Logo petition launched
By Chris Gardner
A founding member of Ōtorohanga’s Project Kiwiana group has spoken of the moment he discovered the council had replaced its kiwi logo with a nest logo also known as Te Ōhanga.
“For the council to throw away the impact of Kiwiana came as a real kick in the guts,” said Murray Loewenthal.
Loewenthal has signed a petition asking the Ōtorohanga District Council to revisit its decision.
Names on the petition are being collected by Brian Pitts-Brown and it is being promoted by retired Waitomo News publisher Frances Rawlings.
Project Kiwiana, launched in 1999, led the transformation of the King Country town into New Zealand’s official Kiwiana Town endorsed by the then Prime Minister.
“We got a letter from Helen Clarke that said Ōtorohanga is the Kiwi town of New Zealand. Why would you go away from that? The thing that they have got now looks like a wreath,” Loewenthal said.
He recalled the Project Kiwiana team even organised a community parade with Sir Edmund Hillary at its centre just over 20 years ago.
Councillors voted to adopt the council’s 2024-34 Long Term Plan logo, Te Ōhanga or The Nest, as the council’s sole logo last December at the recommendation of council communication and engagement manager Helen Williams.
“Prior to the development of the LTP, the Kiwi logo was council’s only visual representation, but there was no distinct brand or style to support this logo, for example a colour palette, consistent font, design or unified
language,” Williams said in the report.
“The introduction of Te Ōhanga and associated branding came through the design for council’s long term plan.
The overarching brand ‘Weaving the Future – Kotahitanga’ represents council’s focus on community wellbeing, relationships and making Ōtorohanga District an even better place to live, work, and enjoyKotahitanga meaning unity.”
But instead of unifying the district, the decision left many long-term residents opposed to the change.
Councillor Roy Johnson voted against adopting the nest logo because he felt it would do disservice to Otorohanga Kiwi House.
Loewenthal was concerned the decision was staff driven, rather than councillor driven.
Former community board member and councillor Andrew Ormsby has also signed the petition.
“I was shocked about the process,” he said.
The way the decision was relayed to the public has also drawn criticism. Ormsby learned about the change through The News.
“I found out well after the decision had been made, much later on, I was shocked,” he said. “There’s been a lack of respect for the people who have committed to build our town brand.”
He suggested the town might wish to begin a fundraiser to restore the old logo.
Ōtorohanga mayor Max Baxter maintains the council’s decision to adopt a single corporate logo has been misunderstood as it does not detract from the town’s Kiwiana theme.
The petition is expected to be presented at the council’s July 29 meeting.
Murray Loewenthal, right, and Andrew Ormsby are among those who have signed the petition. Photo Chris Gardner. Inset: Old and new – the Kiwi inspired logo which has been replaced by the nest.
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Project’s old school ties
By Jon Rawlinson
A new film centred on Hamilton’s Fairfield College has deep connections spanning the Waikato, Waipā and King Country.
Telling the story of Fairfield College, ‘Kukutaaruhe – Ngā
Taonga Tuku Iho’ - treasures of the past - explores bonds between the school, the people and the land.
An advance screening was held at the college ahead of Matariki.
Film maker Robbie Neha, a former Fairfield College head boy and former board member based in Ōtorohanga has had more than 35 years’ experience in film and television.
“I always wanted to tell this story,” Neha said. “It’s about the school but also Ngāti Wairere. I was honoured when Richard contacted me.”
Principal Richard Crawford said he was inspired to contact Neha and historian Wiremu Puke after encountering cultural narratives in Alaska and Canada during a sabbatical.
“The school was opened in 1957, so I thought it was about time we put something on video to acknowledge the land where the school sits and especially to pay tribute to Ngāti Wairere, the mana whenua – it’s an acknowledgement of their narratives,” Crawford said.
“It’s a story about the school but also the land and where we hope to be in future by making it more sustainable, raising consciousness of this for our community.”
This message brings urban biodiversity and gully restoration initiative, The Fairfield Project, into frame.
The project has been responsible for planting more than 31,000 trees across the Kukutaaruhe Gully.
“The project featured quite strongly in the film – it’s an important part because it’s about the land and how we’re going to preserve it.”
The documentary will soon
be accessible through the Fairfield College website.
Past and present students of the college feature on screen and behind the scenes. Puke and Neha, both Ngāti Wairere, were instrumental, Crawford said.
“Wiremu was critical in making sure what we were showing was culturally appropriate and accurate. It couldn’t have happened without him or without Robbie because of his ideas and production skills.”
‘Kukutaaruhe – Ngā Taonga Tuku Iho’ could encourage other schools to explore and share their history and ties to mana whenua on film.
“It certainly wasn’t my intention, but I hope it does motivate others,” Neha said. There are many more schools across our towns and districts, so I certainly hope that there will be more.”
Neha has worked in numerous governance roles including as the Taarewaanga Marae representative on the Ōtorohanga Kiwi House Trust and as a committee member of the Pirongia Heritage and Information Centre.
Guests at the centre’s recent annual meeting heard Neha discuss filmmaking, whakapapa and history.
Neha is well known for his
Test win in the shears
By Jon Rawlinson
New Zealand shearers have secured wins against England and France in the latest legs of the Wools of New Zealand test series.
Te Kūiti clipper Jack Fagan and Northland’s Toa Henderson defeated a French pair at the French Shears in Boussac on Sunday.
Henderson and Fagan also finished first and second in the Open final and their positions were reversed in the speed shear. Victory in France follows a test win for the Kiwis across the channel at the Great Yorkshire Show four days earlier. Fagan and Henderson defeated England’s Nick Greaves and Dean Nelmes by 4.3 points in Harrogate.
books and documentaries about the New Zealand Wars, including works in collaboration with University of Waikato professor and News columnist Tom Roa, and Corey Wilson.
Ensuring Māori voices feature in history was essential, Neha said.
“Many of our historical books were written by colonials – some would say ‘to the victors go the spoils’. We’ve referred to James Cowan’s writing, among others, which is all part of being a good researcher, but we’ve also done our own research. We’ve documented, recorded and captured what our tūpuna told us.”
‘Ōrākau, Ka Aowhia Te Rangi – A Rich History poorly known’ concentrates on the final battle of the Waikato War, the scene of Rewi Maniapoto’s last stand and recalls the infamous attack on the peaceful settlement of Rangiaowhia near Kihikihi.
Another book, by Neha’s aunt Dr Kahu McClintock, ‘E Paa Too Hau – Softly blows the wind’, was released in February to mark the anniversary of Rangiaowhia.
“It was lovely to share Ngāti Wairere’s history of Rangiaowhia, of the place, not the conflict, so future generations can understand it,” Neha said.
