King Country
Lauding the ladies
A packed sideline at Willoughby Park saw Old Boys win the Waikato women’s rugby premiership title on Saturday. But Ōtorohanga who came in as rank outsiders were within minutes of causing a boil over. Jesse Wood tells the story of a team which was just was the ‘Doc’ ordered.
Ōtorohanga women’s rugby side have built a family, a culture of support, and the fruit is now showing.
A magnificent chapter in their 2025 season came to a close on Saturday as they were pipped 21-12 by hosts Hamilton Old Boys Huskiez in the Waikato premiership final at Willoughby Park.
Under the eye of coach Murdoch “Doc” Whitiora-Reti and his assistant coach Murihiku Martell, aided by managers Te Arai Millar-Hetet and Jodi Whitiora-Te Uira, Ōtorohanga have become a strong unit.
They’ve stuck together for several years –three players received their 50 game blazers this season.
“Most of our players have been here over five years. There are long term players that come back after kids or play for another top tier club and come back,” Whitiora-Te Uira said.
“Doc probably has the draw in of 80 per cent of our team. They’re there for our coach. Lots of our players travel from the wider area. I suppose it’s a Ngāti Maniapoto thing.
“We have players from the coast, Taumarunui, Ōtorohanga, Te Kūiti - players from all those areas that want to play at premier level.”
The management are helping players become leaders and hope to inspire other women to represent Ōtorohanga.
“The whole team was amazing, but the likes of Grace Houpapa-Barrett and Rina Paraone’s leadership was great,” Whitiora-Te Uira said.
“Our number 10 Awa Whitiora, she’s the connection between our forwards and our backs. Without her mouth and her comms, the team folds.
“Superstars include our winger Ata Edwards and Libby Kearins-Te Whare who scored. She’s our kicker, our fullback and has
just joined from Hamilton Girls’ High School. Those two play New Zealand women’s open touch. They’re from Kāwhia and they’ve come home.”
Whitiora-Te Uira believes support was one of the main secrets to success. The leadership from the players was also outstanding.
“It takes lots of getting to know your players. We have mainly mums and only a few players at school without children.”
“The secret is making sure the children are okay and making sure the relationship at home with the partners is okay. Without that, the mums won’t turn up.
“We have a lot of dads involved that cook for us. We’ve got about five dads that have given up their sports so that our ladies can get to play. I think that’s a bit of the key, the wrap around support.
“That’s what’s been our secret is making a family. Everyone’s wheels fall off but if the motor keeps rolling, they can always jump back on.”
Ōtorohanga finished third after the roundrobin, winning six out of 10 games before beating the strong Melville side 13-10 in the semi-final.
After a tough semi-final loss last year, the team returned with fire in their bellies this season.
“It was always a challenge to play Melville. They’ve been one of the top two teams for about seven years now. Once we got that win, I think the whole Waikato was a bit shocked,” Whitiora-Te Uira said.
First seed Hamilton Old Boys had finished 21 competition points ahead of Ōtorohanga and previously beat them 46-0 and 38-19.
It was a completely different display in the grand final.
• See story, page seven.
The crowd is enthralled as try-scorer Libby Kearins-Te Whare gets a pass away during Saturday’s final.
Photo: Roy Pilott
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A ton of care
Congratulations Te Kuiti Hospital on your 100 years care and dedication to our community and surrounding districts. During my 50-plus years of living here, I have had the odd occasion as a patient. The care is amazing, from the great meals prepared by the kitchen staff to the support of the loyal nurses and doctors. My association with the hospital was during the 20 years I was involved as a volunteer with St John ambulance. Apart from the usual covering of rugby/netball games and attending accidents, we did many inter-hospital transfers of patients, including newborns through to Waikato hospital. Most trips usually included a nurse from one of the wards. It was very comforting to have them on board with their experience if something went wrong. These same staff have also dedicated many years working at our hospital.
I recall many a trip with Sister (Margaret) Buttimore on board, midwives Joan Hall, Taku Stanbury-Poa and the wonderful Bessie Patterson. Over the years, these ladies would have delivered hundreds of local babies between them. I would have also had on board Shona Hollinshead (who was also a volunteer ambo for a few years as well),
Margaret Dunn, Trish Brough, Linda Davy …. just to mention a few. Of course there was also Sister Meredith or Tichborne somewhere on duty. It was not only the nurses who looked after us, but the orderlies.
I must make a special mention of Les Addy who always kept the ambulance well stocked with clean linen, blankets, bandages and oxygen bottles. Even if he had finished his shift, when the ambulance arrived back, he would take the time to replenish the machine ready for the next trip or emergency. Always appreciated.
We are so fortunate to have such a wonderful local hospital and dedicated staff who keep it running so efficiently. Long may it continue.
Jan Crosland Te Kuiti
Water done well
Waitomo Council appears to be the first cab off the rank into the new Waikato Water Ltd .As we rush head first into this new company to satisfy our masters in Wellington, there are a few concerns that have not been addressed. Where does the up to $16 million to join this company come from? We only have around 4500 rate payers in the district ,and as far as I know we don’t
Netball by the sea
have spare millions sitting in the bank. We all know that companies can and are sold from time to time, so what is to stop Waikato water limited being sold in the future?
I think council have not informed us well around this up-front payment. We have been told about the dream of saving money due to amalgamation of staff from the councils involved but not the upfront spend. I also see that only three councils are getting in the start with others coming on board after the first three (including us) have done, and paid for the setup and other heavy lifting. It appears it will be three years before all six or seven councils are on board . There is an election coming up soon so it might be a good idea for every person whether a rate payer or not to get on the roll and vote. All of you people who rent should pay attention as well as vote because indirectly you are a rate payer by paying the rent which includes rates and insurance costs . Some on the current council were vocal against three waters but are quick to bow to the current central government and jump onto this current scam to privatize water .
Gordon Walker Piopio
Ōtorohanga sent this Under-14 squad team to the North Island Netball champs in New Plymouth in the first week of the school holidays and the King Country’s sole representatives finished ninth in the 13-strong Under-14 B grade, collecting two wins over Horowhenua from its five outings.
Briefs…
Calling for candidates
Nominations for the October local body elections have opened. No special qualifications are needed to run and anyone who is a New Zealand citizen, aged 18 or over and enrolled on the electoral roll, is eligible to stand for district and regional councils. Nominations close at on August 1. Local elections will be held by postal vote, with voting papers sent out from September 9. Election day is October 11.
Road clear
The High Court has rejected appeals against the New Zealand Transport Agency’s Mt Messenger bypass project. A two-lane 6km road between Uruti and Ahititi will avoid the existing route over Mt Messenger on State Highway 3. The NZTA board had approved funding of $365.1 million for the project.
Good Local expands
The publisher of the Waikato Business News and three weekly community papers – Cambridge, Te Awamutu and King Country News –has added a fifth masthead to the family. Good Local Media owner David Mackenzie has completed the purchase of the Bay of Plenty Business News. He made the announcement soon after Stuff revealed the Cambridge Edition community newspaper would be one of several mastheads to close.
Bylaws apply
Waitomo District’s revised dog control bylaws and dog control policy came into effect on July 1. Among the main amendments is a ruling that all of Centennial Park in Te Kūiti is now a prohibited area for dogs.
Shelter me…
A new shelter for mobility scooters is already making the Ōtorohanga District Library more accessible. Requested in the library’s latest survey, the improvement is intended to ensure people won’t end up with a wet seat while visiting the library in winter.
Waikeria works wonders
By Mary Anne Gill
A Waipā-based contractor has credited the Waikeria Prison redevelopment project with transforming his business and creating dozens of jobs.
JWI Earthmoving, a civil earthworks, concrete and logging company based in Ngāhinapōuri, was founded in 2016. The company was initially subcontracted for a small scope of work at Waikeria, but its role quickly expanded to include site establishment, landscaping, and support services.
