Cambridge News | September 4, 2025

Tonight’s the night

By Mary Anne Gill

Two Waipā chamber candidate meetings – the first tonight in Cambridge, the second seven days later in Te Awamutu – will influence who business owners want as their next mayor.

Our headline three years ago “O’Regan’s win was down to business” captured the moment she secured the powerful Cambridge business vote at a Town Hall meeting.

That support catapulted Susan O’Regan into the top job. She defeated incumbent Jim Mylchreest and Cambridge business owner Chris Woodhams.

But much has changed since then – and all bets are off.

The biggest shift? The businesses themselves. They’ve been rocked by rising rates, a lack of transparency, the Blue Blob, a proposed waste-to-energy incinerator, cycleways, traffic jams, rapid growth, economic pressures and what many describe as council apathy, blocking, and tick-boxing.

Pundits say this is the most significant local body election in Waipā’s 36-year history.

Tonight’s debate facilitator - and The News columnist - Peter Carr says the issues themselves make this election crucial.

“This meeting is not a sales pitch for the candidates – I want them to answer our questions and answer them honestly.”

Cambridge businesses backed O’Regan’s call for change three years ago but what they got was not what

Are your bank deposit rates disappointing? Let’s talk alternatives.

they wanted or expected, said Cambridge Chamber chief executive Kelly Bouzaid.

“The (recent) quarry decision and the on off ramps at Tīrau Road was really disheartening. Our town’s never going to be the same,” she said.

O’Regan will need to call

on all her political acumen - and what she describes as her “strong, proven leadership” - to fend off challenges from experienced councillors Mike Pettit and Clare St Pierre.

The astute voter will note Pettit, St Pierre and O’Regan all supported the rate increases and sat through

long term and annual plan hearings where the extent of the increases unravelled. Debate and dissension were nowhere to be found during the term until the election campaign began.

Pettit, sidelined by O’Regan, was missing in action making his campaign critical in Cambridge, where

he is well known from his time as community board chair and school principal.

But on the western side of the district – in places like Te Awamutu, Kihikihi, Pirongia and Ngāhinapōuri - they hardly know him despite his six years on council.

“Pettit has to capture the Cambridge vote to win,” said Carr, adding that St Pierre would have to eat into O’Regan’s hometown support to get him across the line.

Carr went as far as to describe St Pierre as a “sacrificial lamb”. Her support is strong in Pirongia-Kakepuku, and she is expected to get back onto council. For Pettit and O’Regan, it is all or nothing.

Te Awamutu Chamber chief executive Shane Walsh – who is standing for council – says the business meeting next week will put the mayoral candidates on the spot about rate increases.

The chamber represents 130 businesses – “the lifeblood of the town” – and 70 per cent increases made them “spring to attention”, he said.

The Cambridge event will be live-streamed on Good Local Media channels from 5pm.

• Find out more cambridgenews.nz

• Our election coverage is on pages 5, 16, 17, 18, 19

Cambridge News three years ago after O’Regan’s victory.

•

Letters…

Hide your rubbish

I’m a Hamilton resident who very much enjoys weekly visits to Cambridge and regards your small town as surely one of the prettiest destinations in New Zealand, save one aspect - the sight of commercial rubbish bins in full public view in the town centre.

I’m thinking Alpha St near the Onyx restaurant, in particular. Can business operators not be persuaded to find some other way of storing unwanted material for collection? Seems to me the otherwise aesthetic appeal of this dining precinct is diminished by leaving unsightly bins right where customers can see them.

Pitt Ramsay Hamilton

Alarming call

Following on from Alan Hayward’s letter, Expressway access (The News, August 28) the issue of congestion will now be further exacerbated by the recent consent of the sand quarry at 77 Newcombe Rd. As previously noted, heavy transport movements will seriously affect congestion through an already struggling road system throughout Cambridge CBD and environs. Visions of fully laden truck and trailers potentially having to stop halfway up Carter’s Flat Hill

CONTACTS

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027 450 0115

Mary Anne Gill maryanne@goodlocal.nz 021 705

Chris

viv@goodlocal.nz

chris@goodlocal.nz

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Owner/Publisher

David Mackenzie david@goodlocal.nz

Office/Missed

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Receiving lost and found property is one task undertaken by our Station Support Officers, at the Cambridge and Te Awamutu public counter.

Over the years we have had a wide variety of items handed in, from bicycles to jewellery, mobile phones, wallets or keys and once, even a live turtle!

Did you know that if you find an item that someone has likely lost, it is illegal to just keep it and make it your own without making every reasonable attempt to return it to its rightful owner? It can be helpful to initially post on local community Facebook pages with information of the find and this sometimes ensures a speedy return. At the same time however, this then places the onus on you to ensure that the person claiming it, is actually the true owner. When an item is handed into police, we are able to compare the description, serial numbers and other relevant information to any reports of lost (or stolen) property already received or that come in soon after. Sometimes stolen property is abandoned by thieves if they deem it of low resale value.

Where it is an item with a name on it, we can also check our systems and often find

due to congestion backed up from Victoria St roundabout should be ringing serious alarm bells.

The Government and NZTA would be well advised to review the decision not to allow a northbound on ramp to the expressway from this quarry, 25 years is a long time.

David Johnston

Cambridge

Penny pinching

A few years ago we were told we would have to pay separate rates for water usage and the less we used would mean we would pay less rates. What a joke. We are a couple of pensioners who use far less water than most families but still have to pay approximately $350 a year on top of our rates.

We have had to cut back as have many other people especially young families - I don’t know how they manage. A 15 per cent increase in rates is pinching money from ratepayers. I and lots of other people, I am sure, are going to make sure anyone who wants to be on council had better do better than the existing ones. The ones on council at the moment must think we can print money just like they can. (Abridged)

Brian Pitchford.

Te Awamutu

contact information to be able to get in touch with them directly.

If you are unable to get to the station or bring the item in to us, make a report to 105, either online or via phone.

When you hand something in you will be asked whether you consent to your details being released to the owner (for appreciation) and if subsequently unclaimed, whether you wish to have the found item returned to you. Where appropriate, items that are unclaimed after three months are sent to auction. In the past week, Cambridge SSO Lisa has had a ring and an Apple iPad handed in. If you lose something, do make sure you check in with us, we may just have received it.

In other news, Cambridge has had more attempted and actual car thefts this past week. Don’t forget that CCTV and forensic evidence are key to catching those responsible. If you find your car has been broken in to, do not touch anything with your bare hands. Be sure to report any interference or theft of cars and let us know if you have anything suspicious captured on CCTV.

Alcohol laws

I am writing in response to Senior Constable Deb Hann’s On the Beat (The News August 28) and in light of the government’s decision to loosen alcohol laws.

Deb Hann couldn’t be more clear when she points out that police are the ones who see the heartbreak that follows alcohol fuelled crashes. “We all have a role to play in keeping our roads safe,” says Deb. I agree, and I’d go further to say we all have a role to play in minimising alcohol harm.

The government’s decision to loosen alcohol laws is a shameful betrayal of New Zealanders. As someone who gave an oral submission on alcohol harm, sharing the devastation it has caused in my own family, I am appalled to see once again that the alcohol lobby’s voice has been valued above the voices of ordinary people.

Associate Minister of Justice Nicole McKee says “most people who drink do not have a problem with it’”. That is misleading. The reality is clear: one in six adults drink hazardously, 17.5 per cent binge drink monthly, and 72 per cent of the harm comes not from “alcoholics,” but from so-called normal drinking. Alcohol causes 900 deaths, 1250 cancers, 30,000 hospitalisations, and costs New Zealand $9.1 billion every year.

Yes, I welcome one announced change — banning delivery to intoxicated people — because it was something I personally asked for. But in the face of this enormous harm, it is nothing more than a token gesture. Alcohol is our most harmful drug. By loosening the law, this government has chosen industry profits over people’s lives. That is not leadership. It is cowardice.

Louise Allen

Cambridge

Briefs…

Eddie dies

Eddie Bradley, who featured in The News with wife Marie on their 70th wedding anniversary in January, has died aged 90. Marie, 91, died in May. The couple met in Belfast, Northern Ireland as teenagers, married and had six children, three of them born in Cambridge after the family emigrated.

Kapa haka delight

Schools from around Cambridge took part in the annual kapa haka festival at the Sir Don Rowlands Centre in Karāpiro last week. See photos cambridgenews.nz

Business News out

The September issue of Waikato Business News is out this week and features nine candidates standing for mayor in Waipā, Hamilton and Waikato. It also features an interview with former All Black Sam Cane and a Cambridge veterinarian turned theatrical costume and set designer. Sister publication Bay of Plenty Business News looks at the decision to scrap NCEA. More online and free at goodlocal.nz

Rep rugby returns

The Waikato women’s rugby team will play its Farah Palmer Cup match against Manawatu at Cambridge Memorial Park next week instead of the usual Waikato Stadium venue making the match accessible to the Waipā community for a gold coin donation.

New lake plan

Lake Ngā Roto retains its name in a new plan approved by councillors for restoring it. Wairoto was identified by Apakura Rūnanga Trust as its traditional name in the plan but it has not been agreed with Te Rūnanganuio-Ngāti Hikairo.

Hall open day

Cambridge Town Hall is having a community open day on Saturday to highlight its newly renovated rooms.

Asbestos fear confirmed

By Mary Anne Gill

Asbestos has been discovered at a waste recycling plant near Leamington, in what council staff say is a breach of the facility’s resource consent conditions.

Earlier this year, ResourceCo - operating from a former sand quarry behind Aotearoa Industrial Parkdenied neighbours’ claims that toxic materials were being dumped at the site.

Waipā District Council issued a non-notified resource consent to the company last year to divert 51,000 tonnes of construction waste from landfill to the plant. Staff said the $6.4 million concrete recycling facility would have “less than minor” adverse effects on the environment.

