A league in union
Branch members from Kawhia, Te Awamutu and Ōtorohanga joined their Te Kuiti colleagues and Tainui regional executive members last weekend for a significant anniversary.
Te Tokanganui-ā-Noho Māori Women’s Welfare League celebrated their 75th jubilee on Sunday at Te Kuiti Pa.
Past members also travelled from Auckland, Hamilton, Tauranga, Rotorua and throughout the King Country.
“This auspicious occasion was hastily organised in under a month as the date August 28, 1950, was recently noted on an historic league banner,” branch president Dede Downs said.
A History Project committee, which had been collecting and collating data over the past few months, swung into action to present displays of documents and photographs depicting activities over the
past 75 years.
“We have all been inspired by our branch history, membership is growing day by day, and we welcome like-minded wahine to join us in our mahi within local communities,” Downs said.
Tainui Te Rōpū Wāhine Māori i te Ora league executive Jamie Toko called the gathering a milestone occasion.
Among the memories were bill board size pictures of the league’s national conference held in 1951. They were a focal point for discussions and memories as current members pointed out their mothers, grandmothers, aunties and cousins among the faces. Alongside these were smaller personal photos of members and books that referenced the works of the branch.
Among the books was one penned by the late Rora Paki-Titi, titled Rangimarie, Recollections of her life, published in 1998.
The book recounts King Country life from the 19th century to present day. The author was a foundation member of the Māori Women’s Welfare League and appointed in 1991 as a Member of the Order of the British Empire.
On the day a short passage from the book was read aloud. It described an uprising of Māori women from within the regions of Maniapoto, motivated by the overpowering urge to enhance the status of Māori women in their homes, in their communities and across the nation.
As the passage was read, it mentioned names and roles of individuals, that brought an instant smile for some who listened and it acknowledged those who supported the movement..
Also on display was a large picture of the late Dame Rangimarie Hetet, a past patroness of the branch, a kākahu she
Respect fenced areas
had woven and work in progress from great granddaughter and great great granddaughter Clowdy and Hinearangi Ngatai who are fourth and fifth generation members of league.
The inclusion of weaving in the display acknowledged the critical role played by the league in providing a platform to call to action Māori women around the nation to retain the practice of Māori weaving. It is a role both Diggeress Te Kanawa and Rangimarie Hetet have been noted for.
The Māori Women’s Welfare League website notes it was officially founded in 1951 and is the only national charitable Māori women’s organisation. It has more than 150 peka – branches – and their motto, Tatau Tatau stands for working together as an organisation, to enable and empower Māori women and their whānau to follow and achieve their aspirations.
Sunday’s gathering attracted members and former members from all over the North Island.
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PJ donations near 30,000
A stirring initiative has been helping almost 1500 Kiwis in the King Country sleep snug this winter while its benefits have been felt across the country.
Distributing pyjamas in the region, Central Plateau and Ruapehu regions, Maru Energy Trust’s Kahumoe Kaupapa PJ Project has been proving that a little warmth can go a long way.
“It’s heartbreaking, but the sad reality is that there are some people in our communities – young and old, who go to bed cold,” Maru’s chair, Brian Hanna, said.
“A good night’s sleep is crucial for children to excel at school and for adults to give their best each day. The PJ Project is a way for everyone to give just a little bit.”
Run nationwide by The Kindness Collective charity, the PJ Project has spread the warmth far and wide this winter, delivering almost 30,000 pairs of pyjamas to children in 81 New Zealand towns and cities.
Collection bins – for new pyjamas – have been in place at The Warehouse stores and donations have been made at their checkouts.
The project is run with community partners, including Maru Energy Trust.
Since 2022, Maru’s contribution to the PJ Project has seen a steady increase in the amount of pyjamas donated in the King Country region. In its first year, 497 pairs of pyjamas were donated followed by 900 pairs in 2023 and more than 1000 last year.
Maru co-ordinator Jo Meads said she was over the moon with this year’s tally of almost 1500 pairs.
“It is hard to gauge what the response may be as there are so many worthy organisations doing good in our communities,” she said.
“It was humbling to see pyjamas being gifted, from individuals donating a single pair to dozens of pairs, from local organisations and a number of cash donations that enabled our team to buy more.”
The pyjamas have been distributed by people from organisations including Ōtorohanga Support House, Te Kūiti Community House, Maniapoto Whānau Ora Centre, Waitomo Waipā Women’s Refuge and Manaaki Trust.
“Working with local organisations on distribution was the perfect way to ensure the pyjamas got to the people who need them the most,” said Meads. “At Maru, we are extremely grateful to everyone who supported us to gift a good night’s sleep to whānau. Their kindness has made a real difference.”
Mike Wikotu, who works for Taumarunuibased Manaaki Trust, was delighted when he picked up 287 pairs of pyjamas to distribute to families struggling with the winter cold.
“I’ve been helping Jo Meads for the past few years – it’s a great idea and I love being part of it.”
Manaaki Trust provides accommodation for people recovering from mental illness.
“Kahumoe Kaupapa (Pyjama Project) is an awesome way for everyone to give just a little to families in need,” Wikotu said. “Having a warm pair of kahumoe during
On the beat with Constable Chris Aspin
the colder months helps keep our people warm at night, supports better sleep and contributes to overall hauora (health).”
St John Health Shuttle
Providing transport to medical and health related appointments. Call our local office to find out more: 0800 846 9992 or email wakaora@stjohn.org.nz Hato Hone St John’s purpose:
Our week in review
It’s been a busy and challenging week for our team, with several serious incidents occurring both locally and in surrounding areas.
Last Saturday about 10:20pm a fight occurred at an address on Ormsby Road, Ōtorohanga. A female was struck with a weapon and taken to Waikato Hospital for treatment of her injuries, which are non-life threatening. A 45-year-old was arrested the following day and charged with wounding; he will appear in the Hamilton District Court. Police are satisfied there is no ongoing risk to public safety and thank the community for their assistance with the investigation and swift resolution of this matter.
Our team also attended several vehicles crashes last week one of which was a fatal crash out of area towards Raglan, suspected to have been a result of a medical event.
Re-Elect Allan Goddard
• Ensuring the best outcome for all residents and ratepayers from the transfer of Water functions to Waikato Waters Ltd
Staff executed a search warrant at an address in Ōtorohanga following on from a complaint of an assault being posted online. During the search police located and seized several insecure firearms and some drugs.
We attended a vehicle crash on Main North Road Ōtorohanga where a male had fled from the scene after crashing into a fence. Unfortunately, there was a delay in attendance due to scene guard duties and other incidents taking place within the district.
In the wake of these incidents, I want to express our gratitude to the many volunteer fire service members across Te Kuiti, Ōtorohanga, Benneydale, Piopio and the wider King Country. These men and women are often first on the scene at crashes, fires, and medical emergencies — responding day and night, in all weather, to help those in need. Their commitment and dedication to
the community deserve our recognition and thanks.
We’ve had several reports of vehicles speeding through school zones and quiet neighbourhood streets, around the Te Kuiti area. It’s frustrating to hear this taking place around pick-up and drop-off times. These areas are busy with children and pedestrians. A small lapse in speed or attention could have devastating consequences. We urge members of the public to continue to report antisocial driving behaviour so repeat offenders can be held to account.
Over this winter staff have attended several mental health episodes across the district – It’s a timely reminder to check in on friends, family, and neighbours. If you’re struggling or know someone who is, don’t hesitate to reach out for help (Mental health 0800 505050).