“It was good to have a win with Toa,” Fagan said soon after the July 9 test. “Both of us shore really well and we’re looking forward to the three tests in Wales.”
In the show’s Yorkshire Open final, defending champion Fagan was second to Welsh shearer Gethin Lewis with Henderson in third.
The duo is now set to compete against Wales at Cothi on Saturday, the Royal Welsh Show on July 23 and the Corwen Shears on July 26.
Letters…
Water decision
Last week Gordon Walker raised pertinent questions about the decision by Waitomo District Council to join five others to form a Waikato regional water organisation.
As he surmises, the decision of these Councils to put water services and assets into a regional entity is a result of signals from Wellington. That said, this move makes sense. Scale is especially important to deliver efficiencies and better outcomes with capital intensive water infrastructure.
Mr. Walker is mistaken, however, in saying that Waitomo ratepayers will fork out “...up to $16 million to join this company”. There is no membership fee. The $16 million is an estimate of the set-up costs for the regional company so that it is up and running from July 1, 2026. All six shareholding Councils will be called upon to cover this funding, of which Waitomo’s share is 5 per cent. This money will be lent by the councils, to be repaid by the new entity once it is operational.
Like Mr. Walker, I am aware of the risks around this set up stage. Rest assured that I am actively engaged with the five other mayors monitoring matters as this transition takes place.
John Robertson Mayor of Waitomo
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Fairfield College principal, Richard Crawford with city councillor Sarah Thomson and filmmaker, Robbie Neha attended an advance screening of a new film about Fairfield College.
Walkway to open
The blessing and opening of the Mangaokewa Walkway cultural storyboards will start at the top of Motakiora, Te Kumi Road, Te Kūiti next Tuesday. Nine areas and the history relating to them and Ngāti Rōrā have been documented on large storyboards along walkway. Each story has been captured in in text, audio and visually using photos and drone footage.
Dow sorry
District councillor Rodney Dow said sorry at an Ōtorohanga Reserves Strategy and Reserves Management Plan hearing after suggesting mana whenua could buy land to house a truck wash facility they want removed from Huipūtea reserve. Mana whenua representative to the council Wikitōria Tane said most of the land in Ōtorohanga was Māori land and had been taken from Māori. Dow responded that he didn’t mean to suggest mana whenua buy land.
Waikeria costs
The Department of Corrections says the cost for the 21-hectare Waikeria Prison building project is $1.2 billion. The cost comprises the public private project agreement with Cornerstone Infrastructure Partners for the design, construction and financing of the facility, and asset management and facilities maintenance for 25 years, the department said in an Official Information Act response to a Good Local Media question.
Corrections
In the story about Otewa children competing at the AgriKids final last week, we spelt Sam Bluett’s incorrectly In our June 26 issue story about June Douglas’ 100th birthday, she was pictured with three of her four children, not four. They were Gabrielle Emery, Grant Douglas and Ann Roberts Crocombe. The News apologises for the errors.
Merger calls grow
By Mary Anne Gill
It’s a tale of two councils –Waipā and Waitomo. One ranks third-highest in the country for rate increases at 15.5 per cent, while the other sits near the bottom at just 2.91 per cent.
The stark contrast in performance has prompted calls from groups like the Taxpayers’ Union and the Waikato Chamber of Commerce for council amalgamations to spread costs and keep rates in check.
Waikato Chamber chief executive Don Good said the 20-44 per cent increases “beggars belief” and would significantly affect voter sentiment in the upcoming local body elections.
Mayors Susan O’Regan (Waipā) and John Robertson (Waitomo), lead councils that have faced three years of unprecedented financial challenges, including high inflation, ageing infrastructure, water reforms and soaring debt.
Waipā has cut nearly $200 million of costs out of its
Long Term Plan in a bid to find savings.
But O’Regan says the issue goes beyond individual councils.
“It’s bigger than that, it’s looking at the whole of this sector and how it is structured and funded and where those shortcomings are,” said O’Regan.
“Anybody that promises rate suppression really fails to understand the situation we’re in as a sector and as a country around the need for infrastructure renewal.”
According to the Taxpayers’ Union, the average council rates increase across New Zealand for 2025 is 8.39 per cent, while Waipā’s three-year cumulative increase of 40.55 per cent is described as “staggering and unsustainable.”
Local Government campaigns manager Sam Warren said councils like Waipā, Hamilton and Waikato used growth as a smokescreen to justify excessive spending and pass the burden onto ratepayers.
“Councils are gaslighting
Rates on the rise
1: 2025-26
those already struggling to get by,” he said.
Robertson sees the upcoming water reforms as a catalyst for necessary mergers, particularly between Waitomo and Ōtorohanga.
“When we lose water, we lose 20-25 per cent of our business. You can’t keep the overheads.”
Waitomo, once one of the most debt-ridden councils in the country, is projected to have similar debt levels to Ōtorohanga, making amalgamation a practical necessity.
Robertson, a former member of Parliament, mayor of Papakura and local government commissioner acknowledged the government’s water reforms could be seen by some councils as “mergers by stealth.”
O’Regan said councils would need to reassess their situations next term.
Waipā is likely to transfer its drinking and wastewater infrastructure to a councilcontrolled organisation called Waikato Water Done Well comprising Ōtorohanga, Hauraki, South Waikato, Matamata-Piako and Waitomo.
“Water reform will prompt a lot of councils to consider what the future for local government of the rest of council looks like. If that’s not a discussion then you don’t understand what the position is in the sector,” said O’Regan.
“If you’re not prepared to contemplate what local government could look like going forward, you’re misunderstanding the memo.
“You have to look at how we can deliver better and more efficient, cost effective services to our community.”
She cited Waikato Regional Airport and Co Lab – a council-owned initiative to find shared opportunities - as successful examples of collaboration.
“Waikato Water Done well in and of itself is an example of excellent inter district collaboration.
“I would like to think we would be mature enough to have a discussion about how the future of that representation and delivery of services could be created for our collective communities and at the same time not lose that local voice and expression and sense of place.”
Robertson said his council had “stripped back” costs to avoid insolvency, a situation that once led the Productivity Commission to label it the worst-performing council in the country.
Good said the performances of Waitomo and Waikato Regional Council – its 2025 increase is 5.7 per cent and 19.65 per cent over three years – were acceptable premiums for growth.
“Business accepts inflation increases but objects to paying two to three times inflation for the same service.
“Double or even triple above inflation means voters will vote with their wallets for more business like financially prudent candidates,” he said.
“It is time for accountability and real change. This is the year voters need to vote.”
