puniu and Maungatutu rivers. Driving to town it is absolutely shocking the litter on the road sides. Very bad coming from Te Kawa and Waikeria. Come on Kiwis please be tidy. Robert Irvine Te Awamutu
5pm Monday, 15 December, 2025
Gerda Venter
Katie Mayes
‘Patch’ jibe gets short shrift
By Chris Gardner
A councillor who described the reset of Waipā District Council’s Cambridge Connections Transport Plan as a patch up has been reminded that he is now a “decision maker”.
The council’s Strategic Planning and Policy Committee met last week to discuss three problem statements drafted following community feedback from which to inform the next phase of the project,
New Cambridge Ward councillor Pip Kempthorne drew parallels between the project before and after the reset prompted by the announcement of the blue blob at the southern end of the central business district.
“I congratulate you for taking this wider approach,” he told project manager Katie Mayes. “But it still leaves a feeling for the Cambridge community that ultimately, we’re patching up real problems that should never have existed.”
Committee chair and Maungatautari ward councillor Mike Montgomerie stopped Kempthorne.
“You’ve expressed this a few times now, and as the chair I really think it’s time we put this to bed now,” he said.
“The reset on this project is absolutely real, it’s significant, there’s a total change of governance and staff leading this
project. Mayor Mike has asked me to lead this, and I have been very open with a commitment to transparency.”
Montgomerie told Kempthorne chief executive Steph O’Sullivan and Mayes were on board with a transparent approach.
“You are now at this table as a decision maker,” Montgomerie said.
“I would like to acknowledge your perspective on what went before, but I would like to rule a line under that because we are here now, we are the decision makers, your perspective is valid, but it is not true for the project that we are now running.”
“The line has been drawn Mike,” Kempthorne replied.
“All I am saying is that there is an overhang in the Cambridge community as a direct result of what has happened and how it happened, which makes it doubly important for us to truly recognise the voices of the people of Cambridge. Their voice was not heard for a long time and there is a lot of anger and frustration as a result of that, so we have to double our effort in order to ensure that people are truly heard.”
Montgomerie said: “You have to understand your history to learn from it and be able to advance.”
Mayes said the project implementation plan included four measures of success that would be reported on to the Risk and Assurance Committee.
“They are about rebuilding that trust, they are about transparency and engagement, and they are about project deliverables,” Mayes said.
Pirongia ward councillor Claire St Pierre asked whether the reports could come to the Strategic Planning and Policy Committee.
The second problem statement was updated to include reliance on one bridge able to carry heavy traffic as being a problem.
Mayes said the council had received 254 pieces of feedback across three questions on the project.
“The most common theme across all questions was the need for a third bridge, mentioned by around 58 percent of respondents – either directly, or using similar phrasing. It was often accompanied by words such as urgent, overdue and essential,” she said.
“The third bridge was often used in the context of reducing congestion, which emerged as another key phrase, associated with ‘CBD’, ‘school times’ and bottle necks.
“Preserving the character of Cambridge was another important concern. People want Cambridge to maintain its village feel, leafy streets and people-friendly town centre.”
Cambridge ward councillor Aidhean Camson said he thought the level of feedback -110 pieces of feedback per 10,000 people - was
low until he did some research. Let’s Get Wellington Moving received 36 pieces of feedback per 10,000 people and the Waikato Expressway got 40 pieces of feedback per 10,000 people. “We have exceeded all of those,” he said.
The issues…
The Cambridge Connections problem statement looks at three issues:
1 - High growth and impacts on transport network
Rapid population and economic growth and development in and around Cambridge, coupled with high resilience on private vehicles and limited transport choices, is placing increasing pressure on the town’s transport network and wider network connections. This is increasing congestion and delays, safety risks, increasing emissions and negatively impacting on the town’s accessibility and amenity.
2 - Through and across town traffic and heavy vehicles accessing through residential areas and the town centre. Reliance on a small number of key connections, including only one bridge able to carry heavy traffic over the Waikato River in Cambridge, means all heavy and through traffic travelling east-west or northsouth must pass through residential areas and the town centre. This increases crash risk for road users, increasing congestion, and diminishing the town’s amenity and character.