Director Jason Inness, who returned to Te Awamutu after working in Australian mines, driving and civil construction, started the project in 2018 with four full-time staff.
Today, JWI employs 45 people - 30 full-time and 15 subcontractors - drawn from Waipā, King Country, and Hamilton.
The company also provided employment to eight “return to work” prisoners, supporting rehabilitation efforts.
The Waikeria redevelopment was delivered by CPB Contractors and Pacific Partnership under a Public Private Partnership with the Department of Corrections.
CPB Contractors general manager Paul Corbett said local employment was a key priority, and JWI’s growth was a clear example of the long-term economic benefits regional infrastructure projects can bring.
“We invested heavily in new equipment to meet the demands of the project,” said Inness.
That included concrete plants, excavators, bulldozers, rollers, trucks, and advanced machine control systems.
“These assets have since enhanced our capability and efficiency across other projects.”
Inness said working with CPB Contractors was a turning point for JWI. “JWI has grown from a small-scale operation with limited systems into a well-structured company capable of planning, managing, and executing large, complex projects with confidence.
“Over the past four years, we have developed and implemented robust systems and processes, including comprehensive quality assurance and cost control frameworks.”
The project helped JWI build its reputation in the civil construction sector and forge relationships with major industry players.
“It has also opened doors to new opportunities and demonstrated that a regional contractor like JWI can perform at the highest level on a nationally significant project,” said Inness.
Whangārei-based McKay, one of the largest privately owned electrical contracting companies in New Zealand, was another to benefit from the project. The company, founded in 1936, was able to use the project to grow its apprenticeship numbers to 60. Managing director Lindsay Faithfull said the opportunity presented growth opportunities for the business and for its employees who worked at Waikeria.
The new 500-bed facility includes a 96-bed mental health and addiction centre, offering enhanced care, education, and training to support prisoner rehabilitation.
The project covers 21ha and includes 28 new buildings, associated infrastructure including perimeter walls and fences, covered walkways and recreational facilities, requiring approximately 8.5 million work hours to complete.
Waikeria Prison sits on a 1200-hectare site on King Country’s northern border, 15km south of Te Awamutu and surrounded by long-established farms.
It was established in 1910 as a reformatory farm after the government stopped sending offenders to Tasmania.
Six prisoners, one carpenter and three labourers built the prison camp which went on to become the country’s first male borstal in 1925.
In 1981, it briefly became a youth institution, but was reinstated four years later as a men’s prison. In 2011 it became the country’s largest prison only to be later usurped by Rimutaka Prison.
Corrections have recruited 300 additional frontline staff while preparations are underway for a further expansion which would add a further 810 beds which, when completed in 2029, would make it New Zealand’s largest prison again.
Merger could follow water deal
By Chris Gardner
Waitomo mayor John Robertson sees joining Waikato Water Done Well as a stepping stone towards amalgamating Waitomo and Ōtorohanga districts. Robertson – a vocal advocate of a mergerraised the issue as Waitomo adopted the Long-Term Plan for 2026-27 which included joining four other councils in the council-controlled organisation last week. Hauraki, Matamata-Piako, Ōtorohanga, and South Waikato District Council have committed to joining the organisation after public consultation, and Waipā is set to make its final decision
this month.
Both councils would be left with around $10 million debt each after handing their drinking and waste water services over to the councilcontrolled organisation, Robertson said in his monthly report for June.
“Both the Otorohanga district and ourselves are relatively small in terms of the population base that we service – around 10,000 each. Waitomo is much larger in land area and has more sizeable public amenities – Brook Park, Les Munro Centre, Gallagher Recreation Centre,” Robertson said.
“A merger would be simple. It would return us to a district that makes sense for administrative and
cultural identity purposes - King Country/Te Rohe Põtae District. It is another necessary step to reduce the burden of rates on property owners.”
Deputy mayor Allan Goodard agreed with Robertson’s reasoning, saying Waitomo’s debt was a lot higher years ago.
“That was one of the stumbling blocks,” he said.
Drinking and waste water services will be provided by the council-controlled organisation owned by six Waikato district councils from July 1, 2026.
While more than 20 per cent of council operations will be transferred to Waikato Water Done Well, the council will need to find
a way to reduce overheads, Robertson said.
“If we do not address this issue, ratepayers will carry a burden that they should not,” he said.
“We are not alone in needing to plan for this. All other councils joining a council-controlled organisation will also need to do the same, including our neighbour, Otorohanga.”
In response Ōtorohanga mayor Max Baxter said, “you have got to admire John for his tenacity... it is bigger than that.”
Baxter, who is not standing for re-election, said he thought it would be more beneficial amalgamating Ōtorohanga and Waitomo with Waipā district council.
John Robertson
But Baxter thought it was worth waiting a couple of years to see how joining Waikato Water Done Well impacted councils.
“We have just got to make sure what works the best for ratepayers,” Baxter said.
Jason Inness of Waipā firm JWI Earthmoving.
AGE OF REASON
Time to talk super
By Richard Steele
I think it’s time we forgot the politics of the matter, and had a serious conversation about the universal superannuation, and how to keep paying it at the current rate to everyone who qualifies to receive it.
Serious because I don’t think we can afford to keep paying out to an ageing population, whether they need it or not. Serious also because , not only does it need future proofing in my opinion, but also, if it has to change, we must give people the decision as soon as possible, so they have plenty of time to plan and to save.
I’ve heard the arguments. We have paid our taxes all our working lives, now it’s payback time, and that’s true. But that does not alter the fact, that the economy just can’t
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afford to keep paying, at the current rate .
So rich people will miss out, and the rest will be means tested as to how much money we each will need to have a comfortable retirement.
To make my future forecasting even worse, it’s not that I think the country can’t afford the super, as much as the money the tax dollar pays toward all our social services is simply not getting to them.
Even more bluntly, every hospital, school, every road or sewer, has enough money being thrown at it, but between the treasury, and the consumer, the money disappears into a void of consultants , bureaucrats, and ticket clippers to such an extent that the waiting lists get longer, and not enough children leave school with the basic education we taxpayers have paid for them to receive.
We have to do better, and it’s how we do better that is the issue we all have to grapple with.
People in their forties should be made aware now that if changes are not made soon, change will be forced upon them at a time in their lives, when they can least afford it.
I don’t pretend to be an economist, but I am a pragmatic person who knows which way is up, most of the time. And I’ve seen enough reliable forecasts to leave me in no doubt that the only way to keep the current superannuation going, after about 2030/2035, will be by borrowing.
Going on what’s been borrowed in our names to get through Covid, we simply can’t afford to go down that road again.
ON SHAKY GROUND
Explosive eruptions
By Janine Krippner
It’s the time of year again when I am spending a month working in the Canary Islands, located offshore northern Africa but part of Spain. I am working with GeoTenerife for the third year, a group dedicated to addressing local geological challenges—most notably, helping communities prepare for future volcanic activity.
One of the most rewarding aspects of this work is mentoring students and watching them grow into experts. I learn just as much from them as they do from the experience. They go on to become the experts in their fields, pushing the boundaries of science in volcanology and other fields.
This year, I’m working alongside Ethan Hamilton, a Master’s student from Ireland who interned with the programme two years ago. Now, he’s researching explosive eruptions from Tenerife’s complex volcanic past.
While the most likely future eruption here would be relatively small -producing lava flows, volcanic ash, and maybe a new scoria cone (similar to what we could see in Auckland’s volcanic field) - it’s important to also understand the larger, more explosive eruptions and their potential impacts.
Ethan’s work provides a great opportunity to share what this type of research involves. He’s been traveling around the island documenting pumice deposits - light, porous volcanic rocks formed during explosive eruptions like we see around Taupō and Rotorua - from dozens of past events.