Susan O’Regan
Don Good
Sam Warren
John Robertson
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LGNZ goes eight down
By Mary Anne Gill
Waikato Regional Council has become the eighth council in two years to withdraw from Local Government New Zealand (LGNZ), the national advocacy body for local authorities.
As a consequence, chair Pamela Storey was not at the LGNZ annual conference which kicked off yesterday in Christchurch.
Waikato Regional Council voted 6–5 to exit LGNZ and save an annual $122,000 membership fee.
The councils follow in the footsteps of Auckland – on mayor Wayne Brown’s casting vote, Kaipara District, Christchurch City, the West Coast Regional, Grey District, Westland District and Western Bay of Plenty District councils.
Waikato Regional Council strategy and policy chair Warren Maher said LGNZ focussed too much on district issues and took a left-leaning approached that hindered cooperation with central government.
Representatives from, Ōtorohanga, Waitomo, Matamata-Piako, Hamilton, Waipā, Hauraki and Waikato district were booked in for the conference this week. Ōtorohanga mayor
Max Baxter and his deputy Annette Williams, who are both standing down at this year’s local government elections, chief executive Tanya Winter, and councillors Katrina Christison and Jaimee Tamaki were all attending the conference.
Waitomo mayor John Robertson said he and chief executive Ben Smit would be at the conference but no other elected members or staff.
Neither Waipā nor Waitomo elected members had formally discussed leaving LGNZ. However, Robertson said he was concerned at the lack of engagement between central and local government.
“It’s not new,” the former MP for Papakura said. “I recall when I was mayor of Papakura, and we met with then prime minister Helen Clark. It was a terse relationship.”
Central and local government needed to work together but local decisions were best made locally, said Robertson.
O’Regan said her council had not discussed whether to continue belonging to LGNZ.
The conference this year was a “pared back” event reflecting economic
conditions but still featured a wide range of speakers and sessions.
The conference included a Women in Local Government breakfast yesterday followed by a speech via video from prime minister Christopher Luxon. Local Government and Resource Management Reform and Infrastructure ministers Simon Watt and Chris Bishop were to speak on powering the economy.2
Other breakout sessions included what councils needed to know about Māori wards and constituencies, unlocking the Māori economy, the role of local government in the changing landscape and managing community facility projects.
Deputy prime minister David Seymour was to speak this morning before a session on driving efficiencies and productivity.
Pamela Storey
Sound advice from Nick
By Jon Rawlinson
Ōtorohanga-raised Nick Jones returned to his former home town recently with a most welcome message for parents.
“Parents have a lot of fears and uncertainty if their child has hearing problems, including how they’re going to live in the real world when they’re older,” he told The News. “So, it’s great to be able to assure them that it’s all going to be fine and their children can go on to do anything they like.
He should know – he was diagnosed as profoundly deaf in his infancy, The now 33-year old was fitted with a Cochlear implant as an infant.
Now an audiologist for The Hearing House, he has been providing hearing checks through a mobile clinic in Cambridge and Ōtorohanga this week.
“Giving back what I was given, knowing that I’m making a big difference in people’s lives, is so rewarding.”
Launched in September, The Hearing House mobile unit is a purpose-built hearing lab on wheels.
“It’s like a campervan but inside it’s soundproofed, we have two clinicians and all the equipment we need including a testing booth. We can reach out to people who can’t make it up to Auckland.”
With internal and external components, Cochlear implants
(CI) bypass parts of the inner ear, stimulating the auditory nerve with electrical signals. They improve hearing in most cases, Nick said.
“Sometimes they’re not recommended but if people are medically suitable then there’s no reason why not. Hearing can
improve significantly after an implant for 99 per cent of the people we see.”
Even with a CI, there are challenges.
“The CI has helped me, but it doesn’t mean my hearing is perfect – there are still instances when I struggle to hear, if there’s
background noise or a big group of people, for example,” Nick said.
But help is available.
“I was lucky to have one-onone support from Anna McKey, a teacher aide at Ōtorohanga South School. She’s a compassionate and intelligent lady who made sure I was up to speed with my learning.
Receiving her support throughout my early years was invaluable.”
Another Ōtorohanga South School teacher has been in Nick’s corner even longer. It’s his mum Barbara.
Initially, Nick’s family did not notice the warning signs, Barbara said.
“He was such a switched on kid, good at responding to visual and vibration cues, so we didn’t pick up on it at first. Then, John, my father-in-law, said he thought there might be something wrong –we’re so grateful to him for that.”
Implants can be fitted on children aged as young as six months. As the technology was new when Nick was diagnosed, Barbara was advised to wait and try communicating with her son using sign language first.
“When we started signing to him, it was like a dam broke. He was so eager to communicate, but I was like the interpreter between him and the world, so it wasn’t ideal.”
Aged three, Nick became one of the first children born deaf in New Zealand to receive an implant. Since then, Barbara said her son has been an inspiration.
“It’s made a huge difference in his life,” she said. “Having experienced the shock of being told my child had profound hearing loss, I know how reassuring Nick’s story and his work must be for other parents. I’m so proud of him.”
Inside The Hearing House mobile unit, from left, board member David Welch and audiologists Bri Putnam and Nick Jones
mangaokewa Walkway Cultural Storyboards Community Invitation
Official opening and blessing
Tuesday 22 July 2025 from 10am, Te Kūiti
Please note, there are nine separate sites to visit and times are approximate.
10am - Site 1
Top of Mōtakiora
Te Kumi Road, Te Kūiti
10.30am - Site 2
Base/Entrance of Mōtakiora
Te Kumi Road, Te Kūiti
11.15am - Site 3
Te Tokanganui a Noho (Te Kūiti Pā)
Awakino Road, Te Kūiti
11.45am - Site 4
He Wāhi Herenga Waka (Waka Landing)
SH30
12.15pm - Site 5
The Original Site of Te Tokanganui a Noho
Beginning of walkway track at Inframax entrance, Waitete Road, Te Kūiti
1pm - Site 6
The Second Site of Te Tokanganui a Noho
At first bridge along walkway (this site requires a little walking to get to)
1.45pm - Site 7
Taupiri o Te Rangi
Mangaokewa walkway
(this site requires a little walking to get to)
2.30pm - Site 8
Tumutumu
Mangaokewa walkway
(this site requires a little walking to get to)
3.15pm - Site 9
Mangaokewa Reserve
SH30
This is the final site and where we will have kai
If affected by weather, the alternate date is Thursday 24 July 2025
ON SHAKY GROUND
How much lava?
By Janine Krippner
When it comes to volcanic eruptions, people love numbers, especially big ones. The largest eruption in 20 years, the highest ash plume in our lifetime, the most terrifying pyroclastic flows - these make great headlines.