3 - Limitations and resilience of river crossings.
The aging and limited capacity of bridge infrastructure, exacerbated by the lack of schools and essential services on the Leamington side of town is constraining reliable and resilient transport links between Cambridge and Leamington and their wider network. These limitations reduce network resilience, disrupt connectivity during emergencies and temporary closures, and compromise the safety and efficiency of the transport system.
Roche project hit the target
By Chris Gardner
The upgrade and refit of Waipā District’ Council’s Roche Street building came in under budget and finished weeks early.
About a third of the council’s 370 staff moved back to the building from temporary office space in Rickett Road last week after a three-year programme of work designed to upgrade the building to meet earthquake standards.
Council chief executive Steph O’Sullivan said $6.18 million had been budgeted for the upgrade which was due to be finished just before Christmas.
In fact, $5.9 million had been spent and the work had finished about three weeks early.
O’Sullivan joined the council almost two years into the project and became involved in guiding the internal refit to suit modern working practices and build work culture.
“Culture eats strategy for breakfast,”
O’Sullivan said. The old way of working was coming to your desk and deciding what you were doing on any given day, she said, but the refit had turned that idea on its head.
The project had created adaptable workspaces where staff could decide what part of the building to work in based on the activity of the day.
The new office has hot desks that accommodate 70 per cent of the staff, as a percentage are often out of the office working in the community, allowing staff to sit in their teams or sit in other teams when they are collaborating on projects.
All parts of the building are named after prominent parts of the district’s geography including the awa and maunga.
The workplace also features mana whenua inspired artwork by Maungatautari Marae artist Eugene Carter.
The refit includes break out rooms, where staff can meet, sound proof space, where they can have confidential conversations, and a wellbeing room, where they can take time out.
Cycleways blamed for congestion
By Chris Gardner
Cambridge cycleways have contributed to the town’s congestion, the council’s Strategic Planning and Policy Committee has heard.
Cambridge Community Board chair Charlotte FitzPatrick wrote to last week’s committee to comment on the Cambridge Connections Transport Plan.
“Feedback from the community on the problem statements has highlighted concerns about rapid growth, as well as previous council planning that is impacting residents today,” FitzPatrick said in her statement read by deputy mayor Jo Davies-Colley.
“For example, cycleway placement, road closures, and speed calming measures have worsened congestion, and there is a strong view in our community that this has already impacted the town’s character, parking availability, and the economic viability of the town centre. We want to stress that, on behalf of the community, we cannot afford to wait for logical, practical solutions while developing
this business case.”
FitzPatrick said while many comments related directly to the Cambridge Connections business case and problem statements the community has would continue to raise issues that fall outside the project scope.
“Matters that could be addressed through shorter-term work programmes, quick wins, or basic customer service requests,” she said.
“It is essential that these pieces of feedback are not lost and that there is a transparent process for recording, categorising and actioning them appropriately and in a timely manner.
FitzPatrick said the next stage of the project was crucial and the board would work to ensure genuine engagement with the community.
“The general feeling in our community is that this project is well overdue, and while data is necessary to help build the business case, we need to ensure momentum as much as possible and avoid unnecessary delays.”
Pip Kempthorne
Mike Montgomerie
Waipā District Council chief executive Steph O’Sullivan with, from left, customer and community services group manager Sally Sheedy, community services manager Brad Ward and arborist planner James Richardson. Photo: Chris Gardner.
CountryLife
Calves score for rugby
By Jesse Wood
Ōhaupō Rugby Sports Club held their annual calf rearers’ day in Ngāhinapōuri last month a great initiative to raise funds to help keep the club running in the summer months.
The day was well attended by farmers from the wider area, as well as rugby royalty - former King Country and All Blacks representative Stan Meads and Waikato
Several calves will graze at Ngaroma in the King Country until they’re ready for sale.
For the past 44 years, the event has been hosted by life member Murray Jess, and his wife Kathy.