To start, he has driven around the island and found outcrops – places like roadcuts where the deposit is exposed at the surface. Once he finds them, he takes samples to analyse back home in the laboratory at Durham University,
and he spends time at each location taking careful notes on what he sees.
He uncovers clues given by the thickness of the deposits across the region, the patterns and variations within the deposit, and how different deposits relate to others across the landscape.
Ethan also studies the pumice clasts themselves, examining their size, shape, and the number of gas bubbles trapped as magma rose and exploded. He also notes the minerals that formed as the magma cooled, all of which reveal details about eruption dynamics.
Mixed within the pumice are lithicsfragments of older rock torn from the volcanic conduit or surrounding land during the violent eruptions. These usually appear as darker chunks within the lighter pumice and can include bits of older lava flows or deeper rocks like granite, which formed as magma cooled underground. The types and quantity of lithics offer insights into the eruption’s violence and the landscape it passed through.
The relationships between different deposits - for example, one sitting on top of anotherhelp reveal the island’s volcanic history. But pumice fall deposits are tricky: they come from ash plumes carried by wind, so they’re not evenly distributed and may be missing from some areas due to erosion.
Through this detailed work, Ethan aims to build a more complete eruption history of Tenerife, just like volcanologists do across our own volcanic landscapes.
Understanding this history is essential for forecasting future volcanic behaviour and preparing communities for what may come.
Dealing with honey bees-ness
By Chris Gardner
Mountain View Honey’s beekeeper Lindy Bennett approves of new bee excrement and flight path management guidelines being considered for her King Country counterparts.
Ōtorohanga District Council has included the guidance notes for bee keepers in the Otorohanga and Kawhia townships in a planned revision of its Keeping of Stock, Poultry and Bees Bylaw.
“Honeybees going on orientation, foraging or cleaning flights often excrete after exiting the hive,” the guidance notes say. “This can leave distinct trails of excrement within a 500-metre radius of the hive and can cause a nuisance to neighbours.”
Bee excrement is typically yellow to brown and can be hard to remove from clothing, vehicles and buildings.
“Hives can be repositioned on the property or rotated to provide flight paths in a direction away from neighbouring properties.”
Pirongia based Bennett, who keeps 50 hives across the Waikato and Bay of Plenty, said: “Overall, the
guidance notes look solid and cover the key things hobbyist beekeepers need to know.
“It’s great to see something being put in place to encourage responsible beekeeping in town — especially as more people get interested in keeping a hive or two in their backyard.”
The draft revision to the bylaw’s guidance notes say honeybees will fly at head height for some distance from their hives unless their surrounding environment directs their flight path upwards.
“Honeybees can be encouraged to fly above head height if a flyway barrier, two or more metres tall, is placed one to two metres out from the front of the hive entrance. It is important that flightpaths are not directed across public pathways on private and public land. Barriers that can be used include shrubs or trees, a wall, a hedge or a fence.”
Ōtorohanga regulatory and growth group manager
Tony Quickfall told the June monthly meeting the beekeeping guidance notes were based on best practice from Waipā District Council which had
engaged a subject matter expert some years ago.
Marianne Sager, of Gradara Avenue, Ōtorohanga, told The News she has resorted to cleaning bee poo from her windows daily with a scraper in the height of the summer.
But she was philosophical with her lot, accepting that bee poo was the price paid for pollination and honey.
“To be honest, I can’t see how adding a two-metre flyway barrier will make any difference,” she said.
While her neighbour used to keep bees, he no longer did, and her windows still got dirtied by bees.
Kāwhia/Tihiroa councillor and hobby apiarist Kit Jeffries said bee excrement could be hard to remove.
“It can be quite a bit of a pain,” he said. “It does tend to stick to things. If you have ever had to get it off your car you need to use some sort of alcohol.”
Natalie Southgate has kept bees in her Phillips Avenue, Ōtorohanga, garden for three years and has two hives but is not a supporter of the proposed revision of the bylaw.
Candidate Information
Ōtorohanga beekeeper Natasha Southgate says a proposed new bylaw requiring beekeepers to manage the flightpath of bees is silly.
“Everybody’s situation is different,” she said. “I’ve never had problem with excrement at all.
“I don’t face hives towards any buildings and my neighbours are happy and get the occasion jar of honey too.
Southgate is raising funds to install hives at Ōtorohanga Primary
School.
Consultation is open on what the council is now calling the Animal Nuisance Bylaw 2025 until August 8.
The council will deliberate on submissions and decide on the final draft on August 26 before the new bylaw comes into effect in September.
Thursday 10 July at 7pm
Expert’s view
Hamilton based Introduction to Beekeeping lecturer Dara Dimitrov says healthy bees do not soil their hives.
“Bees taking cleansing flights indicate they are healthy,” said Dimitrov, who has a Masters in Beekeeping from Cornell University in New York.
“The issue is whether there are commercial apiaries near urban housing.
“Urban beekeepers are usually not the problem, because there is a restriction on the number of hives they can keep in their gardens. The recommendation is to keep your happy hive facing away from your neighbour’s property, so they are not in the bees’ flight path.
“Having said that, if the surrounding neighbourhood is a good source of food, the bees practise floral fidelity, which literally translates to the whole hive going to that one or several sources until the flowering stops. It results in excellent fruit and vegetable production.
“Commercial apiaries, on the other hand, typically have between 20 and 40 hives. A hive may have up to 100,000 in bees, so we are talking huge volumes of bees.
“You cannot ‘stop’ bees from practising floral fidelity or following a particular flight path - the only solution is to move the hives.”
Waitomo keeps rate rise low
By Chris Gardner
Waitomo District Council has agreed a 2.91 per cent rates increase, down from the projected 7.78 per cent increase.
“As has been the case for the past six years, it is one of the lowest increases in the country,” said mayor John Robertson as the council adopted its annual plan.
Neighbouring Ōtorohanga District Council recently imposed a 10.16 per cent rates increase.
The rate will raise $26.2 operations.”
The council had also a avoided the temptation to rate residents for initiatives like the Timber Trail, Hamilton Waikato Tourism, and Maru Trust, as well as closing down loss making holiday parks.
An estimated $900,000 was saved with the decision not to renew the council sea wall at Point Road, Mōkau.
“Things are really tough for those in our community on low incomes with families, and for pensioners who rely on
Meghan Hawkes dials back the clock to 1930 to see what was making the news in the King Country.
The Grand Hotel fire
Ten tons of ‘superfine’ butter, in 400 boxes, were manufactured, graded, and dispatched from the Otorohanga plant of the New Zealand Co-operative Dairy Association during one month. The manufactured butter was considerably heavier in volume than in any other month in the history of the factory.
The receiving station of the Waikato Valley Dairy Company was also received a greater volume of cream than ever before. It was regularly railed to its butter manufacturing plant at Frankton Junction. The Te Awamutu Dairy Company was also collecting an ever-increasing supply of cream from its King Country clients.
The Grand Hotel, one of the oldest buildings in Te Kūiti, was destroyed in an early morning fire. The building, which was being renovated, was a two-storeyed wooden one and burned fiercely, the heat being terrific. The hotel had about 60 rooms, and there were four shops in the block. The fire had a strong hold before it was discovered, and the hotel boarders escaped in their night attire, several being slightly singed. The fire brigade worked to prevent fire spreading to the block across the street, the windows in the shops of which were all cracked. Stock in the Carlton Tea Rooms was damaged and the whole of Miss Pine’s stationary stock was completely destroyed. The office furniture of the Aard service car business was salvaged and Hains’ butcher shop was saved but damaged by smoke and water.