The former quarry is at 3831 Cambridge Rd, between the river and Waipā’s Cambridge wastewater plant and borders a housing cluster on Kaipaki Rd.

Waipā District Council’s decision to grant resource consent for the rural site in July drew criticism when it was revealed earlier this year.

Ironically another quarry site – on Newcombe Rd south of Cambridge – got the go ahead from independent hearing commissioners last week following a hearing where more than 350 submitters voiced their opposition.

RS Sand plans to extract up to 400,000 tonnes of sand a year for around 25 years. The quarry will operate weekdays between 7am and 5pm, and on Saturday mornings.

At peak, up to 200 truck movements per day are expected, with typical daily movements closer to 78.

In a letter to residents last week, Waipā District Council District Growth and Regulatory Services group manager Wayne Allan said asbestos had been dumped at the Leamington site by one of ResourceCo’s contractors.

“Following the discovery of the potential asbestos, the operator put into place isolation measures including ‘asbestos’ tape around the material,” said Allan. He confirmed there was photographic evidence.

The asbestos has since been moved to a licensed facility.

“Council enforcement staff are treating the investigation of this incident as a breach of consent conditions to ensure asbestos is not brought to the site again,” said Allan.

Concerns about asbestos at the plant were first raised by Cambridge Chamber of Commerce chief executive Kelly Bouzaid in June, after a truck and trailer carrying asbestos-contaminated material crashed on the Waikato Expressway at Tamahere.

There was no suggestion the truck and trailer was headed to Cambridge but Bouzaid said she was aware of marked trucks carrying asbestos were going in and out of the Leamington facility.

No applications for future managed fill activities had been submitted to either

Waikato Regional Council or Waipā, said Allan. It would need regional council consent.

“Managed fill” refers to material made up mostly of clean fill with minor contaminants, including construction and demolition waste like concrete, asphalt, tiles, and glass.

The only Waikato landfill site licensed to receive asbestos is at Hampton Downs.

Allan said he would keep residents informed of the council’s ongoing monitoring at the Leamington plant.

Neighbours told The News the stockpile at the plant grows larger by the day, fuelling ongoing concern.

The plant secured a $2.57 million boost from the Government’s Waste Minimisation Fund to divert up to 72 per cent of construction and demolition waste from landfill.

Piopio-based director Henry Fullerton-Smith, who also runs a demolition and asbestos removal company, said the project was about managing waste better.

Champions at The Meteor

Cambridge High School’s junior and senior Theatresports teams won the Waikato championship at The Meteor in Hamilton on Monday.

The junior team of Adam Thorne, Dylan Vink, Emogen Renshaw and Kate Leys, came in as the underdogs but left the winners.

The senior team of Sylvie Keightley, Vinnie Proebstel, Summer De Gouviea Rennie and Aspen Gooch drew for first with last year’s champions, Hamilton Boys’ High.

The success adds to the Drama department’s success at the school. Earlier this year students won two trophies in the Shakespeare Festival, bringing home the only two Waikato trophies and won national awards for outstanding performances in Wellington.

Cambridge High knocked out well established theatre sport champion schools –St John’s College and Hillcrest High – to win.

Jim Goddin, Teri Keir & Jordan Goss - Funeral Directors

Waste at the plant with asbestos warnings around it. Photo: Supplied

Winners of the senior title were from left Aspin Gooch, Summer de Gouviea-Rennie, Vinne Proebstel and Sylvie Keightley.

Rivals campaign together

By Mary Anne Gill

They may be facing off at the polls, but Yvonne Waho and Dale-Maree Morgan share a common goal - saving the Waipā Māori ward, which they say is essential for democracy in the district.

Waho and Morgan - joined by two other candidates with Māori heritage and Hamilton City councillor Anna Cox-Casey - gathered at the St Andrew’s Anglican Church roundabout on Saturday to show their support for the ward.

Waho, a last-minute nominee running against Morgan, believes fear is driving opposition to Māori wards.

“When you heed misinformation and give people a reason to be scared, they lose sight of its importance,” she said.

This month, voters will receive ballot papers asking whether or not they support keeping the Māori ward.

The binding poll is part of the coalition

agreement between National, ACT, and New Zealand First.

Waipā District Council established the Māori ward in 2021 following strong public support – of more than 900 submissions received, more than 750 were in favour.

The ward was created for the 2022 elections and reaffirmed by council last year.

“We will be working with our communities and working towards the same strategic plan. We will be on the same page,” said Waho.

Morgan said having the 18 per cent of Māori represented at the table had to be a good thing for Waipā as they had not been there before.

Morgan, who won a by-election two years ago to replace Waipā’s first Māori ward councillor Takena Stirling, said representation matters.

She also emphasised the potential of iwi partnerships to help address financial

challenges.

“We’ve chosen not to tap into the Māori economy. If we’re still at the table, we can. It’s one way to keep rates low.”

She emphasised unity and shared history.

Māori and European together made for a stronger district, she said.

“We stand (together) for Anzac, for Armistice. We dug the trenches just like everybody else. We were there to keep our lands free even though we were victims of our land being taken.

“We will still stand together. Together is better, being divided is not.”

Both candidates stressed the importance of youth engagement, especially given census data showing a growing number of younger Māori compared to European.

“We need a succession plan - and we need young people to vote,” Morgan said.

To reach younger voters, Waho and Morgan plan to visit marae and increase their presence on digital platforms.

Good outlook for Thursday

A Waipā band has continued a successful year by starring at last week’s Rockshop Bandquest for the Waikato region.

Te Awamutu Intermediate’s Thursday’s Cancelled earlier won the Band Slam regional competition in August.

It is the first time a school has won both band competitions in a calendar year and Thursday’s Cancelled now moves on to the Bandquest national final, among the top 22 intermediate aged bands in the country.

Band members are Maraeroa Te Kanawa (vocals, guitar), Zita Harpur (vocals), Ronan Hinchliffe (guitar), Frances Bowmar (bass) and Ryan Tonks (drums).

Their winning Bandquest set featured a cover of Fleetwood Mac’s Go Your Own Way, as well as their own original song Against the Wall. Te Awamutu Intermediate’s other band this year, Don’t Feed the Bassist, has also picked up a range of awards, including the Star Vocalist award for Erin Stinton at Bandquest, first place in the ‘other Instrument’ category at Band Slam for Cadence Pheng (violin) and a second in the keyboard section at Band Slam for Loretta Shaw.

The Te Awamutu Intermediate music programme has had a run of success – its jazz band and symphonic band, under the direction of Sue Germann, both received gold awards at the recent Waikato Primary and Intermediate Band and Orchestra Festival.

Teacher in charge of the Rock Bands Logan Kimber said it had been an exciting time to support and mentor children in music.

“Being in a band, making music and writing songs fosters creativity, teamwork, critical thought, relating to others, as well as the obvious instrument and performance skills. In a rapidly changing world these skills are more important than ever,” he said.

Waipa Maori ward candidates Dale-Maree Morgan, left, and Yvonne Waho, extreme right show their support with others in Cambridge. Photo: Mary Anne Gill

John Bertrand Collectables Are Buying in Cambridge and Waikato Next Week

Once again, the gold and collectables buyers from Wellington company John Bertrand Collectables are visiting Cambridge and Waikato next week. Mr Tony Grant from the company says, “If you are downsizing or wanting to dispose of things because they no longer serve any purpose to you or your family bring them in”. “Next week will be a great opportunity to have any items you want to sell assessed by our buyers” said Mr Grant. Particularly wanted are Gold and Silver (in any of its forms) and Collectables such as Coins, Banknotes, War Medals, Old Wind-up Watches and other interesting Small Collectables.

“We are keen buyers, especially of the items in the list below” said Mr Grant. “Nothing is too small for our consideration. We are just as happy buying 1 item as we are buying 1,000 items” he said. The buyers will be in Cambridge and Waikato next week. (see details below). As Tony Grant points out “If you are in doubt about any items you may wish to sell, bring them along for an instant appraisal.”

Gold & Silver At Near Record Prices

During these uncertain times

we have seen a sharp increase in the price of precious metals. The gold price in New Zealand is at near record levels so gather up all your unwanted items and take them along to the buyers. Tony Grant says “We can buy old gold items in all forms, including Jewellery (Rings, Chains, Brooches etc), Coins (Sovereigns and the like), Alluvial (River Gold), virtually anything, even Gold Teeth! We also need all Sterling Silver including Cups, Tea Services, Cutlery and Old Coins” he said.

Interesting Small Collectables Wanted

The buyers from John Bertrand (Collectables) Ltd, visiting Cambridge and Waikato next week, are happy to look at any interesting items, for example vintage pocket and wristwatches such as Rolex, Men’s Omega, Breitling and gold watches etc. Also wanted, pre 1950’s picture postcards, Maori and Pacific artefacts, old fountain pens and other small antique or historical items.

“If you have something unusual which you would like to sell, please bring it into one of our venues, we would like the chance to at least have a look at it” said Tony Grant, buyer for the Company. “We will consider anything which may be of interest to a collector” he said.

Some Big Dollars in Early Banknotes

Early New Zealand Banknotes dated before 1932 are currently fetching big money! This is according to Mr Tony Grant, author of the John Bertrand New Zealand Coin & Banknote Catalogue. Mr Grant is in Cambridge and Waikato next week on a buying trip for John Bertrand (Collectables) Ltd and would be very keen to see any of these issues. “We will pay at least $300 for any undamaged |Ten Shilling or One Pound banknote from a

New Zealand trading bank dated 1932 or before.

Denominations of five pounds and higher would be worth from $700. “Any banknote dated prior to 1900 would be worth at least $1000” said Mr Grant.