But behind these impressive figures lies a lot of careful work to measure, verify, and confirm what actually happened.
One measure of the size of an eruption is the Volcanic Explosivity Index (VEI). As soon as an eruption begins, estimates start circulating, often stated as fact. This looks at the amount of material that was erupted, and ash plume heights, so this is not calculated until an eruption has ended.
To calculate volume, how much magma was erupted in total, as well as the breakdown into ash (pulverized rock), lava flows, or pyroclastic flows, can be a bit tricky and generally takes a mix of field work, computing power, expertise, and time.
It is important to understand the eruption volumes of past events so that we can understand what future scenarios might look like. To explain how we calculate the volume of lava produced during an eruption, I am sitting in Tenerife with Sergio Alfaya, who is working with me at GeoTenerife. Sergio has calculated lava volumes for past eruptions across the island of Tenerife, as well as the 2021 La Palma eruption.
One challenge with lava flows compared to other volcanic processes is that it entirely buries the landscape. The La Palma lava flow field (made up of many individual lava flows erupted over the three-month period) reaches around 75-100 metres thick in places. To put that into perspective, the typical height of a room is about 2.5 metres high.
We have to “reconstruct” what the landscape looks like before the lava covered it. For recent eruptions we can compare before-and-after satellite data, but for older eruptions we don’t have that luxury. For those we have to rely on historical maps and imagery to build a mathematical model of the pre-eruption terrain.
We use satellite imagery and drone data to capture the surface detail of the lava flows. With these datasets, we can compute how much lava now buries the landscape.
The La Palma eruption is the first in the Canary Islands to have high-quality data from both before and after the eruption. Researchers like Sergio can use this to refine their volume calculations and validate or test their methods.
The final result? The La Palma lava flow measures approximately 177 million cubic meters (m³). If we think of a dump truck typically carrying 10-14 m3 per load, it would take about 14 million truckloads to move that much lava. For another comparison, building Auckland’s Sky Tower required around 15,000 m³ of concrete. La Palma’s lava flow field is more than 11,000 times that volume.
Understanding the lava flow volumes from past eruptions allows us to run simulations of eruptions across different locations to see where they would go, and what the impacts to communities would be. Each step, from data collection to computer modelling, takes careful consideration and testing so that our science can be used to inform decisions and protect lives.
TALKING ECONOMICS
Penalising the young
By Peter Nicholl
A colleague recently sent me an article by a former Secretary of the Treasury on the problems in the tax system and recommendations for change.
Among other things, he wanted “a tax system that does not disadvantage younger people who are in the work force”. He said the “lazy reliance on bracket creep to bring the budget back to anything approaching balance is doing enormous damage to younger people in particular”.
The thing I found sad and worrying about these comments was that the person was actualy talking about the Australian income tax sytstem. But the New Zealand income tax system is even more biased against young and low-paid workers.
The tax brackets in New Zealand were introduced in 2010. Since then our average income has risen by over 70 per cent while the tax brackets stayed the same. It’s a great system for the Government as their tax take rises steadily without them appearing to increase taxes. But that is exactly what the government is doing. The Australian commentator called it a ‘lazy system’. You could also call it a sneaky and underhand way of raising taxes.
The Australian system also has an initial income tranche on which the tax rate is zero – up to $18,200. We used to have a zero tax income tranche too - I am not sure when it disappeared.
Someone working part-time in Australia, possibly while studying, and earning up to $18,200 would pay no income tax. Someone doing the same thing in here would pay just over $2000. Someone earning $50,000
a year here would pay around $7650 in tax while the person earning the same amount in Australia would pay just over $6000.
It seems we have sleep-walked into a situation where young people earn lower incomes in New Zealand than in Australia but pay higher taxes on that income. It should not surprise us that many young people are crossing the Tasman. Two other features of our tax system also make it more regressive than the Australian system, penalising young people further. We raise around 30 per cent of our tax revenue from GST. In Australia, GST is about 12 per cent of tax revenue. GST is a regressive tax as low-income people typically spend a larger proportion of their income on consumption. We are also is one of the few OECD countries that does not have a capital gains tax. Australia’s capital gains taxes are not heavy – I think they raise just under 10 per cent of the Federal Government’s revenue. The hesitation and nervousness amongst politicians here to even discuss this issue can only be described as an abdication of responsibility. There have been recent surveys where a majority of respondents supported some form of capital gains tax as most taxpayers can see that the problems we have with infrastructure investment and superannuation entitlemnents which will sink the current tax system unless the tax base is broadened. The leadership on this issue is coming from the people, not from the politicians.
Val was an RSA trailblazer
By Viv Posselt
Talk to anyone about Val Brett and you’ll find she was known as particularly diligent and organised, an irrepressibly ‘no-nonsense’ contributor to her community. What is probably less known is
the fact that Val, who died recently aged 84, was believed to be the first female president of any New Zealand RSA.
The former Royal New Zealand Air Force servicewoman held the reins at Te Kuiti’s RSA twice – once from 2005 to 2010, and again from 2012 to 2018, and was awarded a life membership.
While 2005 might seem relatively recent for a woman to have filled the top slot, it speaks to the norms long associated with returned services organisations in many countries.
Val’s contribution was said to have been well beyond duty.
Even when struggling with illness in later years, she ensured all RSA members in the area were being well looked after, and for as long as possible she remained proactive in helping with Anzac Day and Poppy Day arrangements.
Such was Te Kuiti’s regard for her, that Val was among six residents honoured by the Waitomo District Council in 2021 when she was presented with a Lifetime Achievement Award.
The citation noted her ‘outstanding community focus’ through her involvement in community projects and initiatives that made a significant difference in the district.
It noted her 30 years’ involvement with the RSA and
said: “Attention to detail and making sure things were done the right way is Val’s speciality, and over her years of service, Val has been an important mentor for many members of Te Kuiti RSA, particularly the younger generation.”
Val’s daughter Michelle Freebairn said her mum had been a widow for many years having lost her husband Dave Brett to an accident in 1985. Val moved to Te Kuiti after that, purchasing a house then bravely sitting and passing her driver’s licence at age 48 and buying her first car.
Val went on to work at various outlets, including Te Kuiti Craft Supplies, Mayfair Dairy, New World, Waitomo News, as well as for the NZ Census and local body elections. She also volunteered for years at the citizen’s advice information centre, and more recently was a regular volunteer at second-hand shops.
“She was passionate about handcrafts, and dabbled in most things,” said Michelle, “including patchwork, knitting, crochet and sewing, but embroidery was her passion.”