“This year was another great event. We had 23 calves on the day, another three in the wings and a few extra donations,” club president and life member Campbell Thomas said.
“It was a really fun day and a good chance for farmers to catch up after a long spring, relax, enjoy some good refreshments,
beverages and food.
“We have some farmers grazing the calves for a couple of years.
“We welcomed a couple of new calf donors to the fold this year.
Dan Evans and family, as well as Brian Gordon.”
Perez Livestock picks the calves up from the donors to be weighed at the Jess’ stockyards.
Rearers head along to the weighin and can guess the weight of an average calf.
Longtime supporter Matt O’Connor guessed one right on the dot at 150kg.
The heaviest calf was about 230kg, donated by Julene and Malcolm Fisher – also a life member.
“Murray and I are probably the oldest ones in the club. We took four calves to the Parrott family at Ngaroma [the week after the event],” fellow life member Brian Matthews said.
“They’ll rear them those calves for a couple of years, then put them into a sale. Some might go to the works. It just depends on what the
price is at the time.
“The club appreciates what they’re doing for us.”
The Parrott family previously turned $2000 worth of calves into more than $10,000, a great contribution to the club.
“It’s such good money for the rugby club. It’s a good start for the season to have that money in the kitty,” one of the organisers Andrew Young said.
“When you think about how much money we get each year from this, over 50 years, imagine how much us farmers have donated to the club. Without this [initiative] it’s a lot harder.”
Waikato rugby centurion Duane Monkley (left) and former King Country and All Black forward Stan Meads catch up at the event in Ngāhinapōuri. P hoto: Jesse Wood
Ōhaupō Rugby Sports Club president Campbell Thomas is heavily involved in the event.
Photo: Jesse Wood
The calf rearers’ day is a great initiative to raise funds to keep the club running in the summer months.
Photo: Jesse Wood
What is good faith in employment
Employers must act in good faith when making decisions that might affect employees. Acting in good faith is about good, consultative decision-making. It is about the process that the employer chooses to follow to engage and consult with affected employees, to genuinely consider feedback, and how the proposals and outcomes are communicated to employees. The duty “cuts both ways”, for both employers and employees. That is amplified by the similar obligation to be open and communicative to build and maintain a constructive employment relationship. Within a well-considered framework, employers can make effective and robust decisions about their businesses and staff and minimise the chances of successful employment claims against them. Employees can fully and fairly participate in processes that affect them, and can raise legal claims for breach in procedural fairness.
If you are thinking about your good faith obligations or are considering whether to embark on or participate in an employment decision-making process, give Your Lawyers a call for a consultation on your rights and obligations.
Jadin Hooper
Bloodsuckers with a purpose
By Viv Posselt
A niche enterprise - vital to the country’s surgical community - has begun a new chapter under the stewardship of two Waikato veterinarians.
The medical leech business was started by Maria and Robert Lupton 36 years ago. They came to it by chance when the family discovered eels and leeches in dune lakes on a farm north of Dargaville. At the same time, an Auckland Zoo scientist was up there looking for leeches for his creepy-crawly exhibition.
The Lupton children lent a hand, and when the family ended up sending leeches to the zoo, a newspaper article on them was spotted by a Middlemore surgeon seeking help for a patient. He rang the zoo and was referred to the Luptons; they sent him leeches that successfully remedied the problem… and so the business began.
They moved to Waikato and built the country’s only medical leech breeding and supply business, sending thousands via courier to plastic surgery units around the country.
When The News spoke to the Luptons last year, they had about 50,000 leeches of varying ages in their Te Miro shed.
In October, the enterprise passed into the hands of Rachel and Richard Munn.
“Richard and Rachel are the perfect fit,” Robert said.
Leeches are used to help prevent a post-operative condition called venous congestion, which occurs when the blood pools and stagnates in veins. As the leeches feed on areas of damaged tissue, they reduce the risk of blood clotting, allowing time for new, healthy tissue to grow.
The Munns work in the veterinary environment primarily in the field of research. Richard is general
manager/lead scientist at Cognosco, Anexa Veterinary Services in Morrinsville.