Also purchased are any Reserve Bank of New Zealand pre-decimal issues, especially 50 Pound notes. All overseas banknotes are also wanted, especially early Pacific Island issues.

Collectors Need War Medals

Currently, throughout NZ and the world there is a big demand by collectors for war medals. These cover all wars right through from the New Zealand Land Wars and the Boer War, to the First and Second World Wars and the later Korea and Vietnam conflicts. New Zealand Servicemen and Women first served overseas in the Boer War in South Africa around 1900 and the war medals awarded for this service are needed by the buyers, as are any other Medals from early New Zealand and the New Zealand Wars. General service medals from both the First and Second World Wars will also be purchased, but as can be imagined these were awarded in fairly large numbers. “If a group of medals has any special award for bravery such as the Military Medal, Military or

Old Coins Can Toss Up a Rarity

Do you have a bunch of old coins sitting around in your drawers and cupboards? You just never know what rarities may be lurking there. The advice from Tony Grant from John Bertrand (Collectables) Limited is to “bring them in and let us have a look”. “No need to sort anything out just bring them in ‘as is’ and please don’t clean them! We can go through coin accumulations and collections fairly quickly” he said. The buyers are particularly keen to buy pre 1946 New Zealand Silver Coins for at least 20 times their face value (more for quantity). “In any event we will buy All Coins,” said Mr Grant.

Mr Anthony (Tony)

Bertrand The Trusted Name In Numismatics

I Am Me movement grows

By Viv Posselt

The ‘I Am Me’ structured programme created in Cambridge to support women who are victim-survivors of family violence was introduced at a community forum in Te Awamutu last week.

The programme pilot launched in Cambridge late last year, with the first group of 15 women going through an initial eightweek course in early 2025, followed by an informal selfdirected second phase.

‘I Am Me’ founder and developer, Violence Free Waipā’s Anne Morrison, said the time was right to take it further afield.

“We are bringing it to the Te Awamutu community, essentially Te Awamutu, Pirongia and Kihikihi,” she said.

“We found a few things we wanted to tweak as we’ve gone through the course in Cambridge and now we want women here to get the benefits, to reclaim their mana and start rebuilding their future.”

She told those at the launch that reported cases of family violence in Te Awamutu, Pirongia and Kihikihi were roughly double that listed for Cambridge, despite Cambridge being significantly larger in terms of population. Figures in 2023 listed 677 reported cases in the Te Awamutu area, compared to 368 in Cambridge,

Liz Stolwyk

and for 2024 listed 745 in the Te Awamutu area, compared to 417 in Cambridge.

Figures for 2025 list 364 reported cases in Te Awamutu, Pirongia and Kihikihi to date.

“Family harm reports to police for Te Awamutu, Pirongia and Kihikihi communities combined continue to hover at high rates … with close to two reports on average each day,” Morrison said. “It’s important to understand that these are reported cases only.

The New Zealand Crime and Victims Survey released in 2024 suggests that only 24 per cent of interpersonal violence is actually reported to police.

She said New Zealand’s rates of domestic and family violence was among the highest in the OECD, and Māori women in particular were at risk, more likely to be killed by a partner and less likely to seek help.

The programme was developed from the bottom up, built with the support of Cambridge women with lived experience and input from Debbs Murray, founder of the national Eclipse Family Violence Services.

“I looked at other models elsewhere in the country, but they seemed to have been developed along more academic lines,” Morrison said. “That is why we went on to develop our own programme.”

The initial structured phase

covers numerous topics over eight weeks, including protection and police safety orders, parenting orders, digital safety, legal aid and navigating the Family Court system, accessing help and building skills, counselling, budgeting, mental health and wellbeing, spiritual and cultural support, and workplace preparation. Thereafter, participants go through a second phase of primarily self-directed support.

The women who went through the Cambridge course all completed it. They said it made them feel inspired, less alone, less judged and more empowered to move forward.

Morrison shared the programme’s aims with those at the community forum and invited Te Awamutu groups and individuals to become involved where they could.

“This is our chance as a community to get behind our women and see opportunities for how we can support them as they move through their healing journey and help break generational cycles of family violence.”

Following this initial meeting, she hopes to get the Te Awamutu, Pirongia and Kihikihi ‘I Am Me’ programme off the ground at the Waipā Women’s Hub in Te Awamutu later this year, ready for an early 2026 start.

‘I Am Me’ founder Anne Morrison speaking in Te Awamutu last week.

By Viv Posselt

In his 40 years as sales manager for Winstone Wallboards, Cambridge’s David Philip drove an estimated three million kilometres in 32 company cars and spent over 2500 nights in hotels. What he failed to mention was the number of bottles of red that would have been consumed as the tally mounted, the good wine shared with good friends, countless fishing trips and a brilliant family to come home to.

That nugget of

information was dispensed by Scott Philip in the family tribute he gave at David’s farewell service in the Cambridge Town Hall. Unwell in recent years, David had offered a spot of constructive advice on what to say when the time came, but he wouldn’t have expected the other many other accolades shared with mourners, among them a large contingent of Cambridge Lions Club members.

He had been a member of the Lions club for 14 years, several of them spent as shed director.

It was under his leadership that the Lions Shed in Vogel St became a major earner for the club. A message read out on behalf of longtime family friend Jon Broadley, who was out of the country when David passed, spoke to that inspired leadership and said it had been instrumental in contributing to the $350,000 put into this community by the Lions each year.

Former Lions president Brent Montgomerie said David ‘led by example’. He never wanted to take the top slot, preferring to be one of those just working for the cause. “But you always knew when he was in the room,” he said.

David’s tenure with the club won him a slew of awards. These included a Lloyd Morgan honorary award, a Lloyd Morgan life membership, Lion of the Year in 2015, the Melvin Jones Award in 2020-21, the President’s Award (special excellence) in 2022, and the President’s Appreciation Award the following year. David was born in Te Kuiti. The family soon moved to Cambridge and David attended Leamington School through the tough

post-war years, often walking barefoot to school through summer or winter. He learned to drive a car and motorbike… at just 13 he drove his mum to Waikato Hospital to visit his ailing dad, but ironically his youth meant he couldn’t enter the hospital when they got there.

At 15 he would help his dad Arthur wind the Cambridge town clock, every Friday at 4pm. He was a terrific athlete and a great roller skater who took wins in both solo and pairs competitions.

After leaving Cambridge High School, he did an apprenticeship in joinery and cabinet making, later starting Cambridge Cabinets in Cook St with Dave Chandler – it is still going today. They built the first commercial factory in Carter’s Flat, a 1000 square metre prefabricated building for Gold Coast Poultry, then replicated it at 37 other venues around the North Island.

Throughout his working life David committed to helping his community, joining the then Jaycees until the age of 40. Beyond that and through his working life and retirement, it was

fishing and boating that remained a passion.

Dave married Barbara in 1967, and the pair went on to have four children, Scott, Paul, then twins Anna and Glenn. They have eight grandchildren. The ‘service to community gene’ remains strong, with Cambridge Volunteer Fire Brigade’s deputy fire chief Glenn receiving his silver bar last year for 17 years’ service.

Boating and fishing were one of David Philip’s passions.

Cambridge Lions Club members lined up on the steps as family carry David Philip’s casket from the Cambridge Town Hall after last week’s farewell. Photo: Viv Posselt

Aims games underway

They could have felt overwhelmed by the sheer scale - 14,000 athletes from 431 schools across New Zealand - but Hautapu School stood proud as its flag soared at the opening ceremony of the country’s largest sporting event on Sunday.

The Aims Games got underway on Saturday with the highlight always coming at the opening ceremony held in the Baypark Arena when the school flags are carried by athletes.

Four international schools were also competing in the Bay of Plenty along with 37 athletes with disabilities all competing in 28 sports.

The opening ceremony featured a welcome from Tauranga mayor - and Cambridge resident - Mahé Drysdale who was alongside Lisa Carrington, Sophie Pascoe and Noah Hotham during a question and answer session.

At its inception in 2004, the games attracted 760 competitors representing 17 schools and four sporting codes attended – it now has more athletes than were at the Paris Olympic Games.

Joining Hautapu in representing The News circulation area were students from Cambridge Middle, Kaipaki, Korakonui, Maihiihi, Ōhaupō, Ōtorohanga South, Piopio College, Rukuhia, St Patrick’s Catholic, St Peter’s School and Te Awamutu Intermediate.

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In The News

Our online story announcing the giant quarry on the southern outskirts of Cambridge had secured resource consent to proceed topped the views on cambridgenews.nz last month.

The front page revelation that Lake Te Koo Utu’s future was bleak came in at runner up in a recordbreaking month for our website.

The News in Brief which led with news Five Stags of Leamington had secured its liquor licence was third followed by Transport minister Chris Bishop’s rejection of the on off ramps at the end of Tīrau Rd.

Rounding out the top five was Karāpiro reunited – the completion of the hydro project and the opening of the dam road.

We will be monitoring views and hits during the election campaign and there is already a front runner among the mayoral candidates.

Hits to the website are 50 per cent up on July this year and 82 per cent up on August last year. Our website stories are not behind those irritating pay walls – you can read them in full in between issues of the newspaper.

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P utting People F irst . Re - elect JACQUI CHURCH MAYOR

With a proven record of delivering for Waikato families and communities, I offer proven, informed and authentic leadership

Through tough economic times, we’ve focused on keeping Council costs down, improving core infrastructure, and modernising service delivery, because you deserve efficiencies. Implementing new road contractors after 10years, first equal partnership 3Waters CCO with Hamilton approved by DIA, and kept rates lower than our neighbours.

Actioned appointing our future -focused CEO, after 20+ years. A pproving restructuring council top to bottom, including reducing the senior team from 11 to 6.