A Canterbury boy who yearned for a backblocks life wrote to the Waitomo County Council – “I came across a 1926 Auckland provincial handbook and noticed there
some excellent opportunities for the settler in the King Country. I would be very much obliged if you would send me particulars to the taking up of land there. I am 18 years of age, have had four years high school education, and have been on a farm all my life. I am very keen on that style of life, especially away out in the back country”.
Councillor Wilson said, “he sounds willing; if he is a good boy I’ll give him a job so that he can have an opportunity of looking round”. It was decided that the council should forward a reply in terms of Councillor Wilson’s offer.
Camp date set
A closure date for the Te Kūiti Holiday Park has been confirmed.
The Waitomo District Council facility on Te Kumi Road will close from next Monday. The facility cost about $45,000 a year to maintain and operate, and with revenue around $13,000, ratepayers are contributing about $30,000 towards the cost.
Decommissioning activities will take place over the coming week - a motorhome dump station on the site will remain in use and access to it will not be affected by the works. It is planned to move the bathroom and kitchen facilities to the Marokopa Holiday Park to replace aging facilities there.
Ben Smit
Ken’s celebration
A new artwork titled Ka pua, te Koowhai, designed in partnership with cancer patients, has been blessed in the radiation therapy unit of the Lomas Building at Waikato Hospital.
The interactive kōwhai tree mural offers patients a way to acknowledge the completion of their radiation treatment.
Ken Fyfe, a school bus driver from Ngaroma, south east of Te Awamutu, was the first patient to mark the completion of his treatment by placing a flower on the patient graduation tree. He was thrilled to be chosen for the honour and shared his gratitude for the care he received.
“It’s the end of my radiation treatment after three weeks,” Ken said.
“The staff here are absolutely fabulous – they explained everything to me clearly and were so kind. They really can’t do enough for you. The whole experience has been very good.”
Located on Level B1 near the medical linear accelerator treatment rooms and waiting area, the artwork offers patients a way to mark the completion of their treatment. Instead of ringing a bell, patients are invited to place a flower or seed pod on the treesymbolising strength, growth, and new beginnings.
Radiation therapy can span several weeks, with patients returning daily for treatment. Over
time, these visits become part of their routine - they become familiar with the staff and the treatment process.
When treatment finishes, we see it as an important opportunity to acknowledge this milestone and mark the completion of their journey.
Radiation therapist Charlene Casson, who leads co-design projects for the service, says this latest project highlights the importance of involving patients.
“Co-design means involving the people who use the service right from the beginning. There’s no point creating something we think is great if it doesn’t resonate with the people it’s meant for,” she said.
Working alongside two other radiation therapists, a nurse, and a group of patients, the team explored options including a bell, a certificate, or a native tree. A survey of 62 patients and interviews with several others helped guide the decision.
“The overwhelming response was in favour of a tree – something native and symbolic, where patients could place a decoration on it,” Charlene says.
The group chose the kōwhai tree. With funding support from the Oncology Trust, Waikato artist Siobhan Boughton was commissioned to create the mural.
The final piece, titled Ka pua, te Koowhai – The fruit of the kōwhai will blossom – combines
hand-painted and 3D elements and features 75 moveable kowhai flowers or seed pods that patients can place on the tree. Once the tree is full, a symbolic ‘wind’ blows through, allowing the process to begin again.
The mural has already generated enthusiasm and engagement among
patients, many of whom are keen to take part in the tradition.
“This is something very special, and a first of its kind for New Zealand,” said Michael Taylor, who leads the Radiation Therapy service, at the recent blessing.
“International literature suggests a shift in how services need to
celebrate these milestones. Our patients are an important voice in shaping how we deliver care and we pride ourselves on their involvement.”
“It’s a gentle, quiet and meaningful way for patients to recognise the completion of their treatment.” said Charlene.
From 1 July 2025
Ken Fyfe of Ngaroma placed a flower on the patient graduation tree. His partner Sharon and the Radiotherapy team were there to support him.
The tale of the women’s final
By Jesse Wood
Black Ferns legends Portia Woodman-Wickliffe and Ruahei Demant were on hand to present Ōtorohanga players their grand-final jerseys ahead of the premier women’s final clash with Old Boys Huskiez.
“They told the ladies, regardless of what happens, you’ve made it. Just have fun,” Jodi Whitiora-Te Uira, said.
“Those little messages kept our ladies playing good rugby.”
The well-attended muddy finale was a culmination of a great season for Ōtorohanga.
Leading 7-5 at halftime, courtesy of a Libby Kearins-Te Whare try and conversion, the visitors were more than holding their their own.
Old Boys then kicked two penalties through Keira Russell and were up 11-7.
Ōtorohanga pressed and scored through former Black Ferns front-rower Grace Houpapa-Barrett.
But Old Boys, down 12-11 fought back as several penalties went their way and the visitors barely saw the ball again. The Huskiez then scored another try and sealed the deal on full-time with a third, for a 21-12 win.
Although Old Boys were crowned champions, rugby and family were the winners on the day.
Whitiora-Te Uira said the rugby community has been incredible.
“Every year we get higher and higher [on the table]. It was a huge achievement.”
“Hautapu’s physio volunteered to help with us in the final because we hadn’t had a physio all year. To have a volunteer put her hand up was huge. It was a big, warm heart feeling to have someone like her reach out to my ladies.
“The players said they felt the sideline support during the final. They definitely felt the presence of our community and they couldn’t be more grateful.
“Win or lose, that was something that they took away, to be proud. They played their hearts out because of that.”
Powerhouse midfielder Rina Paraone fends off an Old Boys defender.
Hooker Nita Koroheke has a strong carry.
Left winger Ata Edwards showcases her skill.
Grace Houpapa-Barrett crashes over the chalk for Ōtorohanga’s second try. Photos: Roy Pilott
Time for semis action
By Norris Woodbine
With the King Country premiership club rugby season having completed the round robin format last Saturday we now have the prospect of semifinal action taking centre stage this weekend while the first division final will be played out at Piopio.
Over the past few seasons Piopio and Taumarunui Eels have fought out some torrid battles in what has become something of a traditional match up and the prospect of a continuation of their rivalry on Saturday offers rugby fans a mouthwatering contest.
Piopio have a 2-0 record over the course of the season but finals footy is another beast and the Eels have made steady improvement and are sure to arrive at Rukuhia Domain primed and ready for action.
With New Zealand Heartland number eight Caleb Foote leading the way and in superb form over the past few weeks the Piopio pack is a solid outfit and features former Ram Isaac Griffin who is a powerhouse.
Halfback Kyan Reymer has caught the eye of many good judges and can celebrate a call-up to the Maniapoto Representative side where he will be joined by Nathan Crooks, Josh Black, Matt Reilly, Griffin, and Jackson Hurley.
In the final week both these sides were defeated by Tongariro United and Taupo Marist respectively and these two sides have earned the right to host the premiership semi’s by completing the season in first and second place.
Taupo Marist will host Taumarunui Districts in a replay of last season’s final and in their last meeting only one try separated the teams at the final whistle.
Despite that Marist will start warm favourites as they are proving to be something of a juggernaut after posting some
large scorelines over the season.
Waitete courtesy of a third placed finish will also have to perform on the road as Tongariro United wound up in second place by a narrow margin and did inflict the only defeat on Marist all season.
Both these sides have tasted success over the season having both won their home encounters and for Waitete the season has proved to be a marked improvement from their 2024 campaign.
The Waitete pack has been a formidable unit all season and will be looking to dominate up
front before unleashing their exciting young backs.
Of concern is what appeared to be a serious injury to the strike weapon that is Baven Brown Jnr against District last week and the coaches will be sweating on his availability as he will be hard to replace.
Locals have the possibility of an exciting match at Piopio while we can be assured the Blue Army will descend upon Turangi to battle Tongariro United in force with an air of confidence a finals berth will be booked and on the horizon.