Rachel is a veterinary technologist and animal scientist, juggling her work with caring for the couple’s three daughters, Eva, Amy and Olivia.
They’ve learned fast that weekends away might be interrupted by emergencies
REGIONAL COUNCILLOR’S VIEW
requiring the swift delivery of leeches for a range of accidents and plastic surgeries.
The first call came on Labour Weekend, as they were planning an outing.
“We had to turn back, collect the leeches and get them couriered away,” Richard said. “It was a bit of a baptism of fire.”
Regional council overhaul
By Garry Reymer, Waipā-King Country regional councillor
I said repeatedly on the campaign trail that if I did a good job, I would be a one term councillor. I have always been an advocate for a restructure but never in my wildest dreams imagined it could be a matter of months before I was handed my notice. The government announced last week that it wants to abolish regional councils and instead have the region’s mayors form a board to decide how our district and regional councils could structure their business and operations. It’s hoped this would drive efficiencies, improve productivity and reduce overall rates.
This is a major overhaul of local government and not just a scrapping of the Waikato Regional Council as the headline suggests. In my opinion this will ultimately deliver unitary councils or territory authorities.
Ratepayers will need to think long and hard and provide feedback at every step if we want to get outcomes that will improve how we fund, structure and provide services.
In particular, we need to think about urban and rural needs and how these are best controlled.
Where the urban population is probably not as concerned about issues of drainage, the rural community has little concern for public transport.
Do we need to take Hamilton and Cambridge out of the rest of the Waikato to form a council of its own?
Do we want just one big council that covers from Pokeno across to the Coromandel, down to Taupo, across the King Country to Mokau then up the coast to Port Waikato? Or should we have three - east and west of the Waikato River with the HamiltonCambridge urban centres the third.
Once that is decided, you need to turn your focus to what functions stay inside council control and what central government takes over. Waikato water done well has already been set up, shifting a lot of debt off the council balance sheets. Roading is another major asset - should that be put into a separate entity with public transport?
Transport is the biggest single cost at WRC and a major expense for all district councils. Could NZTA take this back off councils?
Issues of drainage and flood protection could be put back under the care of farmer controlled boards as they were before the regional councils were set up. Most of that infrastructure has stood the test of time which indicates this is well within the capabilities of a local farmer board. Once you strip out those major assets and cost centres you can have a council focussed on the likes of Civil Defence, consents, parks, museums and pools. None of this is to suggest I have the answers - I don’t. But I want to highlight the complexity of the change ahead and ask that you stay informed and have your say. I can assure you that your current regional councillors will be vocal and provide the necessary leadership on the debate going forward.
Veterinary researchers Rachel and Richard Munn took over the leech business in October.
Photo: Viv Posselt
Kirby leads Rural Women
By Mary Anne Gill
An organisation that supports and connects rural women, their families and communities has celebrated its 100th birthday with a new chief executive at the helm.
Sandra Kirby brings more than two decades of leadership experience to Rural Women New Zealand across member organisations and the not for profit sector, having previously served as chief executive of Physiotherapy New Zealand and Arthritis New Zealand.
National president Sandra Matthews says her appointment comes at a pivotal time.
“She brings extensive experience from her previous roles, and a career dedicated to service and improving the lives of others.
“It’s been a huge year for Rural Women New Zealand, celebrating our centennial and growing our national office. Now we have Sandra as our chief executive, I can’t wait to see what we achieve for rural women and communities across Aotearoa.”
Kirby began her role last month and said she looked
forward to building on the legacy that supports future generations of rural women.
Kirkby’s career reflects a commitment to public health and community wellbeing, spanning initiatives from alcohol harm reduction strategies to consumer based health services.
“Raising awareness of public health issues and advocating for change have been a strong thread throughout my career,” she says.
“I love driving for change
and am driven by my desire to improve the health of all New Zealanders.”
Meanwhile past and present members had a celebratory centenary event at Zenders in Hamilton last month reflecting on the organisation’s century of service.
“A hundred years of scones, stories, service, and unwavering support for rural communities,” former president Fiona Gower says.