Dave Brett’s father, the late Reg Brett, was well known in Ōtorohanga for the many years he devoted to Hato Hone St John – so much so that one of the town’s parks, the Reg Brett Reserve,
carries his name.
Val and Dave met at a dance in Hamilton and married in 1962.
Dave was the drummer in a band called The Jayaires, and Val joined as a vocalist. They played at dances around the King County during the 1960s and 1970s.
Former Waitomo District Mayor Brian Hanna, who was also presented with a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2021, said he had been saddened to hear of
Val’s passing.
“I shared a long association with Val when I was Waitomo mayor and Val was RSA president. She took her role very seriously and wanted everything well planned and well organised for the annual Anzac Day commemorations. I occasionally got a telling off if that didn’t happen, or I suggested something different,” he said. “Val was a passionate RSA president, and I considered her a good friend.
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Val Brett during her early air force years.
Photo: supplied
The late Val Brett is believed to be the first woman elected as president of a New Zealand RSA.
Photo: supplied
Bowlers on the mats
By Jon Rawlinson
Te Kūiti’s Gallagher Recreation Centre will host the one of a series of interprovincial indoor bowls championships over the weekend.
Bowlers from 33 centres will compete, including eight in Division 4 North at Te Kūiti.
“We are looking forward to a stern challenge from all the centres coming to the event,” Paul Walker told The News.
“There will be some stiff competition and camaraderie – among participants and supporters – during a great weekend of bowls.”
In addition to King Country players, competitors from North Harbour, Thames Valley, Taranaki, Hawkes Bay, Wanganui, Horowhenua and Bush Ruahine will all be in action.
Each centre will be represented by eight players in two teams of four playing singles, pairs and fours.
The winning centre from the Te Kūiti tournament will go on the play the Division 4 South winners.
The King Country teams are A: Blue Hancock, John Whitehead, Warren Davis and Lyn Martin, B: Kevin Marshall, Mary Anne Tanfield, Bruce Grace and Paul Walker
Stars can tinkle, tinkle
By Viv Posselt
Waitomo mayor John Robertson has welcomed the first street piano to Te Kuiti, saying he thinks people stopping to tinkle the ivories will be great for the community.
The piano, which is rolled out daily in front of Rora Street’s Te Kuiti Op Shop, is one restored by Ōtorohanga’s piano man, Remko Pootjes.
His desire to save and restore unwanted pianos saw him set up The Remiano Charitable Trust in 2024 as a registered charity supporting ‘Pianos for Kids’. Some he has saved have been turned into street pianos and others used as bespoke display units in shops. Funds from those leases or sponsors go into funding free piano lessons for kids.
The Te Kuiti piano has been in place for a few months, but it was only recently that a purposemade cover was fitted to the piano to protect it and make it easily recognisable to
passers-by. It was at that ceremonial ‘dressing of the piano’ that Robertson commented, saying he had seen street pianos work well for the community during his time in Papakura.
The piano’s new cover, crafted by Susan Sands of Creative Spaces and others in the community, is made up of over 300 differentsized knitted and crocheted squares.
Te Kuiti Op Shop
“Very
Thank you.” Aaron Pendergast —
owner Antonio Ashby was delighted when Pootjes approached him to ask whether he’d be keen to have the piano at his outlet. Pootjes said his ‘Pianos for Kids’ mission was building well.
“Every bit of help makes a difference,” he said.
“We’re also thrilled that the Lions Club in Ōtorohanga has agreed to sponsor two pianos in that town, one at the railway station and the other outside their shop.”
Matriarch’s milestone
Dr. Scott Mouat (B.Chiro) Chiropractor
Dr. Alana Sherman (B.Chiro) Chiropractor
Surrounded by family and friends, June Fagan celebrated her 100th birthday at the Panorama Motor Inn restaurant, Te Kūiti, late last month. The following day she celebrated with fellow residents and staff at Hillview Home. The Fagan family includes numerous champion shearers and June said she was equally proud of all of her children – Robin, John, Kenneth, Geoffrey, Helen and David – and her grandchildren and greatgrandchildren.
Kelly Ashby tinkles the ivories with Sue Sands and Remko Pootjes listening.
Photo: Viv Posselt
Peace Cup bid Why councillor removed name
=By Chris Gardner
Kit Jeffries has removed his name from a petition asking Ōtorohanga District Council to protect inner Kāwhia Harbour from vehicles.
“...I had to take my name off it simply because it was pointed out to me that I would have a conflict of interest at a council level when it comes to a vote,” he told this month’s meeting of the Kawhia Community Board.
Te Taiao o Kāwhia Moana chair Maea Marshall brought the petition to the public forum of the meeting where it found support from board members.
Petitioners say vehicles enter the inner harbour via the boat ramp on Kaora Street near Maketū Marae on an almost daily basis causing damage and disruption to shellfish beds, marine habitats and tuturiwhatu (New Zealand dotterel) nesting sites. Drivers who misjudge the tide find themselves cut off at the lagoon as much as three times per week, with vehicle fluids leaching into the environment.
Petitioners want access to be removed at the boat ramp and an alternative at Tom French Grove at the end of Te Puia Road.
“I certainly support what you are doing, and I always have,” Jeffries told Marchall.
Marshall told the board she would take the petition to the council’s public forum on July 29.
“There are so many vehicles that have been stranded on the beach, some of them for 24 hours,” Marshall said.
Board member Richard Harpur said he would support the petition so long as an
alternative access was granted to Ocean Beach. Marshall said discussions were underway to provide alternative access to Ocean Beach. If alternative access could not be granted at Tom French Grove, Good wanted to know if there was a Plan B.
“Plan A is that we’re successful,” Marshall said.
The council is investigating the feasibility of alternative access to the beach through Tainui Kāwhia Incorporated forestry land.
Council regulatory and growth group manager Tony Quickfall said if a decision was made to close the beach access it would be necessary to update the bylaw.
With the club rugby season winding down and just an all Taupō premiership final to be played this weekend, local rugby supporters can turn their attention to the Maniapoto rep side.
This side will represent the five North King Country clubs and have received an added bonus of a direct challenge for the revered Peace Cup and Stan Meads Shield against Central Bay of Plenty in Rotorua on August 9.
To mark the opening of the new oval facility and improved Centennial Park Grandstand, Maniapoto will play Counties/Manukau Māori representatives on August 2 as a final tune up.
Over the past six weeks the Maniapoto selectors have left no stone unturned observing all the local rugby, engaging with players and coaches at their trainings and liaising with club officials for support.
“Our group has a focus upon providing our local players and rugby supporters with a level of community rugby which is a step up from club level and at the same time resurrect some pride in representing the time-honoured history of Maniapoto Rugby,” campaign manager Paul SeniorPartridge explained.