Te Kūiti’s Mosese Tangilanu, 2, in his new pyjamas
Blessing date
The blessing of the Mangaokewa Walkway cultural storyboards, originally planned for late last month, is now scheduled for September 26. The history of the area and Ngāti Rōrā, is depicted on storyboards along the walkway, which is of SH30 near Te Kūiti.
Nominations open
Elevate Ōtorohanga has opened nominations for its people’s choice award. The award recognises business in the district which consistently excel in service.
Delegated authority
Ōtorohanga District Council has delegated chief executive Tanya Winter or acting chief executive Graham Bunn responsibilities, duties, and powers in respect of urgent matters following the October 11 local body election. Elected members cannot act in any capacity from the election date until they have made their statutory declarations at the inaugural council meeting set down for November 4.
Talk to objectors
Organisers of the upcoming Targa NZ 2025 Rally in the Ōtorohanga district have been advised to reach a compromise with four objectors to the October 16 event. The council received the objections after road closures were advertised.
Johnstone remains
Outgoing Otorohanga district
councillor Roy Johnstone will continue to serve on the district’s licencing committee following the election. Johnstone, who is not seeking re-election, serves as deputy chair of the authority. Councillors voted on Tuesday to appoint Johnstone as commissioner of the committee following the election.
Riskpool’s call
Riskpool mutual insurance scheme has made an unbudgeted call of $22,288 on Ōtorohanga District Council to help cover operating costs and legal fees. Councillors heard on Tuesday the council had received unbudgeted calls of $173,929 from Riskpool since 2012. Over 20 years, Riskpool has paid out approximately $178.7 million in claims nationally against $147.5 million in contributions.
‘Bring back our kiwi’
By Chris Gardner
Ōtorohanga District Council chief executive Tanya Winter and mayor Max Baxter were asked to explain this week how the council’s kiwi logo was replaced without public consultation.
Nearly 400 ratepayers and residents of the district have signed a petition presented to council on Tuesday demanding an explanation.
Councillors resolved to adopt Te Ōhanga/The Nest as the sole logo for the organisation on December 10 at the recommendation of communication and engagement manager Helen Williams.
“Staff have considered the Significance and Engagement Policy and have assessed that the recommendation in this report has a low level of significance,” Williams’ report said at the time.
“Given the low level of significance determined, we will use the engagement level ‘inform’ should the logo change.”
The majority of councillors agreed to the change, although councillors Roy Johnstone, Rodney Dow and Kit Jeffries voted against it.
Johnstone was concerned that dropping the kiwi logo would do a disservice to Otorohanga Kiwi House which had put the town on the map.
Ōtorohanga’s Ian Clark shared petitioners’ views on the change of
logo with the council on Tuesday.
Clark told The News, ahead of the meeting, that Ōtorohanga had been branded as the Kiwiana capital of New Zealand.
“Council should be supporting that,” he said. “It’s the whole identity of the town. So many people put so much effort into it. Marketing consultant David Walmsley’s advice was to push the Kiwiana image “as much as we possibly can.”
Clark told the council it had completely misjudged the sentiments of local people with the new logo and asked that the council reverse the decision, and work towards putting the kiwi back where it belongs.
“You may say, it is only a council logo, not a town logo, but surely the council should be leading the town theme, not abandoning it?”
“I have clothing here from sports clubs proudly showing a kiwi. When these sports people go away to play at other clubs, they are easily recognisable as coming from Ōtorohanga. “
Clark was backed by retired Waitomo News publisher Frances
Rawlings.
“We want the nest icon to disappear from the face of Ōtorohanga district,” Rawlings said.
“It will take time for the nest to disappear, because money has been spent.”
Rawlings said the decision had caused consternation in all sectors of the Ōtorohanga community as the decision had been made without consultation.
“From one end of the town to the other there are Kiwi icons as this is the Kiwi town of New Zealand,” she said.
“For the council to remove that logo is beyond belief.”
Former Ōtorohanga mayor Eric Tait, who lives out of town but owns commercial and rural property in the district, is among the signatories.
“We have been known as the Kiwi capital of New Zealand – the Governor General acknowledged it,” he said.
“Why are we now changing it? You don’t see Coca-Cola changing its brand because it has a new board of directors.”
New Zealand Taxpayers Union investigations co-ordinator Rhys Hurley said: “Ratepayers coming together to oppose the logo change shows the community never wanted it in the first place. Ōtorohanga District Council needs to start listening to the community before it makes more expensive vanity projects like another costly redesign.”
Tangi for candidate
By Mary Anne Gill
Waikato Regional Council Ngā Hau E Whā constituency candidate Maxine Moana-Tuwhangai has died and her tangi was held at Kāwhia’s Mōkai Kāinga Marae last week. She was taken to Kaipāpaka urupā to lay with her whānau.
Moana-Tuwhangai was a certified environmental commissioner, fellow of Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand, a chartered member of the Institute of Directors and a volunteer on the Justices of the Peace community health desk in Ngāruawāhia. She was a Priory board member for Hato Hone St John, Raukura Hauora O Tainui and the Ruapuha Uekaha Hapu Trust – the original owners of the Waitomo Glow Worm Caves.
She was honoured by Queen Elizabeth II in 2018 with a New Zealand Order of Merit for her services to governance and Māori. Moana-Tuwhangai was one of two candidates in the seat. Sitting member Tipa Mahuta now retains her seat.
Maxine Moana-Tuwhangai
Ōtorohanga’s Ian Clark, left, spoke against the council’s new nest logo at Tuesday’s council meeting. He is pictured, from left, with fellow petitioners Frances Rawlings, Brian Pitts-Brown, Andrew Ormsby and friend.
Photo: Chris Gardner.
The kiwi inspired logo has been pushed out of the nest by Te Ōhanga.
Amio
AUGUST 2025 ISSUE
KEEPING OUR DISTRICT MOVING AFTER RECENT WEATHER
WHAT’S ON AT THE LIBRARY?
DEFENSIVE
DRIVING COURSE A SUCCESS FOR THE COLLEGE
The Defensive Driving Programme at the College has wrapped up with a fantastic milestone, all 20 students who enrolled completed the full programme with 100% attendance – an outstanding achievement.
When the rain didn’t stop, neither did our Council roading team and contractors. Over the past two months, they have been working tirelessly to keep our district connected following a run of heavy rain and stormy weather.
NIWA’s 30-day rainfall figures for June/July show our area recorded more than 300mm of rainfall, triggering multiple slope failures and storm-related damage across the network. Around 12 large over-slips were recorded over just two days.
Persistent heavy rain over the following weeks also made cleanup challenging. In some cases, crews were called back multiple times as fresh slips occurred. In total, dozens of slips have been cleared, along with urgent safety work to stabilise banks, remove hazards and improve drainage in vulnerable areas.
Our teams and contractors have been quick to respond, often working long hours and in tough conditions. This work isn’t just about cleaning up damage; it’s also about protecting our network from further deterioration and keeping our communities connected.
Thank you for your patience and understanding while this essential work has been carried out, which helps to keep our crews safe while they work.
THE POETS BILLBOARD IS LIVE!
The Poets Billboard is a heartwarming community initiative dreamed up and delivered by Nicky Deeley, ŌDC Manager of Community Development and Wellbeing. With the generous support of a local billboard owner, we’ve transformed an unused signboard on Maniapoto Street into a beautiful public stage for words and poems, written by local voices and printed big and bold for all to see.
A billboard… for poetry? Yes, and it’s already stopping people in their tracks.
We’re honoured to launch this project with a poet whose words carry decades of wisdom and gentle insight, Sylvia Beveridge, with her poem ‘Walk Soft’.