The event highlighted the organisation’s grassroots
beginnings in 1925 and its enduring commitment to “Service Simply Given,” from supporting communities after natural disasters to empowering rural entrepreneurs through the Activator programme.
Keynote speaker Katey Milne, a scholarship recipient now completing medical training at the University of Auckland and due to start her placement at Whangārei Hospital soon, spoke of the life changing impact of Rural Women’s
support.
“I am a product of many, many people - including Rural Women New Zealand - investing in rural communities and rural healthcare going forward,” she says.
Milne, originally from Northland, shared her love of rural life and the heartbreak of seeing how location, birth circumstances, ethniticy and even gender can shape health outcomes.
Board member Nicole
Oliver closed the event by celebrating a century of leadership and advocacy, noting that strong rural women continue to uplift their communities into the next hundred years. Kirby’s appointment signals both continuity and renewal, she says.
“With a legacy of service behind it and a new chief executive at the helm, the organisation is poised to strengthen its voice for rural women and communities across Aotearoa.”
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Members past and present gathered in Hamilton to celebrate 100 years of service and advocacy.
Photo: Supplied
Across 1. Smell (5) 4. Soak (6) 8. Distraught with fear (7) 9. Dog breed (5) 10. Multitude (5) 11. Double bind (7) 12. Distant (6) 14. Shout loudly (6) 17. Violent windstorm (7)
CHAIN CHARM BRACELET CHOKERS CORONET DIAMOND EMERALD ENGAGEMENT RING GEMS
GLASS GOLD
JADE
JEWELS
LOCKETS
MEDALLION MOONSTONE NECKLACE
OPAL
PASTE
PEARL
PENDANT
PIN RINGS
SAPPHIRE SIGNETS
SILVER
SOLITAIRE
STRING
STUD
TIARA TORQUE
Gold, bronze… or hi ho silver?
Three Cambridge horse riders at Riding for the Disabled have swapped helmets and boots for three different sports at the Special Olympics National Summers Games in Christchurch.
The 11th edition of the fouryearly pinnacle event for athletes with intellectual disabilities began yesterday and runs through to Sunday.
Among the 12 swimmers competing in Christchurch for the Te Awamutu club – one of 42 around the country - is 21-year-old Cambridge based Keziah Clark, the club’s youngest competitor at nationals.
“I’m excited and a little nervous,” she says. “I enjoy the extra Saturday training and I also train twice a week in Cambridge, mastering diving and tumble
turns.”
Shelley Blair, Head of Delegation for the Te Awamutu club describes Keziah as “always giving something new a go with 100 per cent enthusiasm”.
Her dedication has earned her a spot on stage at the opening ceremony carrying the Te Awamutu banner with 1200 other athletes watching.
Courtney Duncan, Waikato’s sole powerlifter is described as a true powerhouse. Courtney, 31, lives with Down Syndrome. She also rides horses, races in track cycling, and has been setting
personal records in powerlifting over the past few years.
Coach Bryce Johnsen says she show “what’s possible when you combine hard work with a love for sport”.
A third Cambridge RDA rider heading south is 25-year old Corban George-Potterton, a previous Waikato basketball competitor at the 2022 Hamilton Games.
He says horse riding has helped with his balance on the basketball court – albeit on his own two feet rather than on the four legs of his horse Leo.
Special Olympics Waikato athlete Courtney Duncan, powerlifting her way to a medal at the 2022 National Summer Games in Hamilton.
Corban George-Potterton centre, competing at the Special Olympics National Summer Games in Hamilton in 2022
Keziah Clark is Special Olympics Te Awamutu’s youngest athlete in Christchurch
Ninety years – 100 celebrate
When the Kairangi Hall committee got together to discuss something special to celebrate the hall’s 90 years, the Kairangi Hall Summer Festival was initiated.
Over 100 people attended the celebration and family gathering at the hall southeast of Roto-o-Rangi on Sunday.
“It was great to see so many kids turn up with their
parents and spend hours on the bouncy castle that was put up,” Shaun Crofskey told The News.