All games kick off at 2.30pm
Speed steps for schools
Electronic variable speed limit signs and road markings are to be installed at 14 school sites as part of a Waitomo District Council’s speed management implementation project.
The project will benefit Āria, Benneydale primary, Centennial Park, Kinohaku, Mōkau, Piopio college and primary, Piripiri, Pukenui, Rangitoto, St Joseph’s Catholic (Te Kūiti), Te Kūiti high and primary, Te Kura o Tahaaroa and Whareorino schools.
Council general manager Shyamal Ram says road safety, particularly around schools is crucial for protecting students.
“Measures like designated drop-off zones, speed reductions, and pedestrian safety education are great ways of creating a safer environment near schools,” he said.
“At council we are pleased to be able to do our bit to help ensure the safety of school children by installing signs and road markings.”
A new approach to setting speed limits finalised by the government came into force last October and it is now responsible for setting road speed limits, including the setting of speed limits outside schools.
“We hope these safety improvements work well, and it will help drivers do their bit and slow down when travelling near school sites so we can all contribute to the safety of our children,” Ram said.
Work was scheduled to begin this week and will take about five weeks to complete. Work outside individual school sites will take about one to three days to complete.
The work will be undertaken by Inframax Construction, Combined Road and Traffic Services and Roadmarkers NZ. The contractors will aim to work outside of school peaks to minimise disruption.
Waitete’s Baven Brown, pictured in action earlier this season, could be in doubt for the clash with Tongariro United.
How have we done this year?
If you live in Ōtorohanga Urban or Kāwhia, do you receive kerbside rubbish and recycling?
Yes - please answer the next two questions
No - please go to straight to the section "Lets talk about communication..."
How satisfied are you with the overall service of weekly kerbside collection in the last year?
How could Council improve the weekly kerbside collection?
As part of Ōtorohanga District Council’s commitment to our community we are continually striving to improve all aspects of what we deliver. This quick survey focuses on the key areas of communication, parks and reserves, kerb-side rubbish/recycling collection and a general gauge on how our relationship with you is going. We invite you to take 10 minutes to share your experiences and help us make Ōtorohanga District an even better place to live.
To answer 'face questions' circle only one face that best represents your answer.
First things first, which age bracket do you fit into? We ask so that each year we get better at collecting views from a cross section of our community
F Under 16
F 16-20
F 20-30
F 30-50
F 50-65
If you live in Ōtorohanga Urban or Kāwhia, do you receive kerbside rubbish and recycling?
F 65 and over
F Would rather not say
Let talk about communication...
Let talk about communication...
Do you think Ōtorohanga District Council communicates well with the community?
Do you think Ōtorohanga District Council communicates well with the community?
What are your preferred ways of receiving Council communication?
What are your preferred ways of receiving Council communication? You can choose up to three. Website
You can choose up to three.
F Website
F Newspaper
F Antenno
F Facebook
F Instagram
F LinkedIn
Direct email (e-newsletter) Posters
Which of the following communities do you live in?
How satisfied are you with the overall service of weekly kerbside
F Ōtorohanga Urban
F Kāwhia
F Aotea
F Ōpāraū
F Ōtorohanga Rural - east of State Highway 3
F Ōtorohanga Rural - west of State Highway 3
F Not sure
If you live in Ōtorohanga Urban or Kāwhia, do you receive kerbside rubbish and recycling?
F Yes - please answer the next two questions
F No - please go to straight to the section “Lets talk about communication...”
How satisfied are you with the overall service of weekly kerbside collection in the last year?
Community
F Direct email (e-newsletter)
F Posters
F Community newsletters (letterbox drop)
F Other, tell us more ............................................................................................
If you read the newspaper which ones do you read - tick all that apply:
F King Country News
F Te Awamutu News
F Other - tell us more .........................................
Do you get (or can you find) Council information you need when you need it?
What information below is important to you, and you want to receive communications about?
F Fees and charges
F Rates
F Key Council decisions
F News
F Projects
F Consultations / Surveys
F Services information ie opening hours of customers service and rubbish / recycling
F Disruptions to our services (ie: water shutdowns)
F Elected members ie Mayor, Councillors, Board Members
F Dog registration
What other topics are important for you to know more about and would like Council to include in future communications?
How could Council improve the way it communicates?
If you chose ‘No’ we’d love to know why...
(Choose all that apply)
F Don’t have any transportation
F Don’t have a library card
F Am too busy
F Library hours aren’t convenient
F Library staff is unwelcoming
F Don’t need to use it
F Buy my own books/magazines/DVDs
F Parking is too difficult
If you live in Ōtorohanga Urban or Kāwhia, do you receive kerbside rubbish and recycling?
F It is too hard to find what I am looking for
Yes - please answer the next two questions
F Use a neighbouring public library
No - please go to straight to the section "Lets talk about communication..."
F Other (please specify)
How satisfied are you with the overall service of weekly kerbside collection in the last year?
How could Council improve the weekly kerbside collection?
We have a few questions that relate to our parks and reserves...
Below is a list of parks and reserves that Council owns and/or manages. Please select all the ones you have visited in the past 12 months.
F Ōtorohanga Domain ŌTOROHANGA
If you live in Ōtorohanga Urban or Kāwhia, do you receive kerbside rubbish and recycling?
F Island Reserve ŌTOROHANGA
Yes - please answer the next two questions
F Bob Horsfall ‘Rotary Park’ ŌTOROHANGA
F Jim Barker - Kiwiana Playground ŌTOROHANGA
No - please go to straight to the section "Lets talk about communication..."
F Reg Brett ‘Kiwiana Playground’ ŌTOROHANGA
How satisfied are you with the overall service of weekly kerbside collection in the last year?
F Windsor Park ŌTOROHANGA
F Te Ara a Waiwaia (Stopbank) Walkway ŌTOROHANGA
F Huiputea Reserve ŌTOROHANGA
F Waipa Esplanade landfill site – dog exercise area ŌTOROHANGA
F Moerangi Scenic Reserve ŌTOROHANGA
How could Council improve the weekly kerbside collection?
F Harpers Ave green space ŌTOROHANGA
F Omimiti Reserve (Jervois St) KĀWHIA
F Kāwhia Domain KĀWHIA
F Kaora St/ Te Karewa/ the Triangle – foreshore recreation area, amenity KĀWHIA
F Morrison Rd Reserve AOTEA
F Little Park (Lawton Drive) AOTEA
If you live in Ōtorohanga Urban or Kāwhia, do you receive kerbside rubbish and recycling?
F Waipapa Reserve RURAL
Yes - please answer the next two questions
F NONE
No - please go to straight to the section "Lets talk about communication..."
F Other, tell us more ...........................................................................................
Let talk about communication...
How satisfied are you with the overall service of weekly kerbside collection in the last year?
Do you think Ōtorohanga District Council communicates well with the community?
Do you think that the Ōtorohanga District has a good VARIETY of parks and reserves?
How could Council improve the weekly kerbside collection?
What are your preferred ways of receiving Council communication? You can choose up to three.
Direct email (e-newsletter)
Community newsletters (letterbox drop)
Other, tell us more
How could we improve the VARIETY of parks or reserves?
Let talk about communication...
Do you think Ōtorohanga District Council communicates well with the community?
If you read the newspaper which ones do you read - tick all that apply: King Country News
How satisfied are you with the QUALITY of the parks and reserves that Council owns or manages?
Te Awamutu Courier
Other - tell us more
Do you get (or can you find) Council information you need when you need it?
What are your preferred ways of receiving Council communication? You can choose up to three. Website
Direct email (e-newsletter)
Posters
Community newsletters (letterbox drop)
Other, tell us more
How could we improve the QUALITY of the parks and reserves?