First Housing and first council- wide Communications Strategy to improve transparent engagement, across the business We’ve maint ained our AA+ financial credit rating. Led our first Rural, Lifestyle & Small Community Strategy and Rural Economic Advisory Panel for you 47% of citizens and 83% of roads that are rural We must finally recognise all our people and economic opportunities with our urban centres We’ve achieved a lot of momentum tog ether, but there’s more to do We need continuing steady, innovative, expe rienced, people-centred, business- orientated leadership and transparency

Flying high: Hautapu School at the Aims Games opening ceremony, from left: Stephanie Barr, Oscar Stevenson and Callista Davis-Beer.

Photo: Alysha Gill

OPEN DAYS RYMAN VILLAGE

FRIDAY 12 & SATURDAY 13 SEPTEMBER, 10AM - 2PM

Experience

Plus,

We look forward to seeing you.

Charting the unknown

By Janine Krippner

Right now, my work is focused on assessing geological hazards across vast expanses of the seafloor, encompassing volcanic activity and deposits, earthquakes, landslides, tsunamis, and just about everything else you could imagine. The learning curve has been steep, which is just the way I like it.

Part of this work is understanding the data that I am using so that I am aware of the limitations. Some of the most important and fascinating data, multibeam bathymetric data, is the marine equivalent of looking at Google maps under the ocean, but with far less detail. This data is collected by technicians and scientists who spend long stretches of time on research vessels or ships.

A dear friend and colleague of mine, scientist Christie Reiser, has spent more than 1000 days at sea over the past decade. She kindly agreed to share what it’s really like to live and work aboard a ship.

Christie’s work was based in Alaskan waters, where the field season lasts six to eight months during the better weather period. That means spending every hour of every day with the same people, working 12-hour shifts and often under pressure, sometimes in life-or-death situations. Tragically, death is occasionally part of the reality at sea. Ships are dangerous places, and health and safety are paramount. Each person must not only look after themselves but also remain constantly aware of the wellbeing of everyone around them.

As of today, only about 27 per cent of the world’s seafloor has been properly mapped using modern instruments, according to the Seabed 2030 global mapping initiative. And even then, the resolution is not what we’re

used to on land. The main task of Christie’s cruises was to chart previously unmapped areas of the seabed, as well as re-map dynamic nearshore zones where human activity or natural forces, such as tsunamis, can modify or reshape the seafloor.

As a survey technician, part of her job was to work on the smaller boats that depart from the main ship, where she collected data and cared for sensitive equipment. The end result was the creation of nautical charts, which are crucial for marine navigation. These charts are vital not only for safe navigation, but also for understanding hazards at sea. What struck her most was just how much expertise, technology, and collaboration go into producing an accurate map of the ocean floor.

Even something as seemingly simple as knowing your position on the water is remarkably complex. A ship doesn’t just travel forward, it constantly pitches, rolls, and shifts. For mapping to be accurate, scientists must know the vessel’s position in three dimensions, down to the millimetre scale. They also need to account for tides, sea level, and the boat’s precise location on the globe.

With the enormous amount of physical things around you at this moment having at one point spent time on a boat, so much of our lives are dependent on the ocean. Accurate tsunami models also depend on this information, among many other things we take for granted.

Mapping the ocean floor is more than just an academic pursuit, it’s a vital part of life on this beautiful, watery planet.

Genuine versus fake

By Murray Smith, Bridges Church

Travelling through Turkey one day, I encountered a fascinating bazaar selling diverse products. One store boldly paraded a strange sign which made me laugh. This sign offered “genuine fake watches” for sale, featuring designer watch logos like Rolex, Omega, Cartier and others.

The claim of ‘genuine fake’ brands on offer was at least somewhat honest - they weren’t brazenly pitching ‘knock-off look-a-likes’ as the real thing.

Not so, visiting another store in China. I was shoulder tapped by a salesperson soliciting buyers for ‘quality brands’ of watches they had available. Here again the world’s elite designer watches were being offered at a fraction of the price you would expect to pay. Curious, I was ushered covertly into the back part of the store. Hushed and ‘discreet’ staff were evasive under pressure about admitting their watches were not authentic products. Acknowledging they were passing off cheap fake copies as real Rolex or Tissot watches, could lead to consequences. Superficially the watches looked authentic but any similarity ended there.

Put simply, however you slice or dice it, the question of ‘fake or real’ matters. I once purchased incredibly realistic ‘outdoor plants’ made of plastic. They passed for and looked just like the real thing - but their guarantee meant nothing. UV exposure slowly turned them shocking blue. Life offers us a multitude of fake stuff that only pretends to be ‘real’. People only counterfeit something that is valuable and special. Nobody bothers to counterfeit brown paper bags.

The lesson from “genuine fake watches”

What’s happening at the Cambridge Town Hall?

Cambridge Town Hall Open Day

– Come take a look inside!

Saturday 6 September

11am – 2pm

Join us on Saturday, 6 September to explore the newly renovated rooms at Cambridge Town Hall. Perfect for business events, workshops, milestone events, and community gatherings, our refreshed spaces blend heritage with modern functionality. Join us for a relaxed walk-through, meet the team, and envision your next event in one of our stunning heritage spaces. Free entry – all welcome! Proudly hosted by the Cambridge Town Hall Community Trust.

is that there’s no middle ground. They’ll either be genuine, or fake. With issues of ‘faith’ it’s no different. What you believe will either be true or false. Many counterfeit beliefs and religions are deceiving and taking in sincere people, leading them into error.

So… in the area of faith, can you be sure you’re on the right path and aren’t being taken in or misled ? It’s simple really and all revolves around the central figure of Christian faith… Jesus Christ Himself. Jesus’ affirmed that he was a man whose identity was God, claiming to be ‘the way, the truth, and the life’- the light of the world, the only hope of salvation and One who alone forgives our sins.

C.S. Lewis wrote “a man who was merely a man and said the sort of things Jesus said would not be a great moral teacher. He would either be a lunatic – on a level with the man who says he is a poached egg – or else he would be the Devil of Hell. You must make your choice.

Either this man was, and is, the Son of God: or else a madman or something worse. You can shut him up for a fool, you can spit at Him and kill Him as a demon; or you can fall at His feet and call Him Lord and God. But let us not come up with any patronising nonsense about His being a great human teacher. He has not left that open to us. He did not intend to.”

Life’s most important choice is whether we’ll tolerate something not real or build life on truth - the genuine, solid foundation of Jesus.

Simon Brew & Friends: Fundraiser for Cambridge Town Hall

Thursday 11 September | 7 – 8:45pm

Led by award winning saxophonist and Town Hall manager Simon Brew, this fundraiser concert features an electrifying mix of music and a stellar lineup of friends, including pianist Alexandra Wiltshire, singers Alice Collins and Noelle Savill plus acclaimed classical guitarist Owen Moriarty. All funds raised will be used to activate and preserve the historic Town Hall.

Silent Movies Live

Friday 19 September | 7 – 8:45pm

Experience classic silent Charlie Chaplin films accompanied by live music from pianist David Selfe and percussionist Jeremy Fitzsimons. First up is The Kid (1921), then the audience votes on the next film – either The Pawn Shop (1916) or A Dog’s Life (1918). This concert is in partnership with Chamber Music New Zealand.

Cambridge Chamber Music Festival

Friday 26 – Sunday 28 September

Join us at the first Cambridge Chamber Music Festival in the historic Cambridge Town Hall — featuring two captivating evening concerts and a light-hearted, familyfriendly Sunday morning performance. Artists include Jessica Oddie and Ken Ichinose (NZSO), Todd GibsonCornish Bassoon and Amanda Verner (Sydney Symphony), Matthias Balzat, Laurence Matheson, and Wilma Smith.

BOOK YOUR TICKETS NOW

You can book your tickets online at cth.co.nz/events-calendar or from the Town Hall

Trio named on water board

We invite applications for enrolments at Tamahere Model Country School for 2026. We are likely to have the following places available in 2026. Due to in zone roll growth a number of places may not be filled: We will be offering:

applicationsforenrolmentsatTamahe reModelCountrySchoolfor20 thefollowingplacesavailablein20 25.Duetoinzonerollgrowt maynotbefilled:

• Up to 10 places in Year 5 & 6

• Up to 10 places in Year 3 & 4

offering: ❖ Upto10placesinYear5&6 ❖ Upto12placesinYear3&4 ❖ Upto10placesinYear2 ❖ Upto12placesinYear1

• Up to 12 places in Year 2

• Up to 14 places in Year 1 Enrolments at our school are governed by an enrolment scheme. Details of our school’s ‘home zone’ and priority order, as set out by the Ministry of Education, are available for viewing on our website. Ballot forms and school viewing information are available from the school office. Phone (07) 856 9238 or email reception@tamahere.school.nz

By Chris Gardner

The mayors of the seven Waikato councils who are shareholders in a council-controlled water organisation have appointed an establishment board.

schoolaregovernedbyanenrolmentscheme.Detailsofour school’s priorityorder,assetoutbytheMinistryofEducation,areavailablefor website.Ballotformsandschoolviewinginformationareavailablefrom Phone(07)8569238oremailreception@tamahere.school.nz

The deadline for receipt of applications for out of zone places is 3.00pm on Thursday 2nd October 2025. Our Ballot will be drawn on Friday 10th October 2025.

The Board of Tamahere Model Country School

receiptofapplica tionsforoutofzoneplacesis 3.00pm on Thursday 4. OurBallotwillbedrawnonFriday18thOctober2024 TamahereModelCountrySchool

Waikato Water Ltd’s Shareholder Representative Forum, comprising the mayors of Ōtorohanga, Waipā and Waitomo district councils alongside Hauraki, Matamata-Piako, South Waikato, and Taupō have picked a three

strong establishment board.

A past president of Engineering New Zealand Elena Trout, of Auckland, will chair the board as all but one of the councils prepare to hand governance and delivery of drinking and wastewater services over to the organisation.