Live music was played by local Jack Wallis and a dinner and dessert was provided by the committee through business sponsorship
The cake was cut by Alison Hutchins. Her grandparents had purchased a farm in the Kairangi area in 1927.
Rod Cooper and Bill Garland delivered insightful speeches about the hall history and what it meant to them
Cooper said when he was five his parents Ron and Joy purchased the 55 acre (22ha) Bennett property and moved to Kairangi
“My parents over the years, purchased additional land and lived all of their lives here, and I have many memories of growing up in this lovely area.
“In fact, my mother as a three year old, came with her parents back in 1933 to be one of the original settlers as part of the DV Bryant Waikato Land Settlement scheme.”
A total of 15 families arrived to break in and farm the 850 acres (343ha) that was named and registered by those original settlers as
Kairangi meaning food of heaven.
Rod’s mother grew up on the Griggs family farm, currently owned by George Griggs at the end of Kairangi Road. In 1934 her sister Lois, was the first baby born in the new settlement.
The building of the hall was started in July 1935 and completed that November at a cost of 235 pounds. D V Bryant, the Board Chairman, performed the official opening on November 30, 1935.
As electric power didn’t come to Kairangi until 1940, functions at night involved using kerosene lamps dotted around the hall. The hall became the hub for meetings and social gatherings,
Over those early years, the hall was used for many functions including card games, family picnics, sporting events, and dances. During WWII, the hall was used for working bees. Comfort parcels were made for troops overseas and the ball was also the base for the Home Guard.
The first wedding reception - for Pat Main and Ivan Skinner - was held in the hall in January 1949, though it was only in 2015 that the first wedding was
held in the hall.
The hall and grounds have been used for many and significant functions - including the Kairangi Jubilee in 1983, which celebrated the 50th anniversary of the original settlers’ arrival to the district and as a base by a film crew for two days as they filmed a TV advert around the district about Anchor milk and butter. Some locals appeared in the advert when it went to air.
In March 2016 a belated 80th celebration of the hall being built was a reunion for former and current residents
which attracted just on 150 people. In 2016, the district welcomed home Nikita Howarth after she won gold and bronze at the Rio Paralympic games.
Major improvement work was carried out from 2003 to 2005. The hall floor was sanded and revarnished, and a 22,700 litre water tank and a septic tank system was installed. An extra room was also added to the back and side of the hall and the supper room and toilets were revamped.
To help cover some of the cost, motorbike trail rides were held over farms, as
were a number of horse treks.
Rod Cooper recalled many happy memories of my time spent at the Kairangi Hall. They included going to hall functions and spending most of the night inside the hall with his mother, as all the men would be outside the front door or in the carpark drinking beer.
And the morning after Guy Fawkes’ was always a race by the younger generation, to get back to the hall to find any unused crackers and – “and have a daytime Guy Fawkes time by ourselves”.
Tauwhare 624 Scotsman Valley Road
Kairangi Hall.
Photo: Google
Alison Hutchins pictured cutting the cake.
(more or less) Home & Income
- Main split-level home has been modernised-kitchen has been fully updated with tiled walls and stainless appliances.
- Two bedrooms, a lovely, tiled bathroom, and a separate powder room sit on the entrance level.
- A third bedroom plus office are downstairs.
- The second dwelling – a tidy one-bedroom cottage – has its own renovated kitchen and private courtyard.
- The section is easy-care with good fencing and privacy screens.
Kiwi As With A European Twist
- Set on a generous 809m² section that allows for a second dwelling.
- With a new roof put on a year ago, and a new oven and dishwasher put in about 4 years ago.
- Great outdoor entertainment deck, and a small area with raised vege beds immediately outside the house.
- Balance of the yard is completed by a half & half double garage (one half having an area portioned off for a storage or study area and the other half with a garage door for the car).
Escape Without Leaving Town
- This stunning 2-bedroom plus office property has been fully renovated from top to bottom.
- Double glazed throughout, this home is warm and energy efficient.
- brand-new kitchen is an entertainer’s delight, fitted with quality appliances, modern cabinetry, and plenty of bench space.