If you read the newspaper which ones do you read - tick all that apply:
We would also love to know what you think about our Libraries…
King Country News
Te Awamutu Courier
Other - tell us more
Have you used any of the library services in the past year? That might include books/magazines/DVD issues, online services and resources, Library programmes, computers, printing or internet services.
Do you get (or can you find) Council information you need when you need it?
F Yes
F No
If you chose ‘Yes’ you may have already received and completed a targeted Library survey, but if not please follow the website link engage.otodc.govt.nz or QR Code to help us improve our library services. Alternatively collect a paper version from one of our libraries or main Council office.
If you live in Ōtorohanga Urban or Kāwhia, do you receive kerbside rubbish and recycling?
Yes - please answer the next two questions
No - please go to straight to the section "Lets talk about communication..."
Last but not least, we believe that trust is important in every relationship.
How satisfied are you with the overall service of weekly kerbside collection in the last year?
How much do you trust the Ōtorohanga District Council?
Let talk about communication... Do you think Ōtorohanga District Council communicates well with the community?
How could Council improve the weekly kerbside collection?
What are your preferred ways of receiving Council communication? You can choose up to three.
Please tell us the reason for your trust rating?
How satisfied are you with the overall performance of Ōtorohanga District Council in the last year?
Direct email (e-newsletter)
Posters
Community newsletters (letterbox drop)
Other, tell us more ...................................................................................................................
Let talk about communication... Do you think Ōtorohanga District Council communicates well with the community?
If you read the newspaper which ones do you read - tick all that apply:
King Country News
Te Awamutu Courier
Other - tell us more
What are your preferred ways of receiving Council communication? You can choose up to three.
Thank you for taking the time to fill out this survey.
Do you get (or can you find) Council information you need when you need it?
Website Newspaper
Please return it to Council by 1 August 2024. You can hand deliver or post it to Ōtorohanga District Council
Antenno
17 Maniapoto Street
Ōtorohanga
Direct email (e-newsletter)
Posters
or drop it in to either of our libraries.
Community newsletters (letterbox drop)
Other, tell us more ...................................................................................................................
If you would like to be in to win one of the two $100 Prezzy Cards please leave your contact details below
If you read the newspaper which ones do you read - tick all that apply:
King Country News
Te Awamutu Courier
Other - tell us more
Name .................................................
Do you get (or can you find) Council information you need when you need it?
Would you like to receive emails, newsletters and information from Council to keep you informed of activities, surveys and consultations? If you answer ‘YES’ please make sure you have completed the contact details above.
F Yes please
F No thank you
Once the summary report has been created it will be published on our website. Check it out to see how we have done over all.
Your personal details will not be shared with the public or any third party.
Otewa trio second in farmers’ test
By Jon Rawlinson
Three Ōtorohanga youngsters claimed a podium spot at Young Farmer of the Year’s AgriKids competition last weekend.
Held in Winton, near Invercargill, the AgriKids Grand Final saw top qualifiers from regional events take on a range of farmingrelated challenges.
Marlborough team, the Oinks, finished in first place and the King Country Stags, John Woodward, Isaac Wilson, and Jacob Bolt, all aged 12, were runners-up following a hardfought competition.
“It was pretty cool to finish second,” John Woodward said. “The quiz was pretty hard and so were a couple of the modules. It wasn’t as tough overall as it was last year, but it was a tough competition.”
The trio also competed in last year’s final but did not place.
While Jacob Bolt is home-schooled, his team mates attend Ōtewā School. Together, they competed against 20 other teams from throughout the country.
Beginning with a quiz, the youngest of the Young Farmer finalists then undertook modules covering various aspects of the primary industries. One of these involved driving a tractor.
Isaac said the module section was his favourite part of the competition, especially modules on TB and pests because he likes animals.
The final Race Off event engaged competitors in a quick-fire relay of agricultural activities including go-karting, solving a riddle and a three-legged race.
John wasn’t the only Woodward putting his farming skills to the test; his younger brother, Jack, 11, competed on the Young Guns team alongside Jacob’s sister, Brearna Bolt, 9, and
Sam Blewett, 10. John and Jack’s mum, Susie Woodward, said all six gave the competition their best shot. “It was really nice and they put in a lot of effort. They were really pleased that they were rewarded for that. Our other team, the Young Guns, didn’t make the top three, but we’re so proud of them too.”
Ōtewā School principal, Carolyn Pilton, was also pleased by her students’ efforts.
“They’ve all put in so much effort, so much training along the way. It was great to see them come away with second place this year – they really deserved it, it’s an amazing result.”
The annual Young Farmer of the Year contest yielded more winners. Representing the Waikato/Bay of Plenty region, Hugh Jackson was ‘over the moon’ on being named Young Farmer of the Year 2025.
“With this title, I really hope to help showcase the talent we have coming through and highlight the opportunities that are there for young people,” he said.
Jackson is a sheep and beef farmer from Te Akau, north of Raglan.
A duo from North Canterbury’s Rangiora High School, John Lundy and Harry Parish, secured top honours in the In the Junior Young Farmers class.
Graymont invites applications for the 2025 community-focused Carbon Reduction Fund
We are proud to announce that we are accepting applications for the Graymont Carbon Reduction Fund , an innovative, grass-roots initiative designed to support the development of carbon-reduction initiatives in the communities across the globe that we call home.
The fund’s role is to support projects focused on:
• Protecting the environment by the responsible use of resources
• Reducing our carbon footprint through increased energy e iciency
• Developing and maintaining natural, biological ‘carbon sinks’ such as agricultural land, forests or peat bogs that act as a natural o set for carbon
Graymont's mission is to deliver essential calcium-based solutions to meet the world’s changing needs.
If you have a project idea that relates to any of these topics, the GCRF is looking for you!
For additional information, please contact
Applications are due by August 8th, 2025 : Shane Kilian skilian@graymont.com
On the podium – from left, Jacob Bolt, John Woodward and Isaac Wilson with NZ Young Farmers’ Lynda Coppersmith.
EXPERTS AUTOMOTIVE DIRECTORY
JIM WRIGHT NISSAN - ALL THE RIGHT MOVES...
Well known in the Waikato for quality vehicles and service, Jim Wright Nissan also calls King Country home, Ōtorohanga branch manager Merv Carr confirms.
“At both locations, we have a complete range of Nissan utes, SUVs and hybrids, new and used, and we deliver comprehensive after-sales support through an expert team ready to get the job done.”
Established in Hamilton almost 30 years ago, the company has come a long way. However, while times change, some things never go out of style.
“Excellent vehicles should be backed by exceptional service,” Merv says. “It’s by providing both that we’ve remained one of the top performing Nissan dealers nationwide.”
Covering all bases, from personal vehicles through to entire commercial fleets, there’s a Nissan to suit everyone’s lifestyle and budget.
“Whether you’re after a rugged Navara ute, an X-Trail or Qashqai SUV, we know these vehicles like the back of our hands so we will have the perfect model to meet your needs.”
In it for the long haul, the team at Jim Wright Nissan Ōtorohanga has factory trained technicians able to assist with a wide range of vehicle servicing and repairs, no matter what make or model
“From sales, financing and insurance, to genuine Nissan parts, we’re able to get our customers moving and make sure they stay that way.”
Young at Heart Aligning your lifestyle
Dispute Resolution
Attorney
Choosing a retirement village that suits your needs in Waipa is an important decision that involves more than just nding a comfortable home. It’s about selecting a community and lifestyle that matches your health needs, nancial situation, and personal preferences - both now and into the future.
New Zealand has taken to the retirement village concept like a duck to water and as an industry in just about every town, now o ers a wide range of options, from independent living units to full-service care facilities.
When rst looking, the overriding point is consider your ideal lifestyle. Do you want to live close to amenities, close to family, or near a park or other visually stunning location?