Sylvia is a published poet, a lifelong writer and a muchloved member of the Ōtorohanga community. Now 94 and living at Beattie Home, Sylvia continues to write with grace, clarity, and compassion, finding inspiration in the stillness, beauty and fragility of life.
Read more about Sylvia and her poem here: www.otodc.govt.nz/latest-news/article/486/the-poetsbillboard
Over the four sessions, students built their knowledge, confidence and skills to help them become safer drivers on the road. The group has been fully engaged, making the most of the opportunity to build safe driving habits and grow their confidence behind the wheel.
The programme is a valuable stepping stone for these young drivers.
Project Navigator - Elle Freestone of Ōtorohanga Employment Hub captured photos of the students in action, demonstrating the energy and focus of the programme.
INTRODUCING…. OH! GALLERY AT Ō CAFÉ
We’re excited to share a brandnew initiative OH! Gallery, a creative pop-up art space that celebrates local talent in everyday places!
Our first OH! Gallery is now open and proudly hosted at Ō Café, in Ōtorohanga, transforming a corner of the café into a mini gallery for quality, engaging and interesting works by local artists.
Kicking things off is the incredibly talented Kiana Ormsby, whose work is now on display for all to enjoy while grabbing your morning coffee or lunch with friends.
Pop in, take a look, and support our amazing local creatives. If you wish to share your creativity with the community, get in touch today!
UPCOMING COUNCIL MEETINGS
Ōtorohanga Community Board Monday 1 September 4:00 pm
Kāwhia
FROM PAGE-TURNERS TO PRIZES: ŌTOROHANGA DISTRICT LIBRARIES LAUNCH TEEN READING CHALLENGES
Two new reading programmes have launched for rangatahi aged 12–18 years-old, promising rewards for something many teens already love doing: reading. Check out what you can do at the library today!
Check out what you can do at the library today!
PREFER NOT TO COME OUT IN THE RAIN?
Check out our website for the delivery services we offer.
• Housebound Services
• Rural Delivery Service
KATE IS COMING TO TOWN!
In conjunction with the Storylines Trust, our Ōtorohanga Library is excited to host acclaimed New Zealand author Kate De Goldi on Tuesday 2 September from 1:30 to 2:30 pm. Known for her dedication to promoting literacy and storytelling, Kate will share her insights as Te Awhi Rito New Zealand Reading Ambassador.
Her talk will focus on the critical importance of story and language in fostering a love of reading among children, highlighting how these elements contribute to their development and creativity. This event offers a unique opportunity for parents, educators, and community members to gain valuable perspectives on encouraging reading for pleasure.
With this waste workshop series, our recycling and sustainability experts will help you reduce your waste, help make clothes last longer, save items from landfill and offer opportunities to learn new skills.
100% funded by the National Waste Levy, no ratepayer money is used for these events
UPCOMING EVENTS INCLUDE:
Sip & Sew Workshops
Date: Sunday 14 September
Ōtorohanga Library, 9:30 am - 11:30 am
Kāwhia Community Hall, 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
ReCreators Workshops
Date: Saturday 11 October
Ōtorohanga Guide Hall, 9:00 am – 12:00 pm
Kāwhia Community Centre, 2:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Cloth Nappies, Parenting and more online course
Full access to this online course – learn at your pace. PLUS, receive a cloth nappy starter pack worth $60, delivered to your door once you finish the course!
Waitomo welcomes new citizens
By Jon Rawlinson
Some of New Zealand’s newest citizens officially joined the Waitomo community at a ceremony last week.
Among them was Oliver Turk, who began his road to becoming a Kiwi aged 19.
“Technically, I was on a gap year to gain some work experience, but I liked it so much that I just ended up staying,” he said.
Almost 20 years on, Turk is at least as at home in New Zealand as in his native Germany.
After moving from a small village near Dortmund, he lived and worked in the both Waikato and King Country before settling with his partner, Stacey Brew, on the outskirts of Te Kūiti.
“We bought a property and moved to Te Kūiti nine years ago,” he said. “I’m a machinery operator now, driving tractors for John Clark Contracting in Kio Kio. Before that, I was a dairy farmer and then did a stint of dry stock farming with Crusader Meats.”
As he was already a permanent resident, Turk’s final steps towards full citizenship were relatively stress-free.
“The pre-steps for
immigration visas and to become a permanent resident are the hardest bits.
“For me, getting citizenship was straightforward because I’ve been living here long enough that I already met the criteria.”
Although now, officially, recognised as a New Zealander, he said he doesn’t feel too much different.
“The sun still went up in the morning after I received my citizenship but I still haven’t lost my accent,” he said. “The main thing for me is being able to get a New Zealand passport, so fewer delays at the airport trying to get back home after going overseas.”
Voting may be a reason that some immigrants apply for citizenship, but that was a right Turk already had.
“I was able to vote before –you can do so as a permanent resident, but now I can stand for local council, if I want,” he said. “It’s nice to know that I can try to get the mayoral chains one day but, no, I have no plans to go that far.”
A fellow Kiwi who has gone that far is Waitomo mayor, John Robertson.
In addition to Turk, Robertson presented certificates to nine other new citizens: Abigail and James Redmond, Paulo and Ryan
Baumgratz, Cleide Zanatto, Triyoga Dharmautami, Satish Kumar, Nathalie Smit and Kiran Vavega Lifa.
They hail from Brazil, Indonesia, India, the United Kingdom, France, Germany and Samoa.
The ceremony, at the Waitomo District Council chambers last week was a celebration of diversity, Robertson said.
“Citizenship ceremonies are special occasions to share with friends and family and it’s always a great pleasure to be able to celebrate with our
new citizens.
“These individuals join the many people from all parts of the world who have lived in and contributed to our district and chosen to make this place home.”
Varied skills, cultures and perspectives enrich our community, Robertson said.
“They bring with them the gift of language and culture, each carrying unique ways of seeing and expressing the world. This adds to the depth and richness of how we communicate and understand each other.”
•
We’ve got population growth, more homes built, and school rolls increasing.
But there are also challenges ahead for our Council.
Public drinking and wastewater plants, pipes and services will soon transfer to a regional entity. This will trigger a need to reconfigure the Council organisation and its overhead costs.
And land must be made available in Te Kuiti to enable industry expansion. This requires leadership at Council that understands risk, property development, and sound business practice.
You know my record: I get things done.
You know my style: approachable and engaging. You know my vision: a great District to live in. I would appreciate your vote. Let’s continue our journey together.
New citizen, Oliver Turk, with partner, Stacey Brew
Meet Waitomo’s newest NZ citizens.
Plant plan
still in limbo
By Chris Gardner
An application for a waste to energy plant in Te Awamutu remains suspended, nearly two weeks after the applicant promised to settle its unpaid costs.
The Environmental Protection Authority suspended Global Contracting Solutions application on August 13 because it had not paid the authority undisclosed costs, just weeks before the Hamilton company was due to hear an independent board of inquiry ruling whether the Racecourse Road plan could go ahead.
Project manager Adam Fletcher told The News two weeks ago that the company intended to settle its bill with the EPA.
The company is applying to build and operate the Paewira energy from waste plant at 401 Racecourse Road and has met widespread opposition from the community.
The company also owes Waipā District Council $40,665 and Waikato Regional Council a further $63,297.
The Waikato Regional Council bill covers staff processing the application through various phases of the statutory process between April 2023 and April 2024, publicly notifying the application with Waipa District Council and the summarising submissions before the application was called in.