Taupō has signed up as a shareholder, but opted to keep water services in house.

Joining Trout on the establishment board is Pukekohe-based chartered

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accountant Jaydene Kana and Christchurch-based former Watercare chief executive Jon Lamonte.

The independent chair of Waikato Waters Ltd Shareholders Representative Forum Don McLeod said the establishment board had a broad range of professional and commercial governance skills.

The establishment board will oversee $1.6 billion in assets and $155 million in revenue.

CAMBRIDGE

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

7:07am, Garage fire, Burr Street

9:55am, Cardiac Arrest, Bryce Street

FRIDAY

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

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

2:06am, Building alarm and evacuation, Cambridge Road

SATURDAY

FRIDAY

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

12:08am, Building alarm and evacuation, King Street 12:40pm, Tree blocking road, Tirau Road

SUNDAY

MONDAY

3:53am, Medical assistance, Karapiro Road

6:25pm, Kitchen fire, May Street, Hamilton

Elena Trout Jaydene Kana

Jon Lamonte

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Chasing the votes

By Peter Carr

Observing the hustings in action is a cross between a third-grade rugby scrum and a beauty competition. The well-run Grey Power meeting last week became very boring - due to the repetition of the candidates going over common ground. Those with current experience as a mayor or councillor clearly had better facts at hand and this showed through very well during the subsequent question period.

That said, one current councillor threw away more than a bucketful of votes by leaving the meeting early without giving a reason. Another candidate, the current community board chair, immediately showed her grit, political nous and experience by (twice) declaring that she was there for the whole afternoon. One mayoral candidate jettisoned more than a modicum of support by droning on about her large family across two generations when she should have been using precious time clarifying what she was going to do to turn around the financial and communication woes of the council.

One Māori candidate did not front and there was a notable absence from a current regional council councillor.

Key items that did not surface during the prepared speeches were the regional council’s stupidity over a double vote on their Local Government New Zealand membership and a complete lack of any mention of the town’s hot potato – the third bridge. The latter, however, should surface more formally during the forthcoming work of the Cambridge Connections entity, but anyone who wants to produce a worthwhile debate still has time to put their foot into the fire.

The mayor made it clear that 20 to 30

council staff will transfer to the water entity, taking with them more than $230 million of (currently) council debt to their new group. This will improve the balance sheet of the council but will still come back to haunt the customers of the Water Done Well body when it sets its water rates. Ratepayers should not feel too comfortable for several years.

The devil in me ranked the presenters on a ‘scale of t10’ during their formal presentations where a minimal score of eight indicated a worthwhile aspirant. Two mayoral candidates scored 8.5 – the third did not make the minimum for consideration. Of the Waipā council candidates one – a very tall gentleman – came out well ahead at the top while another sitting councillor did not meet the threshold. The sitting regional councillor clearly had a good grip on the role and was well pursued (politically) by a well-known lady aspirant.

These are early days. There are a host of meetings yet to come – the next major one taking place at the town hall today. Voting papers will be in your mailboxes by next week and voting can commence. At the risk of being repetitively boring –your vote counts. Absolutely. There are a host of issues about which many of you find fault yet are not prepared to use your democratic right to put the right people in place at the public tables. These mainly earnest and honest people will never receive sufficient emolument to balance the huge amount of time that election to office will demand of them. Please recognise that by giving them a clear indication of your wishes.

5686 |

or

On the Hustings – with

Mary Anne Gill

Grey power enlists meow support

Move aside Larry, welcome Sami.

At last week’s Cambridge Grey Power “Meet the Candidates” forum, a friendly grey cat named Sami stole the show - wandering the hall, meowing his support, introducing himself to candidates and checking out the talent on offer.

Much like Larry, the famous feline resident of 10 Downing Street known for greeting dignitaries like Barack Obama and Donald Trump, Sami seemed to understand the importance of the occasion.

At one point, more eyes were on Sami than on the impressive array of candidates gathered in the Trinity St Paul’s Unity Parish Hall.

Sami stayed behind when his owners moved away from across the road. He had spent so much time at St Paul’s that remaining felt like the right thing to do. Now about three years old, Sami enjoys being around people - so a full house of 104 attendees and 28 candidates was perfect company.

Leading up to the event, Grey Power members worried no one would show.

Organiser Val Holmes said they were blown away by the turnout.

“In the past, we’ve had meetings where there were more candidates than people,” she said.

There were a few lighthearted moments, like when meeting chair Michael Cullen mistakenly called the first speaker “Stuart Reymer” - his name is actually Garry. The confusion was understandable, given the presence of Stuart Matthews, Stuart Hylton, and Stewart Dromgool.

Graeme Allen, a recent arrival from Hamilton, drew groans when he praised Cambridge’s low traffic. He previously worked for the former Cambridge Borough Council but assured the audience he carried no baggage.

James Slyfield, the youngest candidate at 19, called for a stronger youth voice. Other candidates advocated for greater transparency, lower rates, fewer speed humps, and a halt to pet projects.

The infamous Blue Blob –now tipped for inclusion in the Oxford Dictionary as a term for “failed community

engagement in Cambridge” -was cited as the reason for Pip Kempthorne, Barry Quayle and Stuart Matthews entering the race.

“We suffered a catastrophic, organisational failure,” said Kempthorne.

“That was the tipping point – the Blue Blob, the Town Clock and the state of Lake Te Koo Utu,” said Matthews.

“Then the Long Term Plan, the mechanism for driving rates. I’m aware of what’s needed to turn this ship around,” said Quayle.

Cullen also stumbled over Aidhan Camson’s name (pronounced AY-den, meaning “little fire”), who told the audience: “council should control change before change controls us”.

Incumbent Roger Gordon reflected on his six years on council, saying he had enjoyed the role and wasn’t afraid to be the lone voice in opposition.

Stuart Hylton shared that his notes had blown out the car window - but he didn’t need them. Jo Davies-Colley said she had listened and learned during her six years on the community board and was ready to take the next step.

Mike Cater looked to garner support from Good Local Media when he called for the council to use local media as a tool.

“Build a strong, positive relationship with our media –have some transparency.”

Mayoral candidates wrapped up the debate –Susan O’Regan and Mike Pettit both opting to wear bright colours. O’Regan said she had always fronted up, led the reset of Cambridge Connections and listened.

Pettit, known for his teambuilding skills, accidentally flipped a well-known saying: “It takes a child to raise a village,” he said, drawing a few laughs from a flagging audience.

Clare St Pierre revealed she was one of 11 children and had been on committees since she was 14.

Columnist Peter Carr won the raffle during the break before audience questions,

which tended to favour incumbents.

The final question came from regular The News letter writer Alan Hayward: How did Waipā accumulate $400 million in debt?

O’Regan said the debt was unsustainable, but $230 million would be transferred to the new Local Water Done Well company, and $80 million was owed in development levies.

“It will be paid back in time,” Pettit added.

Meanwhile, the Kihikihi Residents and Ratepayers group hosted a well-attended meeting at the Alpha Hotel, now boasting a freshly tarsealed frontage. Inside, however, a mysterious squeak - possibly from pipes or within the walls - persisted throughout the two meetings. Our reporter Jesse Wood was unable to trace its source but did find there were common themes of rates, debt and transparency.

• Sensible and considered decision making

• Local solutions for local issues.

“No politics – just common sense”

As a 4th generation local farmer and long term Waipa-King Country resident, I will make decisions that serve the best interests of our ratepayers and our local communities. I stand for :

Sami, the grey church cat at the meeting

The audience came armed with copies of our newspaper which featured candidates’ photos.

Authorised by Stu Kneebone, 271 Baker Road, RD4 Cambridge

Answers on borrowing, boards

We challenged every council candidate to respond to 10 questions on issues such as borrowing to fund shortfalls, Ahu Ake, Cambridge Connections, urban intensification, council expenditure, Māori wards, community boards, Te Ara Wai’s future, Lake Karāpiro and their vision for Waipā.

We asked community board candidates whether councillors should sit on boards, do they support a Māori seat, should CBDs be the main retail hub, what involvement should community board chairs have at council, the level of consultation in Cambridge and Kihikihi, decision making, discretionary grants and the future of boards.

Their answers are going up on our websites as we process them –cambridgenews.nz and teawamutunews.nz.

Click on Elections2025 and the answers to those questions are there.

Waipā is currently running operational deficits over three years, which reduces the annual rates increase by around 4%. To fund this gap, the council is borrowing an average of $8 million per year.

a. Were you aware of this funding strategy?

b. Do you agree with the approach of borrowing to fund operational shortfalls as prudent rather than raising rates to fully fund current operations? Why or why not?

Mayor Susan O’Regan

The assertion in this question that we are borrowing to fund operating deficits for the first three years is not correct. The forecast operating deficits are the result

of not fully funding depreciation during those three years. While they are forecast accounting deficits, they are not cash deficits and therefore no borrowing is required to fund the shortfall. As the depreciation funding shortfall is made up in subsequent years we felt the budget was prudent. It is an important principle that we try not to borrow to fund operations.

Clare St Pierre

While not ideal, I see it as prudent as a short-term affordability measure to keep rates lower. The shortfall isn’t entirely funded by increased borrowing. Operating reserves were used to reduce the overall rates requirement (and reserves aren’t counted in the balanced budget formula), some depreciation costs of about $1.5 Million per year were unfunded (catch up takes place in later years), and certain operating costs for projects like the District Plan and Ahu Ake - Waipā Community Spatial Plan were loan funded rather than rates funded was deemed acceptable due to the long-term nature of these plans.

Māori Ward

Dale-Maree Morgan

Borrowing can ease short-term pressure, but it’s not a permanent solution. We need clear priorities, continued cost control, honest conversations with the community about sustainable options before increasing debt or rates.