“With an outstanding coaching group featuring the vastly experienced Tanirau Manawaiti joined by Craig Bell and Sheldon Coffin this provides our young squad with some great learning experiences,” he added.
He said there had been “great buy in” from the playing group and to have a direct challenge for the Peace Cup was a real bonus.
His fellow New Zealand Māori Under
20 rep Rico Bell will be joined by brother Delane who was a star of the campaign in 2024.
Peace Cup competition rules allow “Players of Origin” and the inclusion of the experienced Murray Iti and Josh Coffin and cousin Kauri Coffin will bolster the ranks considerably.
Players are expected to confirm their availability over the coming days and the team will meet up on July 27 for an iwi presentation and to perfect their haka before launching into training on three days later.
“ I believe the quality in this team is there for all to see and hopefully local rugby folk will get behind us and a big crowd will turn out to Centennial Park for our game against Counties/Manukau Māori”, Senior-Partridge added. The initial squad is.
Props: R Joyes (Waitete), R MulliganGreen (Waitomo), L Taitoka (Bush), P Astle (Piopio). Hookers W Harris (Waitete), N Crook (Piopio). Locks: J Coffin (Player of Origin), I Griffin (Piopio), S Wilson (Waitete), F. Hahn (Waitete), B Pye (Waitomo). Loose Forwards: I Wana (Waitete), M Iti (Player of Origin) K Muller (Waitomo), J Crosland (Waitete), R Bell (Waitete) T Proffit (Piopio). Halfbacks: K Reymer (Piopio), A Sneddon (Waitete). Five Eights: C Hedley (Waitete), K Coffin (Player of Origin). M Cumpstone (Kiokio Utd) Midfield: C Karaitiana (Waitete), S Daniels (Bush) D Tutaki (Bush) K Hodgson (Bush) D Bell Piopio): Outside backs M Reilly (Piopio), P Marshall (Waitete) J Jolly (Kiokio Utd). Fullbacks B Hedley (Te Kuiti)
Kit Jeffries
Across 1. Spanish rice dish (6)
5. Strain (6) 8. Pledge (3) 9. Courteous (6)
10. Sullied (6)
11. Flightless bird (4)
13. Salutation (8)
14. Leg bone (5)
15. Cruelty (5)
19. Cheat, con artist (8)
21. Reverberate (4)
Last week
22. Energy (6)
23. Categorically (6)
25. Regret (3)
26. Contemptibly few (6)
27. Comment (6)
2. Do away with (7) 3. Garland (3) 4. Retaliate (6) 5. Spin (6)
6. Well thought of (9) 7. Warning device (5) 12. Clever and inventive (9) 16. Academic (7) 17. Indistinct (6) 18. Like better (6) 20. Grizzle (5) 24. Intention (3)
Across: 1. Scrub, 4. Addict, 7. Run, 8. Doddle, 9. Nation, 10. Slippery, 12. Reek, 13. Ledger, 15. Dredge, 16. Obey, 17. Punctual, 19. Salami, 20. Touchy, 22. Lie, 23. Heckle, 24. Donor.
Down: 1. Shoulder blade, 2. Red, 3. Breve, 4. Annoyed, 5. Detergent, 6. Choreographer, 11. Piggyback, 14. Reptile, 18. Noted, 21. Urn.
RAHULAHULAPOLKANEC GNBOSSANOVAEKDPCTC VGGWMINUETEBYENPEH VOLTAZOLURLLTAGCHA EMIQTUBKESLSDANMOR LQMDUOGMAEKGBASORL ENBFDSOBBCOMDEAMNE TMOOISMIILADUHGAPS AQSRTUSUCSRQCNAMIT TARHRZQFROSAMDLBPO POGJFMLKWEHQBQOOEN MIWALTZSBCONGAPVYF ETWISTCANCANSHIMMY KLANCERSIQICEJFJIG TVAJCAQCAKEWALKELN
ARABESQUE BELLYDANCE BOLERO BOSSANOVA CAKEWALK CANCAN CHA-CHA CHARLESTON CLOGDANCE CONGA
Brighten any moment with fresh, handcrafted blooms. Supplying Te Kuiti & surrounding areas. Subscriptions – Joy, delivered regularly. Florist Services – Elegant, artistic arrangements. Weddings & Events – Unforgettable, lovefilled florals.
EIGHTSOMEREEL FLAMENCO
tributes,
This newspaper is subject to NZ Media Council procedures. A complaint must first be directed in writing, within one month of publication, to the editor’s email address. If not satisfied with the response, the complaint may be referred to the Media Council P O Box 10-879, The Terrace, Wellington 6143. Or use the online complaint form at www. mediacouncil.org.nz
Please include copies of the article and all correspondence with the publication.
All puzzles © The Puzzle
Property Of The Week
A Home Above The Rest
Positioned proudly on one of Otorohanga’s top streets, this standout property offers elevation, privacy, and all-day sun. Step inside to a warm, modern interior with clean lines and quality finishes. The sunsoaked living, dining, and high-spec kitchen are designed for connection and flow, with a gas fireplace and DVS system ensuring year-round comfort. It features four generous bedrooms, including a master with walk-in wardrobe and ensuite, and two stylish bathrooms. Enjoy peaceful mornings on the private patio and unwind in the evening on the large deck, perfectly positioned for sweeping views and
spectacular sunsets. Outside, the section is a private haven, complete with fruit trees, established gardens, a greenhouse, and garden shed. A quality home in a premium location.
Features: Desirable street - Four large bedrooms - Walk in wardrobe - Two bathrooms (ensuite & bath) - High end kitchen - Modern interior - Open plan - Gas fireplace - DVS - Fully insulated - Attic stairs - Brick cladding - Double internal garageDeck overlooking amazing views & private patio - Off street parking - Garden shed & greenhouse - Gardens - Rental appraisal $640-$660 per week.
ADDRESS 17 Thomson Avenue, Ōtorohanga
LAND SIZE 1232sqm
PRICE By Negotiation
WEBSITE blueribbonharcourts.co.nz
WEB ID TA23845
Open Home Sun 20 July, 1.30 - 2.00pm
Team Kerry & Karen
As is, where is on William Street
A rare opportunity to secure a substantial 1,140 m2 (more or less) section in a central Te Kuiti location. The original home on the site has been severely damaged by fire and the property is now being sold as is, where is. The section offers excellent potential for those looking to rebuild, redevelop, or landbank. With services already on site and a convenient location close to schools, shops, and town amenities, this could be the perfect project for the right buyer. Don't miss your chance to explore the potential of 21 William Street. Contact us today for more information or to arrange a site viewing.