Some prefer a peaceful rural setting, while others want the buzz of an urban village atmosphere near cafes, shops, and medical facilities.
Many retirement villages are designed with lifestyle in mind, o ering amenities like communal lounges, libraries, tness centres, and landscaped gardens. Make sure the village aligns with how you want to spend your time - whether that’s joining clubs, gardening, swimming, or simply relaxing in a quiet space.
It’s also essential to think ahead. Even if you’re t and independent now, your needs may change over time. Some o er “continuum of care” options, allowing residents to move from independent living to assisted living or rest home care without having to leave the village.
Look for villages that provide on-site healthcare or have partnerships with local medical providers. Ask about emergency response systems, nurse availability, and procedures for changing care needs if you think this will be a necessity in the short to immediate term.
Understanding the nancial model of a retirement village is also vital and you really need expert advice with this – and involve your family. Most villages operate under a licence to occupy (LTO) model, which means you pay a lump sum for the right to live in the unit, but don’t own it outright.
There are also weekly fees for maintenance and services. When you leave, a deferred management fee (DMF) - usually around 20–30% of your initial payment - is deducted, although this is coming under increasing scrutiny from the government and may well change. Be sure to get legal advice and read the disclosure statement carefully before you sign on any dotted line. As always, the small print will be the kicker.
Compare what’s included in the fees: some villages bundle utilities, rates, and insurance, while others charge separately.
Every village has its own culture, shaped by its residents and sta . Visit several to get a feel for the atmosphere. Are people friendly? Is there a diverse range of activities and events? Talk to current residents to hear their experiences. Some villages have religious or cultural a liations, which may be important to you.
Also consider the rules - some are pet-friendly, while others aren’t; some allow grandchildren to stay overnight, others limit visitors.
Retirement villages are regulated by the Retirement Villages Act 2003. Make sure the village is registered and follows best practices. The Retirement Villages Association of New Zealand (RVA) accredits many reputable operators.
Either way, it’s not a decision to enter without careful research and consideration, but if you do, it can be a fabulous experience as you enter your twilight days.
Across 1. Scour (5) 4. Junkie
19. Seasoned sausage (6)
Sensitive (6)
Whopper (3)
Taunt (6)
Giver (5)
Scapula (8,5)
Florid (3)
Musical note (5)
Irritated (7) 5. Cleansing agent (9) 6. Dance creator (13) 11. Ride on another person (9) 14. Cold-blooded creature (7) 18. Jotted down (5) 21. Tall vase (3)
Last week
Across: 1. Savage, 4. Acuity, 9. Ratio, 10. Nursery, 11. Athlete, 13. Late, 14. Overbalance, 17. Limp, 18. Alfalfa, 21. Biofuel, 22. Burnt, 24. Tether, 25. Weapon.
Down: 1. Streak, 2. Vat, 3. Gnome, 5. Corolla, 6. Identical, 7. Yo-yo, 8. Inseparable, 12. Have it out, 15. Rupture, 16. Carton, 19. Fable, 20. Abet, 23. Rip.
12 Oak Street, Morrinsville
This spacious home sits on a generous 2331sqm (approx) lifestyle section and offers the perfect blend of modern living and serene outdoor space.
The family layout of 250sqm (approx) offers four bedrooms including a spacious master with ensuite and private balcony. The modern open plan kitchen and dining area create a seamless flow for entertaining. The family room is perfect for relaxation, while the separate lounge provides a cosy retreat.
The home is well insulated, ensuring a warm and inviting
environment no matter the season. Entertain outdoors on the spacious deck where you can enjoy a BBQ in the sun overlooking the beautiful rural vista and landscaped gardens. The expansive outdoor area features a stunning spa pool, perfect for unwinding after a long day. A double garage with internal access and a separate garden shed provides ample storage.
Located nearby to schools and amenities. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to make this stunning property your own. Contact John Pinny today to arrange a viewing and experience all that 12 Oak Street has to offer. For Sale $940,000 View Saturday 12 July, 12.30 - 1.00pm rwotorohanga.co.nz/OTO30327
John Pinny 021 555 736 john.pinny@raywhite.com
Open Home
22 Colin Brook Place, Te Kūiti
1A Hetet Street, Te Kūiti
Sunday 13 July
Ōtorohanga
Benneydale 14 Ellis Road
Easy living on Ellis
Set on a 809 m2 flat, freehold section, this character-filled 1940s home offers comfort, practicality, and the convenience of being close to the local school and shops. Step inside the 85 m2 residence and discover three bedrooms, a warm and welcoming open-plan layout combining the kitchen, dining, and lounge area - perfect for modern living. A cosy woodburner keeps the home toasty in cooler months, while gas heats the water efficiently. Underfoot, you'll find a charming mix of native wood flooring and carpet, adding both style and comfort throughout. Enjoy seamless indoor-outdoor flow with an attached deck - ideal for entertaining or soaking up the sun - while the fully fenced section provides peace of mind for kids and pets. Completing the picture is a single, unattached garage for added storage or secure parking. Whether you're a first-home buyer, downsizer, or investor, this well-located property is packed with potential. Don't miss your chance to make it your own.
Te Kuiti 80 King Street West
TE KUITI 26 Tammadge Street
A Commanding Lifestyle in Town - 6.3 hectares
In an elevated position above Tammadge Street, is a lifestyle property like no other on the market. Its northwest facing outlook pays homage to the stunning autumnal vista across Te Kuiti with breathtaking views of Brook Park. The two-storey fourbedroom family home was architecturally designed and built using quality materials. The land is in two titles. The house, set of yards, kill shed and chiller all sit on the bigger parcel of land which is 5.91hectares (more or less). The smaller title is 3922m2. There are seven paddocks in total. Close to town, schooling and recreational activities.
pggwre.co.nz/TEK39774
NEW LISTING
OTEWA Bush Road Adventure - Lifestyle - Investment
$640,000
WAITOMO Waitomo Caves Road
Prime Supplement and Grazing - Waitomo 22.1535 hectares (more or less) located just 3km East of the iconic Waitomo Glowworm Caves. This bare block is currently being used for maize and silage production and winter cow grazing. Easy rolling land ideal for grazing and cropping. It is post and batten fenced on the roadside and sides and has a two wire electric fence along the river boundary, new solar pump and panel, and submersible pump. Strong fertiliser history.
This is a well located fertile property. Its proximity to a major tourist destination offers potential for future diversification or lifestyle development.
pggwre.co.nz/TEK41810
and 31
This one of a kind property is 36.4ha (more or less) with approx 8ha of easy rolling pastural land fenced to a high standard. Stunning northern views from the proposed elevated house site, looking out to Mt Pirongia and Kakepuku.
The adventure/investment includes 11.5ha of 2021 planted pine trees, 9.5ha of 2022 planted pine trees and balance of native bush. Of the 21ha in pine trees, approx 15ha is registered under ETS. All forestry is in second rotation (harvested 2018 & 2019), tracks and skid sites are well established. Conveniently located approx 14km from Otorohanga and 16km from Te Kūiti.
pggwre.co.nz/TEK41854
NEW LISTING
WAITOMO Waitomo Caves Road
Rare Opportunity - Prime Bare Land
Just 3.5km from the world-famous Waitomo Caves, this exceptional 6.6 hectare (more or less) property offers a unique chance to own a slice of paradise in the heart of New Zealand’s scenic countryside. Multiple elevated building sites provide 360-degree picture-perfect vistas of rolling rural landscapes and distant horizons. The rich, fertile soil opens the door to a wide range of land use options – from lifestyle farming to eco-tourism ventures or your dream home retreat. Don’t miss out on this one-of-a-kind opportunity to build your future in a location that blends natural beauty, convenience
pggwre.co.nz/TEK41901
TENDER Plus GST (if any) (Unless Sold Prior) Closes 4.00pm, Friday 15 August VIEW 10.00-11.00am Thursday 17, 24 & 31 July
TE MAURI O MANIAPOTO
SPECIAL HUI
RE: TE KURA KAUMĀTUA
ELECTION 2025
A special meeting has been called to elect and recommend the Te Kura Kaumātua Trustee to the Te Nehenehenui Trust board.