Cambridge Ward

Mike Cater

Generally speaking, council should

endeavour to live within its means – prudent would have been not placing our community and ratepayers in this position in the first place. The ‘nice-to-haves’ should be put on the backburner until such time they are affordable. Ratepayers are not a neverending source of ever-increasing revenue. Other revenue streams should be considered other than hitting the ratepayer.

Karla Lugatiman

With my background in financial stewardship and business operations, I know that borrowing funds may ease pressure in the short term, but I believe that it is not sustainable longterm. Council should be more transparent with ratepayers, ensuring every dollar is spent wisely. I am more in favour of a balanced approach, where we review operational costs, cut inefficiencies and prioritise core services before increasing debt further. If borrowing cannot be avoided completely, it must be linked to future benefits that deliver real value for Waipa ratepayers.

Cambridge Community Board

We asked should councillors sit on the two community boards and whether the boards should continue to exist.

Graeme Allen

I think it is important a councillor sits on the board as it lends authenticity to the advocacy. A ward councillor has also been voted onto council by the residents in the board area, so would be expected to be involved in the local issues.

Yes. So long as they are beneficial, being used by residents for feedback or complaints and taken note of by council. If used appropriately they can save council staff time when gauging residents’ comments/opinions.

Pip Kempthorne

The community board is structured to get an interface between the community and the council. As a result, having a councillor representing the governance group on the local community board makes a lot of sense. The Cambridge Community Board and other local community board groups are an essential part of a functioning democracy. Their very structure and focus are designed to ensure that local concerns and initiatives are not lost in the complexities of managing a district such as Waipa. They must remain for the good of the residents, town and the district.

Karen Morris

Councillors should sit on the community boards as provided for in the representation arrangements. This helps with communication flows between council and the community board. However, they must remember the two hats they wear and ensure they don’t dominate community board decision-making. This does need checking in on every now and then with a representation review. Community boards come at a cost so it’s important they create value. I think the Cambridge Community Board proved its value last year when things went wrong with Cambridge Connections.

Mayoral hopefuls have their say

We asked the Waikato and Waipā mayoral candidates 10 questions.

They included how they would cut “waste”, reforming their council, rates capping, transparency, community engagement, the role of local media and why they want to be mayor.

Their responses are on our website cambridgenews.nz and click on the Elections 2025 tab.

Below are the two we asked them about amalgamation with other councils and who would they choose as their deputy mayor. Waikato Aksel Bech – born in Denmark, studied at Waikato University, was the Tamahere representative for six years and deputy for three.

I support amalgamation of services – shared services- starting immediately as that requires no legislative change. Representational amalgamation should be explored but will of course take time but as our locals travel freely across Waipā, Waikato and the city, they pay no regard to council boundaries. Ultimately we should mirror that.

My choice of deputy will be based on

skills and experience. In business I have always tried to put together the strongest team possible, including those that bring different skills and experiences, perspectives and points of view - I think that criteria beats geography.

Jacqui Church – fourth term on council, last three as mayor, lives at Port Waikato and is a business owner.

Amalgamation is inevitable for smaller councils over time, with planned, shared services increasing. Re-amalgamation has happened in the past and must continue, keeping local government relevant and effective. Collaboration is occurring now in the Waikato through Co-Lab, the Mayoral Forum, Futureproof and Council Controlled Organisations for Three Waters. Localism’s a choice of the people.

Deputy mayors are critical for democracy, the people and mayor. Like councillors; strategically supporting, advising, leading and representing all our district. My deputy will be chosen for the best operational synergy of council, the people choose. To best represent our citizens for robust, stable, effective governance and representation, not egos.

Waipā

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Susan O’Regan – born in Rukuhia, former lawyer, award-winning farmer, first elected 2016, chaired Strategic Committee, last three as mayor.

We need to do local government better. Rationalisation or regionalisation of local government is inevitable with the aggregation of water from July 2026. But that doesn’t necessarily mean wholesale amalgamation. It will mean having a wider discussion about how efficiencies might be found without the loss of local voice.

It is too premature to think about deputy mayor. The voters need to choose their representatives first. My role, whoever is elected around the table, will be to create a strong team using their skills and passions. Good leadership is about enabling and empowering all those around you.

Mike Pettit – born in Kawakawa, school principal from 2008, Cambridge Community Board from 2018 and council since 2019.

I believe amalgamation discussions will come, particularly once the water reforms are completed and the sector’s future is clearer. It is better to lead this conversation on our own terms, ensuring Waipā’s interests are protected, rather than risk being forced

into a model designed elsewhere and forced upon us.

The deputy mayor must be someone with integrity, proven governance experience, and the ability to represent all of Waipā. Together, we must have synergy and importantly, form a strong leadership team. Location alone should not determine the appointment. The role is important for balance, continuity, and leadership across the district.

Clare St Pierre – born in Te Rore, first class honours in Business Studies, NZ Institute of Directors chartered member, council since 2013.

Yes. I have already been calling for Waipā to review what would be left of our business after water services shift to a joint CCO and it makes sense to look to the other councils in that CCO arrangement to join up with for more savings.

Location will definitely be important so a Cambridge deputy mayor is my plan. I want to be a mayor that’s seen in the community but having an experienced, respected and community-focused deputy mayor based in Cambridge as one of my closest advisors/ collaborators will create an incredibly effective leadership combination.

Aksel Bech

Clare St Pierre Jacqui Church

Mike Pettit

Susan O’Regan

Beekeepers draw a beeline

By Chris Gardner

A revised bylaw including guidance notes asking beekeepers to stop bees pooping on neighbours’ properties is being described by a leading beekeeper as draconian.

Ōtorohanga District Council updated its Animal Nuisance Bylaw last week, asking beekeepers in the Ōtorohanga and Kāwhia townships to manage bee flightpaths by repositioning hives to face away from neighbouring properties.

The bylaw is based on similar legislation passed by Waipā District Council in 2022.

Waikato Domestic Beekeepers’ Association president Dr Dara Dimitrov said instead of passing draconian regulations councils could be working with beekeepers and their hives to achieve United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

“They treat bees as stock, and I don’t think they should,” Dimitrov said.

Such regulations were introducing an unnecessary layer of regulation on top of national rules for nearly 8200 beekeepers keeping nearly 520,000 hives.

“Councils should work with local beekeepers and find a middle ground. Councils need to take a more functional and operational approach to beekeeping,” Dimitrov said.

“It’s good for the community, it’s great for the environment.”

Bees are known to pollinate up to three kilometres from their hives. “That pollination service is free,” Dimitrov said.

She praised Hamilton City Council for working with beekeepers and publishing a list of swarm collectors on its website.

“Our members are happy to move those bees for free.”

Ōtorohanga bee keeper Natalie Southgate persuaded the council to tweak the bylaw.

She disagreed with the condition that beehives must be placed no closer than 25 metres from the property boundary or separated from the property boundary by a solid 1.8 metre fence.

“Instead of requiring a solid fence, I’d encourage the council to consider natural screening, like hedges or shrubs, as a valid alternative,” she said.

Council regulatory and growth group manager Tony Quickfall was happy to give

beekeepers an alternative to a solid fence by adding natural screening.

Southgate also disagreed with a condition that suitable water source must be provided near the beehives that is accessible at all times.

“This really should be optional,” Southgate said.

“Even when water is provided, bees will often prefer puddles, drains, or animal troughs. Open water sources like birdbaths or buckets can be hazardous — bees drown easily if there aren’t textured edges or safe places to land.” Quickfall said the

requirement or water could come out, as it was not related to bees being a nuisance, but mayor Max Baxter suggested it stay in, and natural water supplies considered too.

Southgate said the council should aim for practical and flexible rules based on realworld experience.

“We all support safe, responsible beekeeping — but it’s education and cooperation that lead to better outcomes, not overly rigid regulations,” she said.

“Let’s make it easier, not harder, for people to keep bees well.”

On the bylaw’s guidance notes Quickfall said: “Those are just guidance notes. While they are in the bylaw, there’s no regulatory control in those notes.”

“Bees are our friends, so we are not trying to control or manage bees or make it harder,” he said.

Quickfall said the council didn’t do proactive monitoring.

“The way this bylaw is intended to work, it’s if we get a complaint, and if we regulate, we are expected to respond and manage complaints,” he said.

“If someone complained to us that there was bee

Records tumble in powerlifting

By Jesse Wood

Seventy New Zealand records and 18 world records were broken at Te Awamutu’s ASB Stadium during the Global Powerlifting Committee national championships.

The August event attracted 85 competitors.

Trainstation gym coach, event organiser and GPC New Zealand president Mike Smith said a third of the world records were set by Trainstation Te Awamutu members Sarah Guise, Caci Karam, Tracy Karam, Sean Logan, Chara Reti and himself. Smith said Cyril Heywood from Blenheim and Logan are highly rated.

“Sean Logan hit the all-time biggest squat in New Zealand at 410kg. He already had it, so he evened it. So that’s out by about 30kg from anybody previously,” Smith said.

“He attempted the all-time dead lift record of 425. He missed that but he took a world record on his opener at 365 and cemented a 395.

“What Sean did, is something pretty special. In Te Awamutu, the biggest squat ever in New Zealand - and twice. He’s already got the biggest deadlift in New Zealand.”

Logan and Hayward will compete at the Australian invite only ProRaw powerlifting event in November.

“This was a stepping stone

for them, kind of like a training day,” Smith said. “Sean was only in prep, so whatever he does in Australia, I would say will be significantly better still.”

The Karam family are becoming a force to be reckoned with. All three Karam competitors now hold world records.

“Xavier didn’t get one this time, but he got one in 2023 and 2024. Caci has one and Tracey

now has three,” Smith said.