Te Kuiti 21 William Street
Aria 9 Tainui Street
Ōtorohanga sections (sizes are approximate)
Lot 1, 52 Old Te Kuiti Road, Otorohanga, 1876sqm, power
Lot 2, 0 Old Te Kuiti Road, Otorohanga, 2716sqm, power and water at gate, no covenants. Ph John P. $285,000 9 Sunset Close, Otorohanga, 750sqm in popular Westridge. Phone Lorraine or John
163 Old Te Kuiti Road, Lots 1 & 4, 5517-8932sqm, easy covenants. Phone Lorraine From $250,000ea
Lot 1, 627 Waitomo Valley Road, Otorohanga, 8105sqm rural lifestyle section. Phone Julie $320,000
Lots 90-108 Harpers Avenue, 486sqm to 962sqm, Westridge II subdivision. Phone John From $220,000ea
576C Mangawhero Road, Otorohanga, 1ha, fenced, sensible covenants. Ph Noldy Offers over $385,000
2/823 Ngahape Road, Otorohanga, over 6000sqm, elevated building site, rural views. Ph Noldy $450,000
3/823 Ngahape Road, Otorohanga, over 6500sqm of land, power to boundary, fencing in. Ph Noldy $450,000 Te Kūiti sections (sizes are approximate)
35 Robin Azariah Place, Te Kuiti, 1084sqm, handy to schools and hospital. Phone Buzz $250,000
54A Ailsa Street (Lot 1), Te Kuiti, 2159sqm, end of a cul de sac, STT. Phone Buzz By Negotiation 54A Ailsa Street (Lot 2), Te Kuiti, 1707sqm, end of a cul de sac, STT. Phone Buzz By Negotiation 10 Robin Azariah Place, Te Kuiti, 600sqm level section. Phone Buzz
Other sections (sizes are approximate)
71 Hone Street, Kawhia, 1012sqm bare section in Kawhia, freehold with no covenants. Ph Julie $290,000 0 State Highway 3, Piopio, 984sqm. Phone Buzz
171 Ngahape Road, Te Kawa, 5001sqm. Phone Cherie
Raglan Road, Kawhia, 2648sqm lifestyle section, no
4398 Kawhia Road, SH31, Oparau
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. TENDER Plus GST (if any) (Unless
pggwre.co.nz/TEK41810
Gardening
FOR BLOOMING BEAUTIES AND PLANTS THAT THRIVE Katrina Christison Tidy Gardens
Easy rose pruning guide
Your Easy Rose Pruning Guide
Best time to prune: Mid July & August
Rose pruning doesn’t have to be daunting— with the right tools, a bit of prep, and a fineweather day, you’ll set your roses up for a healthy, upcoming season.
Before You Start – Your Checklist
1. Clean, sharp tools:
Sharp secateurs make clean cuts, reducing the chance of disease or pests.
Clean your tools before and between plants to avoid spreading anything nasty.
2. Spray & fertiliser ready:
After pruning, it’s the ideal time to spray with liquid copper (fungicide & bactericide) and Super Shield (systemic fungicide + insecticide).
This is the only time I spray my roses.
Feed with rose fertiliser and sheep pellets to support healthy regrowth.
3. Extras to have on hand:
A tarpaulin for easy cleanup, then you can just throw your pruning on the tarp and drag to your rubbish pile.
Thick gloves (roses bite!)
A spray bottle of methylated spirits to sterilise tools between plants to stop the spread of any disease.
How to Prune
Choose a dry day – rain + fresh cuts = higher risk of disease.
Step 1: Start with the 3 D’s
Remove anything Dead, Diseased or Damaged
Cut back to green growth or all the way down if needed.
Step 2: Thin out weak canes
Cut off any stems thinner than a pencil—they won’t produce good blooms.
Step 3: Open up the centre
Remove crossing canes or anything growing inward.
You’re aiming for a vase shape—open in the middle, like a bowl.
Step 4: Shape and train
Cut just above a bud that faces outward—this encourages outward growth and better airflow. Make cuts on a slant away from the bud to prevent water from sitting on it, which can cause rot.
TENDER
WAITOMO Waitomo Caves Road
Rare Opportunity - Prime Bare Land
TENDER
Plus GST (if any) (Unless Sold Prior)
Closes 4.00pm, Friday 15 August
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
VIEW
10.00-11.00am
Thursday 17, 24 & 31 July
Peter Wylie
M 027 473 5855
E pwylie@pggwrightson.co.nz
PGG Wrightson
WAITOMO Waitomo
•
M 027 554 8248 todd@toddormsby.co.nz
6 Main North Rd, Ōtorohanga P 07 873 6364
Quality workmanship
• House alterations and maintenance
• Farm pumps, sheds, cowsheds
• Heat pumps and transfer kit installations
• Security alarms • Cable locating... and much more!
45 Waitete Rd, Te Kūiti • P: (07)878 8842 E: tekuiti@laserelectrical.co.nz
Cleaver 022 068 2796 ptpower@mkf.co.nz
Property maintenance and construction
treatments,Chemwash,waterblasting,guttervac, watertankandtroughcleaning fences,retaining,oddjobsandmore. Referencesavailable GSTregistered. Mike & Allana 027 350 0836 – info@handy-man.co.nz
• Sewing machine repairs and maintenance
• Overlocker repairs and maintenance
• Scissors/knives sharpened
• Cycle repairs and servicing
Ph Neil 027 587 8538 helen.neilpotter@gmail.com
WORK WANTED
Farm Work Wanted
Experienced farmer available for relief work, calving, milking, general farm work, GST registered Ph 022 0844349
VEHICLES WANTED
VEHICLES WANTED – We buy all cars, vans, utes, trucks, in any condition, dead or alive. Call 0800 333 398 or text 021 344 449
TE KŪITI SELLING CENTRE
ATTN: Dairy Farmers & Rearers. Feeder Calf sales will be commencing…. Wednesday, July 23, 2025
12 noon start
Then weekly thereafter. Please Contact your Local Agent with your entries prior to sale.
GOATS WANTED
Will buy or muster feral goats Prompt pick up and payment Ph Gavin 027 877 7512 or 07 877 7512
Septic Tank Cleaning
• Emptying septic tanks
• CCTV pipeline inspection
• Jetting drainage pipelines
• Spreading animal effluent PUBLIC NOTICES
Waitomo Liquid Waste Disposal 021 111 3911
TE KUITI FEEDER CALF SALES Commencing …… Wednesday, July 23, 2025 12 noon Start.