The company filed its objection to paying resource consent costs on November 29, the day after The News reported Waipā District Council was drafting a submission against the application.
Global Contracting Solutions objected to paying $52,854 of the almost $101,811 fee charged by Waipā.
Global Contracting Solutions managing director Craig Tuhoro declined to comment this week.
Heavy freight access granted
By Chris Gardner
Heavy freight vehicles now have access to five roads in Ōtorohanga district.
Council roading manager Paul Strange sought councillors’ approval for High Productivity Motor Vehicle (HPMV) access to Huiputea Drive, Progress Drive, part of Ōtewā Rd, Old Te Kuiti Road, and Turongo Street at Tuesday’s council meeting.
“In New Zealand, roads are not approved for High Productivity Motor
Vehicles (HPMVs) by default and require explicit permission from the relevant local authority,” Strange said in his report.
HPMV refers to trucks that can carry more weight or be longer than standard vehicles by exceeding the 44-tonne limit under a specific route-based permit.
“Staff are recommending allowing HPMV access on selected routes where there is a clear benefit to the Ōtorohanga district or local industry,” Strange said.
“Staff also recommend that future network improvements consider
expanding the roading network where feasible, to accommodate additional heavy freight routes.
This should be integrated into future asset management planning to ensure strategic alignment and long-term efficiency.”
The council also endorsed the prioritisation of bridge upgrades and targeted pavement improvements within future asset management planning, where feasible to extend the 50MAX - also longer trucks - and HPMV networks.
Rewarewa school on the move
By Chris Gardner
Rewarewa Schoolhouse, pictured, is a step closer to being moved to Ōtorohanga Museum where there are plans to turn it into a creative hub.
The district council agreed to a request from Ōtorohanga Historical Society on Tuesday to fund the cost of removing a golden elm on the museum’s proposed Kakamutu Road relocation site from the council’s parks and reserves budget.
The Lions Club of Ōtorohanga will collect the firewood for distribution.
Councillor Katrina Christison’s resolution required the society, which operates the
museum, to undertake a pre resource consent application process with the council’s planning team to identify any issues and streamline the relocation process.
The council offered the century old wooden building to the society earlier in the year.
A fundraising campaign is underway to pay for the relocation from Rewarewa School Reserve about 20 minutes’ drive from the township.
Museum manager Liz Cowan told The News she was grateful for the council’s consideration.
“There’s still work to be done, and we look forward to progressing this project,” Cowan said.
Rewarewa Schoolhouse
Soil isn’t just dirt — it’s the living, breathing soul of your garden. It holds water, stores nutrients, supports roots, and quietly powers everything you grow. Care for your soil, and your garden will thrive with flavour, colour, and life. You don’t need perfect soil — but it helps to understand what you’ve got.
Know Your Soil
Grab a handful and have a feel:
• Sandy soils drain fast, ideal for plants like lavender, Chionochloa flavicans thyme, Muehlenbeckia and salvia.
• Clay soils hold water and nutrients but often need improving.
• Silty soils are smooth and fertile — great for hostas, flaxes, Don’t work with wet clay — it compacts easily. Add compost, aged bark, or sheep pellets to improve structure and drainage. Raised beds or mounding also help. What Makes “Perfect” Soil?
Gardeners dream of loam — a mix of sand, silt, and clay. It feels crumbly, holds moisture without staying soggy, and is full of life. Earthworms, fungi, and microbes turn organic matter into slow-release nutrients. The ideal pH is slightly acidic to neutral (around 6–7), which suits most plants.
You can build better soil over time — add compost, mulch with organic matter, and protect it from compaction.
Feed the Soul
Regularly top up with compost — autumn and spring are ideal. Lay cardboard or newspaper (remove any tape) before mulching. This smothers weeds, holds moisture, and breaks down into rich humus, feeding the soil as it goes.
Soil won’t get the spotlight, but it’s where healthy gardens begin. Whether you’re planting natives, perennials, or veges, the first step is always below the surface. Love your soil — and it will give back, season after season.
By Janine Krippner
As we move through our days, much of our experience comes from different forms of energy, carried by waves. We detect light with our eyes, temperature with our skin, and sound with our ears. Sound is simply vibration that travels through air, water, or objects as an acoustic wave, or at least the portion that we can hear.
Listening gives us a rich tapestry of information about our surroundings. Do we hear another person? Animals? Traffic? Music? As someone who has music playing almost constantly, this is something I especially appreciate.
As a volcanologist, I also appreciate sound waves in a very different way. When volcanoes erupt they produce a wide range of noises, including some that our ears cannot detect.
Acoustic waves below human hearing are called infrasound, defined as low-frequency waves under 20 hertz (Hz). Humans generally hear in the 20–20,000 Hz range, so infrasound is literally below our perception. These waves are tiny fluctuations in atmospheric pressure that can travel great distances from their source and be recorded by instruments.
Infrasound monitoring is similar in concept to seismic monitoring. Seismometers measure energy waves moving through the ground, while infrasound sensors detect waves moving through the air. Just as a network of seismometers across a broad area can be used to locate an earthquake, an array of infrasound sensors can pinpoint where an explosion or eruption has occurred.
This technology is not limited to volcanoes. The Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization operates a global infrasound network to monitor for nuclear weapons testing. The same system also detects large volcanic eruptions, meteor airbursts, and other processes in our atmosphere. One striking example was
the January 2022 eruption of Hunga Tonga–Hunga Ha’apai, one of the most powerful explosions in recent times. Some of its pressure waves circled the globe multiple times.
A challenge is that many things produce infrasound, from storms to ocean waves. Geophysicists carefully filter out this background “noise” to extract useful information about volcanic processes. Some have even described volcanoes as musical instruments.
There is even an interesting area of research where infrasound is used to study the sounds that animals, such as elephants, make. Unlike our voices, which fade away quickly, these low-frequency sounds can travel across many kilometres, making them a powerful tool for communication.
Herein lies one of the greatest advantages of infrasound monitoring - its ability to detect activity at great distances.
Remote volcanoes, such as those in Alaska’s Aleutian Islands, may be thousands of kilometres from population centres but still pose a hazard to aircraft. Infrasound data can confirm eruptions and help classify whether they are producing ash plumes that may be a danger to aircraft.
Whether erupting or quiet, using a range of monitoring techniques including seismology, gas measurements, ground deformation, and satellites, can help us to get a clearer image of what is happening at and below volcanoes. Infrasound is one more way of “listening” to the Earth, adding to our understanding of the complex processes at work. The more perspectives we use, the better prepared we are to warn those who might be impacted.
These rates are not high
By Peter Nicholl
As expected, the reserve bank cut their Official Cash Rate by 25 basis points to three per cent last week.
This decision was reasonable. Both the Bank of England the the Reserve Bank of Australia had reduced their official interest rates by 25 points just a few days earlier.
What worries me is what was said in the bank’s accompanying statement. Their statement was described as ‘more dovish than expected’ with a strong indication that the bank was likely to make two more 25 basis points cuts before the end of the year, taking the Official Cash Rate to 2.5 per cent.
Though some other central banks are also reducing their official interest rates, the Bank of England’s official rate is currently four per cent and the Reserve Bank of Australia is at 3.6 per cent. The Unitied States Federal Bank has kept its official rate at 4.25-4.5 per cent all year despite pressure from Trump to lower it. So New Zealand, at three per cent is already significantly lower than most other countries.