“Tracey came and watched a meet 18 months ago, thought this looks fun. She dragged her family along and now they’re all setting world records.”

Seven Waipā powerlifters were also selected for the New Zealand team to compete in Brazil at the GPC worlds in October.

Reti, Smith, Tracey and Xavier will represent Waipa on the world stage, as will Hamilton’s

Cat and Jared Seeney who have close connections to Waipā.

Cambridge’s Ben Barrott and Elijah Morton-Jones also impressed.

Morton-Jones was second overall in the teens division.

“He beat guys that are 20-30kg heavier and set New Zealand records. Ben broke a New Zealand bench record. These kids are 16. Ben is 74kg and he benched 150kg.

excrement on clothing out on the washing line that’s hard to get rid of, or someone who’s living next to a beehive who might be anaphylactic, or sensitive like schools or rest homes. That’s what this bylaw is intended to cover.”

Beekeeping education and consultancy service business

Sarah C’s Bees founder Sarah Cross supported Southgate’s submission

“There is no way to manage flightpaths,” Cross said. “The fence is to make the bees fly up, so as not to fly directly into people walking past, but once they are up and out, they can, and will, go in every direction searching for food.

“The council needs reminding about the amazing work that bees do pollinating our food resources. I take bees into schools to add to the education that kids are receiving about the ‘paddock to plate’ and enviro school ideas. Our food doesn’t magically appear in the shops; there is a whole connected environment required and a huge part of that is bees and pollination.”

“Bees should be treated with respect and kindness because without them the world would literally starve,” Cross said.

Reds pipped at the post

Cambridge’s first season in the Northern League football championship finished in bitter sweet fashion on Saturday.

The men were set a challenging target of beating Wanderers in Hamilton while hoping results elsewhere went their way to secure second place – and promotion to the premiership.

Part one was achieved – a 2-1 away win secured in added time with yet another Josh Clarkin goal.

But Northern Rovers beat league champions Manukau United 3-1 to finish third – and Melville’s 2-1 win over Hibiscus Coast at Gower Park ensure they were promoted straight back in the premiership in second place.

It was another match of late drama as all the goals came in injury time- first to Hibs, then two to Melville in the 98th and 101st minute.

Melville will be the sole Waikato representative in the premiership next season, and Ngāruawāhia, beaten 4-0 at Onehunga Mangere will drop down – probably to Waikato division one where that league was won by Cambridge.

It’s been a remarkable season for the Waipā club, which won promotion from the Southern Conference 12 months ago to rub shoulders with three other Waikato clubs.

At the same time the club’s women’s team also won a playoff to reach the Northern League and this season established themselves to finish fifth in the eight team competition won by Melville with a game in hand.

Three extra points were secured by Cambridge on Sunday with a 3-1 win over Central United.

Meanwhile Cambridge finished second in the Northern League under-23 men’s championship.

Ōtorohanga bee keeper Natalie Southgate persuaded her district council to tweak its Animal Nuisance Bylaw.

Sean Logan’s 410kg all-time best squat.

Of gorse these wētā can survive

The wētā saved by – of all things – gorse - continue to multiply.

Almost 200 Māhoenui giant wētā have been moved from their man-made breeding ground – the Ōtorohanga Kiwi House - to Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari.

The giant wētā is one of the world’s largest insects, measuring up to 7cm and weighing 15 grams and live exclusively in the North Island.

It was found on the Rauputu family farm at Māhoenui near Piopio in 1962 having taken refuge from introduced pests in gorse. A family member took one to school, the headmaster was intrigued and had it identified.

Gorse provides a sanctuary from rats, hedgehogs and possums and browsing goats encourages regrowth. So despite its unwanted status in New Zealand, gorse is still used as a haven for the wētā at Māhoenui.

Department of Conservation staff have been working with Ōtorohanga Kiwi House on a breeding programme and the last week’s release on Maungatautari followed an initial one about 12 years ago.

They have also been sent to private land at Warrenheip near Cambridge and Mahurangi Island off the Coromandel coast.

“Our hope is they breed with offspring of those Māhoenui

giant wētā released at Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari in 2012-13,” DOC Senior Biodiversity Advisor Amanda Haigh said.

The nocturnal wētā were released into selected locations across Mount Maungatautari.

Earlier this year the Kiwi House outlined its plan to release a total of 3000 wētā into the wild over three years. The aim is to establish biodiverse populations outside of the remnant population in Māhoenui.

A facility comprising laboratories and a quarantine devoted to raising the insects was opened at the Kiwi House in May last year. Marina and Ngātai Rauputu, on whose land the Māhoenui giant wētā was originally identified, were at the opening.

Marae in the Piopio, Āria and Māhoenui areas – the Mōkau ki Runga hapū – gifted the name ‘Taonga o Kawakawa’, the treasure of Kawakawa to the new wing at Ōtorohanga’s Kiwi House.

Kawakawa is the name of the land on which the Māhoenui giant wētā was found – it is now a scientific reserve.

Earlier this year The News reported the Kiwi House was applying for funding to grow the programme and recruit a full-time keeper.

The team at the facility hatched more than 350 wētā nymphs in January and February. In the previous breeding season it produced 140 nymphs and 110 were being released as adults.

MIKE PETTIT 4 WAIPĀ

Māhoenui wētā lay their eggs by pushing their egg laying tube into the ground. They lay small groups of up to 100 eggs which develop in the ground and hatch when the weather warms up, which can take up to 10 months.

Newly hatched wētā are called nymphs. It takes up to two years for the wētā to reach adulthood.

There are about 100 types of wētā – which are flightless crickets –including 11 giant wētā.

Earlier in August it was

announced two new species of wētā had been discovered on Stewart Island and in the northern Fiordland region. And in April 2022 six new species of wētā and three new subspecies of alpine cave wētā were also found in the South Island. Wētā played a key role before the introduction of mammals which preyed on them. They acted as ground dwelling predators, scavengers and herbivores –effectively doing the work of rodents.

“We

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Champions authentic engagement - listening first, acting with purpose

Proposes youth and senior councils to give all generations a voice

Advocating for collaboration across communities and sectors

REALISM

Commitment to financial transparency and zero-based budgeting

Exploring alternative funding models to take pressure off rates

Supports councillor training in financial literacy, strategic planning and governance

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Plans for a Te Awamutu CBD upgrade and Cambridge transport improvements

Supports cost-effective delivery of amenities; libraries, sports facilities and rural village improvements

Focused on tangible, timely outcomes for all of Waipā

Ōtorohanga Kiwi House keepers Carly Hill and Paul Barrett were pictured earlier this year servicing Māhoenui giant wētā nymphs.

A Māhoenui giant wētā.

Photos: Chris Gardner.

Racing call controversy

By Jesse Wood

Corey Steele is at a crossroads as uncertainty looms following the government’s decision to shut down the greyhound racing industry in New Zealand.

The Te Awamutu-based thirdgeneration trainer and Waikato Greyhound Racing vice president trains his dogs on dad Wayne and mum Tracey’s property, Te Māwhai Racing Kennels.

He said he feels “deflated” and believes the human aspect of the ban has been forgotten.

“I lie here at night, I don’t sleep, constantly thinking about what tomorrow brings,” Steele said. “We’re still being tarnished with this terrible brush that we’re monsters.

“I enjoy what I do, I love the dogs like they’re my kids. I want to see them succeed and if they succeed, then I can continue doing what I’m doing. Now I can’t.”

In December, the government announced an intention to legislate to ban greyhound racing.

Following a cabinet meeting last week, Minister of racing Winston Peters released a statement confirming the government will be banning greyhound racing from August 2026.

Peters said the decision was driven by protecting the welfare of racing dogs. They confirmed

they would take on board every aspect of the Ministerial Advisory Committee’s report.

He says despite significant progress made by the greyhound racing industry in recent years, the percentage of dogs being injured remained persistently high and the time had come to make a call in the best interest of the animals. He said globally the industry was winding down.

The industry has called for a judicial review.

Recommendations adopted by cabinet include closure of an incorporated society and seizure of in excess $15 million in Greyhound Racing New Zealand and club assets; no compensation for the 1054 full time employees who lose their jobs; continuation of taking $223m ($48m profit) in bets annually on Australian greyhounds’ and after the dogs are rehomed, all GRNZ assets and future profit from Australian greyhound betting will be transferred to horse racing.

“Winston still hasn’t met with Greyhound Racing New Zealand or any industry participants – not one,” Steele said.

“You’re closing down 1054 people’s livelihoods. You’d think you’d at least stand up and front their questions, their concerns, the people.”

Steele said he and others like him have been investing in their properties for decades – now it

will all go to waste.

Owners are now expected to look after their dogs until they can be rehomed, he said.

“We’ll be forced to give up our dogs because of our loss of income. There is absolutely no way that I could work a nine to five job and be able to keep all my dogs as pets.

GRNZ chief executive Edward Rennell said it was “a disdainful approach to lawmaking and a particularly brutal way to treat people”.

“Their heartless disregard for destroying thousands of livelihoods of regional Kiwis to satisfy an urban elite and reward horse racing is frankly depressing.

“The truth is our people are honest, hard-working and look after their dogs. We meet all welfare requirements the government makes of us, endorsed by their own Racing Integrity Board.

“They’re up against a government that just doesn’t care about the loss of a 150-year-old sport, lifestyles, and jobs. The minister still won’t communicate or meet with us.

“Instead, they will shut down an incorporated society that hasn’t done anything illegal, seize $15m of the sport’s hardearned money, permit broadcasts of 48,000 Australian greyhound races and take $223m in bets.”

Corey Steele fears for his and his dog’s future.