- luxurious new bathroom features underfloor heating, ensuring comfort all year round.
- Outside, the property shines with beautiful landscaping and full fencing, creating a private, secure space perfect for kids.
- Set on a generous 7574m2 (more or less) section ideal for those seeking space, privacy, and lifestyle flexibility.
- Exceptional opportunity awaits with this prime real estate offering outstanding subdivision and development potential.
- Large section provides room for a pool, second dwelling, or vege gardens, while the paddock is perfect for sheep, horses-whatever! your heart desires!
- Both the open-plan lounge and separate lounge extend outdoors , enhancing the home’s seamless indoor-outdoor flow.
Part of your Community
$785,000
$819,000
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Market Appraisal
Contact Eilish, Amy or Kevin
Contact Graham
Contact Eilish, Amy or Kevin
Contact Eilish, Amy or Kevin
Contact Graham
Contact Eilish Amy or Kevin
Contact Lenie
Contact Paulette or Kane
Contact Rachael
Turnkey quality and designer comfort
Discover the perfect blend of style, comfort, and convenience at 93A Thompson Street, a brand-new home crafted by highly regarded Downey Designer Homes. Freshly completed and finished to an exceptional standard, this turnkey residence promises effortless modern living from day one. Positioned on a private rear section, the home offers peace, privacy, and a sense of seclusion while remaining just moments from everyday essentials. Adjacent to a local park and within an easy stroll of nearby shops, cafés, and amenities, the location delivers exceptional lifestyle appeal. A short drive connects you to Cambridge’s vibrant town centre, known for its boutique shopping, welcoming eateries, weekend markets, and picturesque tree-lined streets. This is a town with a strong community spirit and an enviable reputation as one of the Waikato’s most desirable places to live. bayleys.co.nz/2313266
Deadline brought forward!
Due to receiving an acceptable pre-deadline offer, the deadline has been brought forward. The deadline has now been brought forward to Thursday 11th December 4pm.
This home is brilliant for families, first home buyers and investors who want to secure a low maintenance property. Made for easy living, this home has been thoughtfully renovated and lifted, offering a refreshed feel from the moment you arrive.Step inside and be welcomed by warm French Oak flooring and a light-filled interior designed for relaxed family living. The open-plan kitchen, dining, and generous lounge area create an inviting hub for everyday life, with double doors that open to the rear deck, which makes entertaining effortless. bayleys.co.nz/2351037
501 sqm 3 2 2
Auction (unless sold prior) 11am, Thu 18 Dec 2025 96 Ulster Street, Hamilton View by appointment
Michael Parker 027 607 4552 michael.parker@bayleys.co.nz
For Sale by Deadline Private Treaty (unless sold prior) 4pm, Thu 11 Dec 2025
Lakewood, Unit 1, Block C, 36 Lake Street, Cambridge View 11-11.30am Sun 14 Dec or by appointment
Jessie Hodges 027 850 2040
jessie.hodges@bayleys.co.nz
SUCCESS
Cambridge 93a Thompson Street
THINKING OF SELLING IN 2026?
Team Hunt is here to make your next move easy. Residential or lifestyle, Cambridge is our backyard – and we’d love to help you achieve a truly exceptional sale. A great result starts with the right team. We’re ready when you are.
– “Cob” B.V.Sc Syd. Passed away peacefully on Wednesday 26th November 2025 at Waikato Hospital aged 89 years. Dearly loved husband and best friend of Judith (nee McIlvride) for 63 years. Loved father and father-in-law of Sue and Chris Lynch, David and Catherine and family, Nicci and Wayne Gibson, and loved Grandad Cob to Christopher, Olivia, Sophie, Xavier, Maggie and Harison. A special thanks to all the staff and Carers at Cambridge Oakdale for their care and support. A private family service has been held.
LEEMING, Graham David –
The Lynch family are deeply saddened to say goodbye to their beloved father, fatherin-law, and Grandad Cob. He will be dearly missed by Sue and Chris, Christopher, Olivia, Sophie, Xavier and Maggie, and Harrison.