The first time the reserve bank took the cash rate as low as 2.5 per cent was in response to the global financial crisis in 2009. Unfortunately, it did not increase the rate after the global financial crisis was over. It mainly stayed within the range 1.75-2.25 per cent from 2012-2020 - and then Covid came along. In response, the bank reduced the rate into uncharted low territory, taking the official cash rate down to 0.25 per cent.
The inevitable happened. The incredibly low interest rates quickly led to a surge in asset prices.
The value of the average house in New Zealand rose by around 40 per cent from 2020 to 2022. The low interest rates also led (more slowly) to a general increase in inflation, not
just in New Zealand but everywhere.
The reserve bank eventually had to put the cash rate into reverse and raised it from 0.25 per cent in 2022 to 5.5 per cent in 2023.
Over the past year, it has reversed the direction of the rate again and they have reduced it by 2.5 per cent and it is now down to theee per cent. With inflation currently at 2.7 per cent, this level is barely positive in real terms. Mortgage rates, other borrowing rates and deposit rates have all followed the cash rate down. Despite this, the media keep referring to current interest rates as ‘high’.
They are only high in relation to the incredibly low interest rates that the Covid pandemic induced. Those rates were very abnormal. They were induced by a pandemic of unpredictable dimensions. But they are being treated by many New Zealanders as the new ‘normal’ – the level interest rates should return to. That would be a disaster. I worry that there may be some in our reserve bank who are also thinking this way.
The period 2000 – 2010 is a more ‘normal’ period. During that period inflation was almost always within the RBNZ’s target range of 1-3% and the OCR was was within the range of 4.5% to 6%. The current OCR level of 3% is already well below where it was during that decade of moderate inflation.
What the RBNZ has done in the last nine months is appropriate. But if they keep pushing the OCR down another cycle of low interest rates causing asset price surges and rising general inflation is inevitable. The RBNZ needs to know when it has done enough and wait for the impact of what it has already done to work its way through the financial system.
Letters…
Have your say
With the local body elections around the corner it is time to get out and vote. Get enrolled and vote people. Over the last few elections turnout has been dismal. The time is now to change that. The voting age in New Zealand is 18 and everyone who can vote should. If young people care about their future they need to step up and vote for the best candidate and not just leave it to us older people who have not done a real great job of things over the last 50 years. New Zealand needs to move forward not back to the 1900s.
I would like to remind renters that they too are entitled to vote for council too. They may not own the property they live in but by paying rent they are paying the rates on that property so step up and have some input into how you want Waitomo to be in the future. With the current government moving closer to undermining local councils and the good work they do this may well be your last chance to have a say before local council become merely a symbolic entity with little power and less say.
Gordon Walker Piopio
Support acknowledged
I want to express my deepest thanks to the King Country community for all it have given to Daffodil Day, with particular thanks to our local volunteers and area coordinators.
While it may be our biggest fundraising event of the year, Daffodil Day carries special meaning and to many of us it is about connection, compassion, and hope.
The daffodil continues to stand as a figurehead for the 1 in 3 New Zealanders who will face a cancer diagnosis. When
we come together each August, we are reminding those on the journey that they are seen, supported, and surrounded by a community determined to make a difference. It was truly an honour to witness so much of our region painted yellow.
Over the past year, we have accommodated 2,696 guests at the Cancer Society’s Lions Lodge, contributed $252,583 to cancer research, driven 104,657km taking our clients to their cancer treatment and provided 19,289 direct client services
These figures reflect the scale of the need - and the importance of your role in helping us meet it. As cancer rates rise, our resolve to be here for every person who hears “you have cancer” only grows stronger.
I extend my heartfelt thanks to every donor, volunteer, business, school, community group and staff member who contributed to Daffodil Day this year. Together, we are not just tackling cancer. We are building a future where no one faces cancer alone, and where hope grows stronger with every year.
I hope we’ll see you again for Daffodil Day 2026.
Helen Carter
Chief Executive, Cancer Society Waikato/ Bay of Plenty
Letters to the Editor
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• They should be opinion based on facts or current events
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• Letters may be edited, abridged, or rejected at the editor’s discretion
• The editor’s decision on publication is final.
on for wool drives Piopio doyen
School’s rugby giant-killers
By Jon Rawlinson
Piopio College has been savouring an epic victory in the recent Under-16 Waikato Secondary Schools Rugby final.
“We lost to Hamilton Boys’ High School in the last game of the round-robin,” the college’s rugby coach, Franky Bourke, told The News. “But our guys all really showed up when we played them again the following week in the final. They had faith in themselves and played some really good rugby.”
Piopio won the final 39–25 to claim the John Boe Cup.
Strictly speaking, Bourke’s boys aren’t regarded as the school’s first XV, but they may as well be.
“We have just one rugby team here, this is it,” Bourke said.
“We only had 17 players fit and available to play in the final, which meant we only had two reserves on the bench, but we still won.”
What’s more, as the college has approximately 150 students, some of the players in Piopio’s under 16s are as young as 13.
By contrast, Hamilton Boys High has a roll of more than 2000 students and has been dominant across the rugby grades.
“Last year, the under-16s was won by Hamilton’s St Paul’s Collegiate School but Hamilton Boys’ had been on a real hot streak before that – they’d won it for four or five years in a row,” Bourke said.
Boys High, the grade’s number one ranked team, went into the final off the back of a 22–20 win over Piopio the week prior.
However, the King Country squad promptly took the last game of the season by the scruff of the neck.
“We shot out to a decent lead early on; we scored two tries in quick succession, one straight after the kick-off. Then, still only about 15 minutes in, we were awarded a penalty.”
Piopio’s regular kicker, Keanu Edkins, came into the match after a tough day at the office the week before – he had missed all five of his attempts at goal.
Fortunately, the plucky secondfive was able to shake off his demons and step back up to the mark when it really counted.
“All week leading up to the final, Keanu said he didn’t want to kick.
I told him we had flushed the last game away, but that it was up to him to decide when he was ready,”
Bourke said. “So, although he didn’t take the first couple of kicks,
when that penalty was called, he took the shot and nailed it. He only missed one from five in total.”
Although there was still plenty of time for Piopio’s opponents to make up lost ground, the Hamilton team looked as though they weren’t used to playing catch-up rugby, Bourke said.
“They played in the style that got them to the final – kicking into the corners, winning lineouts and driving the ball in – and they scored five tries from that too. But we kept the scoreboard ticking over; we kept up the pressure and held our lead right up until the final whistle.”
While all 17 of Piopio’s under16s contributed to the victory, the team’s fullback was on particularly hot form.
“Corey Mason was another standout. He really caused the opposition plenty of grief.
Practically every time he came into the line, every time he touched the ball, he was really hard for them to contain.”
Other top performers throughout the season included team captain and number eight, Hunter Rogers.
“Hunter had a great season. He led from the front, alongside his twin brother, Quinn Rogers (flanker),” Bourke said. “And, although Aden Bradcock, our halfback, came in probably halfway through the season, he gave us a lot of go-forward ball from then on.”
Jayden Collins Kohe-Love (centre) and Ryshard Tapara (prop), both of whom are now playing representative rugby for King Country, were also noted by Bourke for their contributions.
His surname is well known in the Waipā region – Bourkes have been involved with the
Hautapu Rugby Club for more than a century – but this is just a coincidence. While Franky Bourke is great mates with some of his namesakes, he is not related to the famous Cambridge family.
Originally from Takanini, Auckland, Bourke had previous successes coaching rugby in Hamilton before becoming a teacher and coach at Piopio College.
“I was coaching up at Hamilton Girls High School and we had some success with the first XV there. I’m now in my second year at Piopio College and it has been a challenge coming to a small rural school,” he said.