Date: Wednesday, 13 August 2025
Time: 10am
Location: Matawhaiora tari, 49 Taupiri Street, Te Kūiti NOMINATIONS NOW OPEN
• Must be registered on the Maniapoto Membership Register
• Must be aged 65 +
Send nominations to patai@tnn.co.nz. Nominations close 9.30am, Wednesday 13th August 2025.
Kio Kio Primary School TEACHER AIDE WANTED
Part-Time | Fixed Term – Term 3 & 4
• ORS-Funded Support
2 days per week (10 hours)
• General Classroom Support
2 days per week (8 hours)
Kio Kio School is seeking a calm, caring, and proactive Teacher Aide to support a student with additional learning needs, as well as provide general assistance across classrooms.
This part-time position involves working closely with staff to provide consistent, student-focused support in both classroom and playground settings. Experience supporting diverse learners is an advantage, but full training and guidance will be provided.
If you’re passionate about helping tamariki thrive, we’d love to hear from you!
To apply or request an application pack, please contact: Pip Were – principal@kiokio.school.nz
Applications close: Sunday, 20th July
CALF REARER WANTED
We require a calf rearer to rear calves on our 650 cow dairy farm 5km north of Te Kūiti.
Starting mid July trough till September.
Phone 021 745 710
Specialising in
King St East, Te Kūiti AGM
We welcome all members to attend the 58th Annual General Meeting Sunday, July 20, 2025
Doors open 10am Meeting starts 11am sharp
of officers Club
TEACHER AIDE WANTED
25 HOURS A WEEK
Do you want to work in a collaborative environment?
We have a teacher aide position to support a student with health needs in our new entrant class. There will be training provided. For the right applicant(s) there is the possibility of job sharing. If you are interested please email principal@ppp.school.nz
Applications close on 24/6/25 at 3pm. Start date is 14th July 2025.
HANDYMAN
Property maintenance and construction Lawns,trees,stumpgrinding,sections,moss&mould treatments,Chemwash,waterblasting,guttervac, watertankandtroughcleaning fences,retaining,oddjobsandmore. Referencesavailable GSTregistered.
Mike & Allana 027 350 0836 – info@handy-man.co.nz
Septic Tank Cleaning
• Emptying septic tanks
• CCTV pipeline inspection
• Jetting drainage pipelines
• Spreading animal effluent
Waitomo Liquid Waste Disposal 021 111 3911
OF MASS AND/OR SPEED LIMITS ON BRIDGES Regulation11,HeavyMotorVehicleRegulations1974
NOTICEisherebygiventhatpursuanttoregulation11(3)oftheHeavyMotorVehicle Regulations 1974, Ōtorohanga District Council has fixed the following maximum mass and speed limits for heavy motor vehicles and combinations including a heavy motor vehicle on the bridges described hereunder:
ŌTOROHANGA DISTRICT COUNCIL BRIDGES
PUBLIC NOTICES
Section 101, Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012
PUBLIC NOTICE
Of an application for Off Licence
TK 2019 Limited of 89 Rora St Te Kuiti (Retailer) has made application to the District Licensing Committee at Waitomo for the renewal of an Off Licence in respect of the premises situated at 89 Rora Street, Te Kuiti known as Super Liquor Te Kuiti. The general nature of the business conducted is a bottle shop. The days on which, and the hours during which liquor is intended to be sold under the licence, are Monday to Sunday 9am to 10pm
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 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 wishes to object to the issue of the licence may, not later than 25 working days from 3rd July 2025, 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. This is the second publication of this notice. The first notice was published on 03/07/2025.
Proposal for temporary closure of road/street to ordinary vehicular traffic
PURSUANT to the Local Government Act 1974 (Schedule 10) Regulations 1974, notice is hereby given that the Waitomo District Council, for the purpose of the Waitomo Rally proposes to temporarily close the following roads/streets to ordinary vehicular traffic for the periods indicated:
Waitomo Rally event 2025
Date: Sunday 21 September 2025
Period of Closure: 9am to 5pm Streets/Roads: Kumara Road, Waitewhena Road, Ohura Road, Kaeaea Road, Matiere Road, Oniao Road, Owen Road, Kohua Road, Tikitiki Road.
Intersections affected: Paraheka Road, Parakoko Road, Keighley Road, Ohura Road, Matiere Road, Mokauiti Road, Kohua Road, Ngatamahine Road, Rauriki Road, Kaitaringa Road, Tikitiki Road, Sargents Road.
Alternative routes: No alternative routes are provided and access is restricted as per information provided to affected residents.
Any person objecting to the proposal is called upon to lodge notice of objection and grounds thereof in writing, before 5pm on Monday 4 August 2025 at the office of Waitomo District Council, 15 Queen Street, Te Kūiti.
Ben Smit Chief Executive
LIVESTOCK WANTED
Ph or Txt 027 540 1754.
Te Kūiti Amateur
Te Kuiti Pipe Band Hall
William St, Te Kūiti
All members and Life members welcome to attend
GOATS WANTED
Will buy or muster feral goats Prompt pick up and payment Ph Gavin 027 877
REVELL, Sean Peter –1981 – 2025. As a result of an accident, on Monday, June 30, 2025, aged 44 years. Loved fiancé of Beah. Loved father to the three musketeers Troy, Daniel and Leo, and special friend of Millie. Treasured son of Sylvia and the late Pedro. Much loved brother and brother-in-law to Jason & Kerrianne, Maggie & Greg, Peta-Maree the late Daniel. Uncle to Arlo. A service to celebrate Sean’s life has been held. Messages to the Revell Family can be sent C/- 262 Ohaupo Road, Te Awamutu 3800 or in Sean’s online tribute book at www. rosetown.co.nz
“Missed and loved, H.F.M.”
“Fisherman at heart”
SIMPSON, Yvonne (Evie) Agnes
Passed away 5 July 2023, aged 71years young. Sadly, missed by her daughters Shay-Lee, Laura and Carrie. Evie remains in our hearts forever.
Mother
“What a wonderful Friend –a Mother. Others can love you but only your Mother understands. She works for you, loves you, forgives you anything that you may do. Understands you, and the blessedness of her peaceful presence is never fully realised until she is called away”
DAVISON Maxwell (Graham) – Peacefully at Beattie Home, Otorohanga, with family by his side, on Saturday, July 5, 2025. Much loved husband of Rosemary. Dearly loved father of Thomas, Sally, Ben and Katie, and their families. A service for Graham has be held followed by cremation. The Davison family would like to thank the staff at Beattie Home for their wonderful care of Graham over the years. All communications to Davison Family C/- PO Box 241, Te Kuiti 3941. In the care of VJ Williams & Sons, Funeral Directors Association of NZ
DAVISON Maxwell “Graham” – At Beattie Home Ōtorohanga on Saturday July 5, 2025. Loved brother of George (deceased) Neville Otewa Road, Jan Cameron Auckland and all his nieces and nephews. Rest in peace.
PULLAN, Rob 11/7/2024
Happy memories that we shared together will be with me forever. Love always, Your loving wife.
A Farewell with Heart
Every life deserves a meaningful farewell. Our compassionate, professional, and dedicated team is here to help, offering care and understanding when it matters most. Call us anytime – we’re here for you.
Jim Goddin Funeral Director
FIREWOOD for sale – Dry shed stored gum, lawson, mac mix. $110 per cube, delivery included.