“Cheerio, with all our love” With heavy hearts we say goodbye to our much-loved father and father-in-law. Will be dearly missed by Nicci and Wayne Gibson.
“A lovely, lovely life”
MORRISS, Jillian Clara –
Passed away at Hilda Ross Care Home after a short illness on 26 November 2025. A dearly loved mum and mother-in-law to Lianne and Neville, Deena and Simon and treasured Nana to Brendan, Lexi, Jordan, Maddison, Bridget and James. Her warmth and love will remain with us always. A private funeral service was held at St Andrew’s Anglican Church in Cambridge on 2 December 2025. Ian
STEWART, Mona "Shirley" – Suddenly but peacefully at home overnight Monday, aged 95 years. Beloved wife of the late Jim. Loved mother of Murray and Christine (dec), and Rodney and Janice. Messages to the ‘Stewart Family’ can be sent c/- Grinter’s Funeral Home, 3 Hally’s Lane, Cambridge 3434 or in Shirley’s online tribute book at www.grinters. co.nz. A service to celebrate Shirley’s life has been held.
WANTED TO BUY. Any ute, van, 4WD, truck or car. Any condition doesn’t have to be going. Cash paid. Ph/txt Kevin 027 299 6165
WANTED TO RENT
Professional business owning couple, wanting a rural home with garaging/shedding. All options considered. Good references available. Ph 022 636 0501
are members of the NZ Independent Community Newspapers Association
NOTICE OF IMPOUNDING AND OF PROPOSED SALE OF IMPOUNDED STOCK SECTION 46(2), IMPOUNDING ACT 1955
The undermentioned stock, having been seized for impounding, are impounded at 42 Matos Segedin Drive, Cambridge.
Description of stock:
- One black cross-breed calf/heifer – female - ear tags (Roto-o-rangi)
- One bay Pinto horse – female (Pokuru)
Notice is hereby given that, unless claimed by the owner, the stock will be sold by public auction or otherwise disposed of in accordance with the Impounding Act 1955 at Cambridge Stock Pound, 42 Matos Segedin Drive, Cambridge on Friday 19 December 2025 at 11.00am. Enquiries to (0800) 924 723.
Date: 8th December 2025
By order of Waipa District Council
Karl Tutty Pound Keeper
Join us this Sunday at Raleigh St. Christian centre, 9:30am 24-26 Raleigh Street
www.rscc.co.nz
Nine Lessons and Carols
A traditional service of Carols, Bible Readings, Prayer and Choir items to help us prepare for Christmas
Sunday, December 14th 7pm All Welcome St Andrew’s Church Cambridge
Cambridge Seventh-Day Adven�st Church Cr. Shakespeare & Browning Streets Bible Study Each Saturday: 9.30am – 10.45am
Worship Service: 11.00am
Like us on Facebook: h�ps://www.facebook.com/cambridge.sda.9 email: cambridge.sda.nz@gmail.com
021
The Valuation Rolls for the Waipā District Council have been revised by Quotable Value Limited (as the Council’s valuation service provider). This process was duly audited by the Office of the Valuer General.
The revised rating values are effective as at Friday, August 1, 2025, and are available for public inspection, free of charge, on the Rating Information Database at the offices of:
Waipā District Council
101 Bank Street 23 Wilson Street
Te Awamutu 3800 Cambridge 3434
Or on our website www.waipadc.govt.nz
Public inspection will be available from Wednesday, December 10, 2025 until close of business Thursday, February 5, 2026 during ordinary office hours (Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm).
All owners and ratepayers of property (as defined in the Local Government Rating Act 2002) within the Waipā District will be posted or emailed notices of the revised values. These notices are scheduled to be sent commencing Monday, December 15, 2025.
Pursuant to the provisions of the Rating Valuations Act 1998 and Rating Valuations Regulations 1998, and objection(s) to the revised valuations are to be lodged in writing no later than Thursday, February 5, 2026.
Objection forms are available by phoning 0800 924723, by emailing Council at rates@waipadc.govt.nz, or from our council office at either 101 Bank Street, Te Awamutu or 23 Wilson Street, Cambridge.