“I’ve really had to keep the boys engaged with an exciting type of rugby for them to play. They have come a long way and worked very hard, so they really do deserve to celebrate.”
Piopio College’s under 16s squad. Coach, Franky Bourke is pictured far right) and team captain Hunter Rogers is holding the John Boe Cup
Trio take on the best
By Jesse Wood
Tate Burdon and former King Country rugby representative Paul Luttrell represented New Zealand at the BMX Racing World Championships in Copenhagen.
About 3500 riders competed across the July challenge, masters and championship divisions.
It was 11-year-old Burdon’s second world championships after competing in Rockhill, United States, last year.
The Year 7 Korakonui School student placed 16th overall out of 139 riders in the 11-year-old boys 20-inch class, making the semifinals.
This was about a week after finishing fourth in round nine and third in round 10 of the European Cup in Angelholm, Sweden.
“It was massive, it really stretched him as a rider to set up for worlds. He adopted a more assertive riding style. The Europeans will push you around without a second thought as Tate found out in the European Cup,” mum Anne Burdon said.
The 2025-26 season will be another big year for Tate as he prepares for the world champs in Brisbane in July.
The Mighty 11 trials for the New Zealand stage are on September 28 before the North Island Titles on Labour Weekend in Auckland.
Tate will also have a few trips to Australia in 2026 including the Oceania Champs in February, followed by the Te Awamutuhosted BMX Nationals in March.
Luttrell was no stranger to Copenhagen, having raced there at the 2011 world championships.
“We also lived in Copenhagen from 2017-2022, so it will be a homecoming of sorts. This will be my 11th and final world
champs,” Luttrell said before the event. He rode in the 50 plus cruiser male category, competing against 99 other riders.
“After riding well and comfortably making the top 16, a small mistake in the semifinal saw my chances of making the final dashed,” Luttrell said.
“With the races lasting less than 40 seconds, split second reactions and decisions make all the difference.
Luttrell said the facilities at Te Awamutu BMX club were a fantastic advantage for their preparations and the club’s support was highly appreciated.
In the under-23 women’s class, Penny was pipped by just 0.06s in the quarterfinals.
She also fractured her scaphoid in a race at the start of the trip,” Penny said.
“I did manage to get back on my bike and race at the world champs, however I wasn’t back to 100 per cent.”
Te Awamutu BMX Club president Rodney Prescott said the results proved Te Awamutu can foot it with the world’s best.
Farm owners, workers fined
By Chris Gardner
A Taranaki farm owner of a Waipā farm and its contract milkers have been fined a total of $27,000 for failing to ensure 230 cattle had sufficient food. The charges dated back to 2022.
JKD Farms Ltd, whose director and sole shareholder is James Dodunski of Opunake in Taranaki, and contract milkers Manu Opangai Sevaki and Phyllis Ada Sevaki were sentenced in the Te Awamutu District Court on August 20 after pleading guilty to the charge brought by the Ministry for Primary Industries.
The Sevakis worked on the farm on Whatauri Road, Wharepapa South during the 2022-23 dairy season as contract milkers. Manu did the physical work while Phyllis managed the administrative part of their work.
“JKD Farms Limited owned and was in charge of the 230 animals. It failed to ensure there was sufficient feed available to their animals,” said MPI regional manager of animal welfare and NAIT compliance Brendon Mikkelsen.
“Manu and Phyllis Sevaki were responsible for the day-to-day wellbeing of these animals, and also failed to take care of them, with many
underweight and emaciated.”
In July 2022 they contacted a veterinarian clinic eight times to see to their cattle.
Testing found some cattle were suffering from milk fever and a plan was provided detailing how to manage the issue with magnesium supplements, which are widely used on dairy farms.
The veterinarian also recommended three cows be euthanised to end their suffering from milk fever. An assessment of all animals was carried out by MPI animal welfare inspectors, along with a veterinarian and a further 12 dead cattle were discovered. It was likely they died from milk fever and calving problems.
The Dairy NZ website says milk fever is a metabolic
disorder in dairy cows caused by insufficient calcium.
“Both contract milkers were experienced farmers, and we would have expected them to have been aware of the issue with milk fever and deal with it. They did not take adequate measures to look after their animals despite having expert advice from a vet.
“Likewise, JKD Farms Limited should have had better systems in place to ensure it was aware of the growing animal welfare problems at the farm, so they could be promptly addressed,” Mikkelsen said. JKD Farms Limited was fined $13,000.
Employee Manu Sevaki was fined $8000 and Phyllis Sevaki, also known as Amy Te Moni, was fined $6000.
The Lines Company (TLC) awards scholarships to three local students each year who are attending tertiary education, providing recognition and financial support
Paull Luttrell was no stranger to Copenhagen, having previously lived there. Photo: Tony Nelson
A guilty plea was entered for failing to take proper care of 230 cows –including this one - on a Wharepapa South farm. Photo: Ministry for Primary Industries.
Eti does the heavy lifting
By Jesse Wood
To say hard work led 19-year-old heavy machinery operator Dylan Eti to his Waikato provincial rugby début would be an understatement.
Dylan lives in Hamilton and works for Cambridge-based C & R Developments at the Graymont Oparure Quarry near Te Kūiti. The Ōtorohanga-raised Hautapu lock started in the number five jersey at FMG Stadium on August 17, and played 80 minutes in the 27-26 win over Counties Manukau.
His family and friends were there to witness him don the red, yellow and black kit.
And last Saturday he was among the try scorers as Waikato – for the third time in 13 years – lifted the Ranfurly Shield from neighbours Taranaki.
Becoming the 1268th Mooloo man meant more than words could express to the youngster.
He spoke to Good Local Media after his debut game.
“It meant a lot to see a bit of reward for all the hard work over the past few years. It was so good to get out and make my family proud,” Eti said. “The skill set was much higher than club rugby, at a rapid pace and the physicality was also a massive lift.”
Eti moved to St Peter’s in Cambridge for his final two years of secondary schooling after attending Ōtorohanga College.
While boarding in Cambridge, dad Kiso “Tee” Eti would take annual leave to pick him up for NPC training in Hamilton, then back to school before returning to Ōtorohanga.
After graduating, it made sense for him to continue playing club rugby with his friends in Cambridge.
Playing alongside clubmates – Hamilton Burr, Rui Farrant, Mitch Jacobson and Andrew Smith – helped the transition to NPC rugby.
“Those boys were very helpful in the lead up, it made it a lot easier to get stuck into it and back myself,” Dylan said.
Another familiar face was fellow Ōtorohanga product Taipari Quinn.
“It was really cool because we’re both from humble beginnings and have known each other from a very young age.”
Hautapu head coach Jackson Willison, also from Ōtorohanga, was “stoked” to see Eti’s progression.
Willison coached him at New Zealand Māori under-18, Waikato under-18, Chiefs under-20 and Hautapu.
He said Eti was probably their best player in the club rugby final against Hamilton Marist last month.
“He’s got a massive future in rugby,” Willison said. “It’s a big testament to his
family. The support I see them give him has been unbelievable. They’re at every game of club rugby that he’s playing.”
Mum Janna Gray said it’s heartwarming to know the hard work is paying off.
“It hasn’t been an easy ride. So much goes on behind the scenes. He holds down a fulltime job, trains and also goes to the gym at 4am so he can get to work at 7am,” Janna said.
“In his first year out of school. Dylan was leaving home at 3am to drive to FMG Stadium to go to the gym, driving to the quarry for work, then driving to Cambridge for training before coming home.