Photo: Rhian Farrell

BATTLE OF BRITAIN

Humorous ridicule (6)

Dampen (7)

Complaint (colloq) (4)

Itinerant (11)

Spur 4. Survey 8. Conceal 9. Stall 10. Slip 11. Reprieve 13. Near thing 17. Ambulant 19. Clog 21. Magma 22. Unaware 23. Intend 24. Mite. Down: 2. Pension 3. Reel 4. Silver-tongued 5. Restrain 6. Erase 7. Sleek 8. Case 12. Tall tale 14. Gallant 15. Balmy 16. Ogle 18. Begin 20. Calm.

RBXDHRTECZTIMHZIPA IQITEUEMAIMAHZLLTC CPDLNDMEVDEGREEOHR GIUIIOSABETPOUNDNE WRMWHERSDBXHTZGBBG CVATMGDURATIONTRTA SGAMQRTRAYZHZIHOUL CFAIAILEAMOUNTIANL BTLYNEIMPERIALVDXO RPTGBCCEDHUWPLFZON XNAIWMHNHEIGHTPSUN SMCKAMSTVOLUMEIINC VELOCITYGDUSTONECS DSPBWEIGHTAREATDEP

4

3

Family Living in Norfolk Downs

- Two Distinct Living Areas – Perfectly configured for both relaxed family time and formal entertaining.

- Study Nook – Ideal for remote work, homework, or managing the household with ease.

- Covered Alfresco – Enjoy your barbecue on a nice covered outdoor living space.

- Superior Build Quality – Constructed in 2020 with thoughtful detail and enduring style.

- Privately tucked off the road this home boasts family kitchen, lounge and dining with doors to patio for alfresco dining.

- A separate lounge for cosy evenings and movie nights.

- HRV system, under floor heating(tiled areas), heat pumps in every bedroom plus the main lounge, ensures year-round comfort.

- Generously sized master suite is a true retreat, complete with walk-in wardrobe, ensuite and double doors to your own patio.

- Carpeted internal-access garage adds even more functionality.

- Stunning 264m² home situated on a spacious 1858m² (more or less) section, featuring a wide entry drive that enhances roadside appeal.

- Step outside to enjoy your own private oasis, an inviting heated pool, enhanced by colourful lighting.

- Heart of the home lies in its open-plan kitchen, dining & family room.

- Family room is accentuated by striking vaulted ceiling, includes a cleverly concealed office nook complete with built-in desk/shelving.

- Portico area, featuring a beautifully raked pitched ceiling, enhances the sense of openness and connection to the outdoors.

- A gorgeous central hallway sets the tone, with rich detailing and a graceful flow that leads you through the home.

- Master bedroom includes a stylish ensuite adorned with stunning tin pressed walls and double wardrobes.

- Generously sized bedrooms offer plenty of space and natural light.

- Step outside and enjoy two separate private outdoor entertaining areas – perfect for hosting guests, alfresco dining.

- A real bonus is the lined garage with ranch slider access, offering a versatile space ideal for a studio, home gym, workshop or living.

Townhouse living, with modern comforts, the benefits of double glazing and both a heat pump and a gas fireplace, and three sun drenched bedrooms, two bathrooms, internal access garaging, and in a tucked

cul-de-sac in Cambridge Park. Ideal for downsizers, professionals, investors, and young families, this lock-up-and-leave lifestyle leaves more time to do the things you love, with the people you love! This immaculately presented home sits proudly on a freehold site, framed by established landscaping and abundant citrus and has a well thought through layout that offers options! Light-filled living areas, with an exquisite atrium dining area, contemporary kitchen with quality appliances, incuding induction cooking, bi-fold windows to a private courtyard, and the ability to throw the doors open to a north facing patio — an inviting spot for your morning coffee or summer entertaining. bayleys.co.nz/2350978

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BRADLEY, Edward Black

(Eddie) – Passed away peacefully on Thursday 28 August 2025, aged 90 years. Much loved and loving husband of Marie for 71 years. Loved father and father-in-law of Robert and Hannah, Fiona, Sharon and Tony, Kimberley and Christopher, James and Liw, Julie and Neville. Adored grandad, great-grandad and great-great-grandad of his many grandchildren and their families. A celebration of Eddie’s life has been held.

MURPHY Terence Gordon, (Terry) – Passed away peacefully on Saturday 23 August 2025, aged 91 years. Dearly loved husband of the late Joy Murphy. Father & father-in-law of Noeleen and the late Howard Christensen and Jill & Andrew Wilson. Special Grandy to Zack and Rebecca, Bryce; Greg and Adam. Cherished brotherin-law of Eric & Lynne Hill; uncle of Paul and Andrea and families. Special thanks to the staff of Cambridge Life for the care of Dad. A service to celebrate Terry’s life will be held at Woolertons' Funeral Home Chapel, 8 Railside Place, Hamilton on Friday 5 September at 11.00am. Communications to the Murphy Family C/- PO Box 276, Hamilton 3240.

MERTON, Tony Alfred –

Passed away peacefully at Waikato Hospital on Friday, 29th August 2025, aged 80 years, after a brief illness. Loving father to Richard, James & Kylie and Mindy. Cherished grandad to Logan and Dani. Devoted partner and friend to Margaret Jalil. Adopted Dad and companion to Carl his beloved greyhound. The family sincerely thank Waikato Hospice, Waikato Hospital, and St John for their exceptional care and compassion shown to Tony in his final weeks. A memorial service to celebrate Tony’s life will be held at the Victorian Room, Cambridge Town Hall, Victoria Street, Cambridge on Thursday, 11th September 2025 at 11:00am. Messages to the Merton family may be sent c/- 3 Hallys Lane, Cambridge 3434, or placed in Tony’s online tribute book at www. grinters.co.nz.

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Is this the end of the Peace Cup?

A couple of weeks ago The News reported that Maniapoto had lifted the Peace Cup after a one-off challenge against Central Bay of Plenty in Rotorua. But the old trophy – a symbol of rugby sub-union supremacy which has enjoyed – or endured – a colourful life for more than a century, was never presented. Today Jesse Wood reveals why – and reports that there is a school of thought that suggests the battered old cup should be gracefully retired.

Many are calling for the historic Peace Cup trophy to be retired following a lack of competition teams and broken competition rules.

The “ugliest trophy in New Zealand sport” has been through the mill in its century of existence.

Hamilton accountant Richard “Dick” English donated the trophy to his local team after the culmination of World War I.

Sub-union rugby teams have competed for the cup since the start.

Thames were the first winners in 1920.

According to the New Zealand Rugby History website run by rugby historian Keith Gordon, “sub-unions are areas within a provincial union that join for matches against other sub-unions or play each other within that sub-union for local supremacy. It is a step up from neighbouring rivalry.”

The Peace Cup has been contested by sub-unions between from Taupō to south to Auckland in the north.

Previous winners include Te Awamutu, Hamilton, Morrinsville, Rotorua, Central Bay of Plenty, Thames, South Waikato, Matamata, Maniapoto, Tauranga, Pukekohe, Hauraki Plains, Paeroa, Western Bay of Plenty, Ōtorohanga, Waihi, Cambridge and Te Puke.

Hamilton were 2024 champions but chose not to field a team this season due to only two other teams putting their hands up – a Maniapoto team and Central Bay of Plenty sub-union.

“At the beginning of the year, there was a meeting of what should have been subunion representatives and parties interested in the Peace Cup,” Hamilton Rugby Union chairman Doug Hawkings said.

“Hamilton made it clear, that if there weren’t four teams, we wouldn’t enter a team.

“The Peace Cup is on its last legs and it’s been on life support for the last few years.

“Whoever participates in it plays on the proviso they are a sub-union or a combination of sub-unions.

“Piako and Matamata had joined together in the past. They didn’t have enough players, they hate each other but played Peace Cup together.

“The last three years we’ve had four teams at max and it’s just not financially viable.”

The Maniapoto side faced Central Bay of Plenty for the Peace Cup last month.

Hawkings said the collective sub-union representatives believed the Maniapoto team represented the Maniapoto sub-union team – but then learned it was a Maniapoto iwi team.

Founded in 1907, Maniapoto sub-union haven’t had a squad in many years and Waitete and Piopio are the last two senior clubs in their area.

“The game became null and voided - they weren’t a sub-union, and the players who played in their team weren’t all registered to sub-unions in the King Country,” Hawkings said.

“In the rules it says you can bring in four outside players who have connections, five wouldn’t really matter, but when it’s half the team, it’s not in the spirit of what the Peace Cup is about.

an enduring relationship with the iwi, but they’re not part of a sub-union team within the King Country.

“It was about the integrity of the Peace Cup, so that’s effectively what it came down to.”

As the competition dwindles, Peace Cup tragics and representatives are calling for the trophy to be retired and put on display at the New Zealand Rugby Museum in Palmerston North.

“If we want to start a competition with other teams involved, I’d have no problem with that, but the Peace Cup should be retired and given the respect it deserves,” Hawkings said.

“I don’t have any qualms from where I sit with Hamilton playing against the Maniapoto iwi team or the like, but the Peace Cup has been a sub-union competition for 105 years.

“If we had known beforehand, we would have had a meeting to discuss that and made a decision at that point as to whether the game should have gone ahead or not.”

Hawkings said if the team was a combination of North King Country and Maniapoto sub-unions, it would have been fine.

“It might have been representative of the King Country but it wasn’t representative of those two clubs involved in that sub-union, so the team shouldn’t have been in the competition.”

To be eligible to play in the competition, a player must have played or been registered to a club or team from within their team’s union/sub-union catchment area, during the current year.

“At least seven players came from the Hamilton sub-union in 2025. They may have

Teams can play up to four non local club players. The understanding is that these players have a connection to the host subunion. If a loan player comes from a subunion within the current competition, the host sub-union must seek clearance from that players’ sub-union, to play.

Dick English’s grandson Duncan Johnstone with the Peace Cup (in its case) in 2020. Photo: Andrew Young