“I’d be asleep when he left and I’d be asleep when he came home. He did that for six months before he moved to Hamilton.
“His dedication to his work is pretty special, like his rugby career, he really puts in the hard yards. He’s had that support to be able to do both too. His boss lets him and he doesn’t take that for granted.”
Dylan’s parents can see the connection he has with Waikato head coach and former All Blacks lock Ross “Flossy” Filipo.
“We love that Flossy has taken him under his wing. He’s got a lot of time for him,” Janna said.
Before his Waikato debut, Janna texted Dylan saying simply “enjoy your game son”.
“We’re so stoked for him. It was so humbling to see him go out there, go well and play his own game.”
King Country’s on track
By Norris Woodbine
After a spluttering start to their defence of the Lochore Cup the King Country Rams burst back into contention with an emphatic seven try winning performance against a committed Poverty Bay side at Taupo last Saturday.
With their forwards laying a great platform the young stars in the back line were given every opportunity to express their boundless talent and the result was some great running rugby.
There were few better on the paddock than Patrick Hedley with a personal tally of 22 points playing on the left wing, scoring two tries and nailing all but one conversion with his accurate boot.
This rising star is on loan from Hawke’s Bay and King Country supporters will be hoping that side suffers no injuries which require him to be called back.
Playing on the opposite wing Baven Brown Jnr was another who shone with one huge run back from a kick off gathered deep in his own half splitting the Bay defence leading to Hedley’s second try.
And it was Brown who scored the final try with his trademark side stepping ability and genuine pace leaving many defenders in his wake as he raced away down the embankment side.
Number eight Caleb Foote was another local player to the fore with his general play and strong carries complimenting a tidy lineout display while his loose forward partners Maximus Dunstar and Levison Gower were never far from the ball.
Piopio’s Isaac Griffin was injected into the pack at lock after the half time break and impressed with some huge carries of the ball and is proving to be a great addition to the
squad.
As impressive as the Rams were on attack the coaches will probably be dissecting some defensive lapses especially early in the game as the visitors went toe to toe early on and half way through the first half the scores were locked at 21 a piece.
Earlier in the day the King Country Emerging Big Horns found the Waikato Divisional side a difficult proposition eventually losing by 46–19 on a difficult afternoon.
The side was bolstered somewhat with the inclusion of Rico Bell and Callum Hedley from the Rams but in the end a dominant forward pack proved too hard to overcome.
Young Kees Muller caught the eye with some great line out work complimenting his general play although playing at lock would have seen him in unfamiliar territory.
Liam Knight and Jayden
Pari also enjoyed honest performances and continue to develop in a higher grade. In other results the King Country Under 18 side defeated a Hawke’ Bay schools team 5512 where by all accounts young Wiremu Harris was outstanding at hooker and Riddick Rangitonga also caught the eye. The King Country secondary school girls were too powerful for Taranaki U18 girls, winning 32– 5 while the U16 boys lost to Waikato Pasifika 46–23.
Dylan Eti, surrounded by friends and family after his Waikato NPC début.
Kees Muller impressed for the King Country Emerging Big Horns.
Daffodil Day
Daffodil Day
Across 1. Sceptic (5) 4. Indifference (6) 7. Fled (3) 8. Mystery (6)
9. Supply with oxygen (6) 10. Barely (8)
12. Water jug (4) 13. Japanese hostess (6) 15. Edits (6)
Last week
16. Agitate (4) 17. Ability (8) 19. Glum (6) 20. Comrades (6)
Demented (3)
Amiss (6)
Gives off (5)
Diligent (13)
Pester (3)
Fad (5) 4. Examine (7) 5. Pact (9) 6. Tendency to be impetuous (3-10)
Store of water (9)
Place of learning (7)
Occupation (5) 21. Flower garland (3)
Across: 1. Satire, 4. Valour, 9. Rowdy, 10. Moisten, 11. Pioneer, 13. Beef, 14. Peripatetic, 17. Isle, 18. Brought, 21. Brazier, 22. Spree, 24. Eyelet, 25. Status.
Down: 1. Seraph, 2. Tow, 3. Rhyme, 5. Amiable, 6. On the wing, 7. Rant, 8. Smorgasbord, 12. Overstate, 15. Itemise, 16. Stress, 19. Onset, 20. Able, 23. Rot.
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A busy winter selling season has left us with low stock levels. If you are considering selling this spring, call us now while buyers are active. Your local specialists in Residential, Lifestyle, Coastal & Rural Real Estate, with nearly 40 years combined experience.
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ĀRIA SCHOOL
PANEL BEATER REQUIRED
Otorohanga Collision & Repairs is a busy automotive panel and repair shop based in central Otorohanga.
Fixed Term Scale A teacher, year 2-4. 2026
Aria Primary School
One year (Study Leave) position commences beginning term one. Job share - a possibility.
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TE KUITI CATTLE SALE
Friday, 29th August 12 noon Start 400 Assorted Cattle Including:
We are seeking a highly motivated and enthusiastic teacher who will inspire and motivate students to learn. Must have a strong curriculum knowledge particularly in literacy and numeracy.
0.5 permanent + 0.4 fixed term Scale A teacher, NE – Year 3 Position commences when suitable applicant is found. Job share - a possibility. We are seeking a highly motivated and enthusiastic teacher who will inspire and motivate students to learn. Strengths in working collaboratively, commitment to your own professional growth and strong classroom management skills are required. Our school has a passionate and supportive staff culture. We look forward to hearing from you.
Strengths in working collaboratively, commitment to your own professional growth and strong classroom management skills are required.
We are looking for an experienced Panel Beater to join our team on a 40 hour a week full time basis. Ideally this person will have 5 – 10 years of experience in the automotive industry. The successful applicant will be honest, reliable, have high work standards and be a team player. A competitive renumeration will be offered for the right person.
Please send CV plus covering letter and names of two referees to The Principal, Āria Primary School, 17 Barclay Road, RD1 Aria 3979 or e-mail to office@aria.school.nz. For further information, contact the principal Pam Voyce.
Our school has a passionate and supportive staff culture. We look forward to hearing from you.
Please send CV plus covering letter and names of two referees to The Principal, Āria Primary School, 17 Barclay Road, Āria 3979 or e-mail to office@aria.school.nz.
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Pakeho is a 540ha grazing unit located 9km south of Piopio which has a focus on growing high quality dairy heifers along side some beef trading.
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Email admin@coullfarms.co.nz or phone Duncan on 027 472 7110. Piripiri School
Acting Teaching Principal Vacancy Term 4 2025
We are seeking a dynamic and experienced professional to fill the role of Acting Teaching Principal for a fixed term at Piripiri School. This is an excellent opportunity to lead and teach in our wonderful rural school and ensure a smooth transition of leadership.
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To Apply: For an application pack or more information, please contact applications@piripiri.school.nz.
Applications close midday, Friday, September 5, 2025
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Join a leading agricultural machinery dealership! Giltrap Agrizone Otorohanga are looking for a dynamic Sales Consultant to join our team and build strong relationships with clients while delivering expert advice and solutions tailored to their needs.
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If this sounds like you, email your CV to HR@gaz.co.nz
TENDER OPPORTUNITY
Ōtorohanga Gardening - C1162
Ōtorohanga District Council (Council) invites tenders for the ŌTOROHANGA GARDENING
This Tender is for the intention of the Ōtorohanga District Council to engage a gardening contractor that will present the gardens to a level that the community will see as value for money.
Tender Opens: 21 August 2025
Tender questions deadline: 8 September 2025
Tender closes: 11 September 2025
GETS reference: RFx ID - 32297904
Full tender documentation and details are available on the GETS (Government Electronic Tenders Service) website using the RFx ID above.
For any enquiries, please contact Ōtorohanga District Council at robbie@otodc.govt.nz.
Movie this Wednesday, for the 'young at heart'
‘New Year’s Eve’
Morning tea 10am at the Journey Church, Te Kūiti, movie 10.30am All seniors welcome
NOTICE OF POSTPONEMENT OF SPECIAL GENERAL MEETING OF SHAREHOLDERS OF MARAEROA C INCORPOR ATION
Please note the SGM originally advertised for 7 September 2025 is POSTPONED until Saturday, 15 November 2025
Time: 10.30 am
Registrations open at 9.30 am Benneydale Hall, 12 Maniaiti St, Maniaiti/Benneydale
AGENDA:
1. Karakia Tīmatanga
2. Apologies
3. Election of committee of management members
4. Karakia Whakamutunga
FAQ’s and a proxy form for the SGM can be found here: https://tinyurl.com/maraeroac
Please bring a plate to share
Contact: Sherlene Tamaki-Tutaki sherlenetamakitutaki@gmail.com
PIRONGIA MARKET
Notification of new variable speed limits outside schools
New variable speed limits are now in place outside 14 schools across the Waitomo District. This work was undertaken as part of the legislation set by Central Government in October 2024.
The periods for the reduced speed limit zones are displayed on static signs or indicated by ‘light up’ electronic display speed signs. A table below lists the specific variable speed limit reductions and the periods they are active.
Āria School
Benneydale Primary School
Centennial Park School
Kinohaku School
Mōkau School
Piopio College & Piopio Primary
Piripiri School
Pukenui School
Rangitoto School
St Joseph’s Catholic School (Te Kuiti)
Te Kūiti High School
Te Kūiti Primary School
Te Kura o Tahaaroa
Whareorino School Variable Speed Limit
These changes mean the
50 km/h down to 30km/h
50 km/h down to 30km/h
50 km/h down to 30km/h
100 km/h down to 60km/h
50 km/h down to 30km/h
50 km/h down to 30km/h
100 km/h down to 60km/h
50 km/h down to 30km/h
100 km/h down to 60km/h
50 km/h down to 30km/h
50 km/h down to 30km/h
50 km/h down to 30km/h
50 km/h down to 30km/h
100 km/h down to 60km/h
8.30 to 9.10 AM
8.30 to 9.10 AM
8.30 to 9.10 AM
8.30 to 9.10 AM
8.00 to 8.40 AM
8.30 to 9.10 AM
8.30 to 9.10 AM
8.30 to 9.10 AM
ST LUKE’S MARKET DAY
This Saturday, September 6 8am-12 noon Carpark 85 Esplanade, Te Kūiti
$10 per space
Sellers and buyers welcome Enquiries: 021 201 0355 or 027 243 6312
Waitomo District Rates
Reminder - Instalment 1
This is a friendly reminder that the first instalment of your 2025/2026 rates is due by 5pm, Friday 29 August 2025. Rates invoices were posted out in July.
Payments received after 5pm, 29 August 2025 will attract a 10% penalty.
Rates payments can be made at the Customer Services and Visitor Hub, 160 Rora Street Te Kūiti, over the phone by credit card, on our website or by Internet Banking using your valuation number as your reference.
Please contact our friendly Customer Services Team on 0800 932 4357 for further assistance. Ben
Pirongia Community Centre, Crozier St Sunday, August 31, 9am - 1pm
Last Sunday of every month Email jim1@xtra.co.nz or ph Jim 027 366 5842
Ōtorohanga District Council
of upcoming meetings can be found at www.otodc.govt.nz/about-
Jobs, terrific bargains, useful services, legal notices and announcements – these are some of the great things you’ll find in your newspaper’s classified ad section. Connect to your neighbours in a proven reliable way.
When buyers and sellers need to connect…
www.otodc.govt.nz
101, Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act
NOTICE
Of an application for Off Licence Kio Kio United Rugby Football Club Inc has made application to the Waitomo District Licensing Committee at Waitomo for the renewal of an Club Licence in respect of the premises situated at 135 Paewhenua Road, Ōtorohanga known as Kio Kio United Rugby Football Club Inc. The general nature of the business conducted is a Sports Club. The days on which, and the hours during which liquor is intended to be sold under the licence, are Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, from 4:00pm to 11:00pm Friday, Saturday and Public Holidays, from 11:00am to 1:00am the following day Sunday, from 4:00pm to 11:00pm.
This application may be inspected during ordinary office hours at the office of the Waitomo District Licensing Committee, Waitomo District Council, Queen Street, Te Kuiti. Any person who is entitled to object and who wishes to object to the issue of the licence may, not later than 15 working days after the date of the publication of this notice, file a notice in writing of the objection with the Secretary of the District Licensing Committee at: Waitomo District Council, PO Box 404, Te Kuiti 3941 No objection to the renewal of a licence may be made in relation to a matter other than a matter specified in section 131 of the Sale & Supply of Alcohol Act 2012. This is the only publication of this notice.
MAIN, Anna –
Passed away August 30, 2022.
All Saints Piopio 22 Moa St Sunday 10am St Peter’s By The Sea, 25 Aria Tce, Mōkau 1st and 3rd Sunday 2pm
Piopio contact: 07 877 8097
Mōkau contact: 06 752 9123
PUBLIC NOTICE
Of an application for Off Licence
Te Kuiti Supermarket Ltd has made application to the District Licensing Committee at Waitomo District Council, Te Kuiti for the renewal of an off licence in respect of the premises situated at 39-51 Rora St, Te Kūiti known as New World Te Kūiti.
The general nature of the business conducted (or to be conducted) under the licence is supermarket. The days on which and the hours during which alcohol is (or is intended to be) sold under the licence are Monday-Sunday, 7am-9pm. The application may be inspected during ordinary office hours at the office of the Waitomo District Licensing Committee, Waitomo District Council, Queen St, Te Kūiti.
Any person who is entitled to object and wishes to object to the issue of the licence may, not later than 25 working days after the date of the publication of this notice, file a notice in writing of the objection with the Secretary of the District Licensing Committee at Waitomo District Council, PO Box 404, Te Kūiti 3941.
No objection to the issue of a licence may be made in relation to a matter other than a matter specified in section 105(1) of the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012.
No objection to the renewal of a licence may be made in relation to a matter other than a matter specified in section 131 of the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012.
This is the first publication of this notice.
Cherished precious darling girl of Bernie Nikora. An angel only lent.
Your life was a blessing, your memory a treasure “Ka nui taku aroha kia koe”
MILLAR, Kevin (Blackie)
Tragically taken from us 15 years ago today.
Though his smile is gone forever
And his hands we cannot touch
We still have so many memories Of the one we loved so much
Forever loved and missed by Kathryn, Averil, Bonnie, Jaymee and families.
Flexman, Christine Jane Chrissie (aka The Flower Fairy) Gone from us that smiling face, her cheerful vibrant ways, Her heart that touched so many friends, In treasured happy days. Memories lovingly cherished, so sadly missed ... ‘Your Girls’.
KENNEDY, Michael Ian Patrick – Died peacefully in Christchurch on the 20th of August 2025 following a short illness, aged 58. Dearly loved son of Marilyn Smith and the late Paul Kennedy, brother of Penny, Chris, Rachel and Mark, and dear friend of Helen Denize.