Then weekly thereafter. Please phone entries to:
Warick Smith 027 257 6513
Sam Brooks 027 4545 5336
Brett Wallbank 027 488 1299
John Grainger 027 4314 9929
Richard Bevege 027 453 9824
Before 3pm Monday prior to Wednesday sale. (To help with buyer notification)
Te Kūiti Cattle & Sheep Sale Friday, July 25 Sheep start 11.30am Cattle 12 Noon
Special Entry A/c E & S Taylor
(Corriebeg Farm- Capital Stock- Farm Sold)
650 Romney Ewe Hgts ( Shorn January, Kiwitahi Romney, Ken Haywood Romney Rams used.)
40 M/A Hereford Cows VIC Hfd Bull 8th Jan
33 R4yr Hereford Hfrs VIC Hfd Bull 8th Jan – R2nd Calvers
26 R3yr Hereford Hfrs VIC Hfd Bull 8th Jan
63 R2yr Hereford Hfrs
40 R2yr Hereford Bulls
65 R1yr Hereford Hfrs
85 R1yr Hereford Bulls
2 M/A Hereford Sire Bulls
All Bulls have been EBL & BVD tested & vaccinated. Herd =C10. Taylor Family have been breeding purebred Herefords for 70 years farmed on hills at Mapiu. Very Good temperament and top sire bulls been used for many years.
PUBLIC NOTICE OF APPARENTLY ABANDONED LAND
TAKE NOTICE that Waitomo District Council intends to exercise its statutory powers conferred by s.77 of the Local Government (Rating) Act 2002 in respect of the land described below
1. Apply to the District Court one month after the date of this notice for an order declaring the land to be abandoned, and
2. To authorise Waitomo District Council to sell or lease the land –
Because the rates have not been paid to Waitomo District Council for three (3) years and the rate payer of the land:
(a) is unknown, or
(b) cannot be found after due inquiry and has no known New Zealand agent, or (c) is deceased and has no personal representative, or (d) has given notice to the Waitomo District Council of his or her intention to abandon the land or has abandoned the land.
Valuation number: 0585125300
Section 2 Block II Town of Aria (TN177/27 Taranaki land registry) in the name of William Howe. The property is situated at 14 Kiekie Street, Aria and is within the territory of the Waitomo District Council.
Valuation number: 0585125301
Section 1 Block II I Aria Town of Aria (TNC2/913 Taranaki land registry) in the name of William Howe. The property is situated at 16 Kiekie Street, Aria and is within the territory of the Waitomo District Council.
Valuation number: 0588418900
Part Lot 1 Section 16 Village of Te Kuiti (SA1203/83 South Auckland land registry) in the name of Parehuia Josephine Osborne. The property is situated at 33 Tawa Street, Te Kuiti and is within the territory of the Waitomo District Council.
Valuation number: 0588700700
Lot 9 Block VIII Deposited Plan 16843 (SA9C/394 South Auckland land registry) in the name of Regiman Tapara. The property is situated at 8 Earl Street, Te Kuiti and is within the territory of the Waitomo District Council.
Valuation number: 0586243602
Part Allotment 1 Block II Deposited Plan 4132 (TN105/244 Taranaki land registry) in the name of George Arthur March. The property is situated at State Highway 30, Kopaki and is within the territory of the Waitomo District Council.
Valuation number: 0586503700
Lot 17 Deposited Plan 7726 (TNF1/994 Taranaki land registry) in the name of Stephen Trevor McCurran & Janine Ina McCurran. The property is situated at 73 Ellis Road, Maniaiti/Benneydale and is within the territory of the Waitomo District Council.
For further information please ring Len Sheeran 0274 735859.
If you have an interest or any information to the proposed application by the Waitomo District Council, you should contact Aimee Osborne on 0508 436 269, dmc@mw.org.nz or DMC, DX PA84005, Feilding
This notice is authorised by:
Ben Smit
Chief Executive
Waitomo District Council 24 June 2025
King Country Grey Power Inc OPEN MEETING
Monday, July 28 @ 2pm Te Kuiti Lyceum Club, 4 Hinerangi Street, Te Kūiti
Speakers from Civil Defence/Emergency management
EVERYONE WELCOME
Shared afternoon tea
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
Unlawful Livestock Pirongia Forest Park
The owners of livestock unlawfully within the Pirongia Forest Park are asked to remove their livestock immediately. If the livestock are not removed within one month of the first publication of this notice they will be impounded, destroyed or otherwise disposed of, pursuant to section 36 of the Conservation Act 1987.
D. Patterson
Warranted Officer
This notice was first published on 17 July 2025.
All enquiries to the Department of Conservation, Waikato District Office, PO Box 20025, Te Rapa, Hamilton, Telephone 0800 DOC HOT.
ON FARM
Please watch further adverts with updates. For further information please ring Len Sheeran 0274 735859. 1
2020 Honda SxS 1000 motorbike
2021 Honda TRX 520 motorbike
2018 Honda TRX 500 motorbike
Staple gun compressor
Deutz Fahr tractor
Deutz Fahr tractor with bale fork
Kobeico 5KI 1255R-2 excavator 13 Tonne tilt bucket
NOTICE OF SPECIAL GENERAL MEETING TO BENEFICIARIES AND BENEFICIAL OWNERS OF TE HOKINGAMAI KI TE NEHENEHENUI (OTEWA) MARAE
Taupiri Soldiers and Settlers Hall, 12 Te Putu St, Taupiri Sunday, 10 August 2025
Time: 10:00 am
AGENDA:
1. Karakia Tīmatanga
2. Apologies
3. Redefine beneficiary class
4. Karakia Whakamutunga
The following resolution will be considered at the meeting: That the beneficiary class of Te Hokingamai ki te Nehenehenui Marae be redefined to be for the common use and benefit of the beneficial owners of Rangitoto Tuhua 33C3B4B 1D 2 and their descendants.
Contact: Lorraine Anderson
andersonlorraine@xtra.co.nz 021 137 6208
SITUATIONS VACANT
Part Time Teacher
3 days a week
Are you a collaborative teacher?
We have a position in our new entrant class for 3 days a week from the end of term 3 until the end of the year. There is some flexibility in the days that you would teach.
If you are interested please email your cv and cover letter to principal@ppp.school.nz
Preferred start date is 1st September or if needed 6th October 2025.
Assistant Retail Manager
We are looking for a confident, well organised person to manage and control the day-to-day operation of a busy Te Kūiti retail store.
Applicants must have good people skills, good computer skills and be able to ‘think on your feet’, provide good service to customers and manage the daily workflow of our team in this hands-on position.
This is a full-time position working from Tuesday to Saturday 39 hours per week
If you are interested, please send CV and request a Mitre 10 employment application from tekuiti@mitre10.co.nz
ŌTOROHANGA CLUB INC.
86TH ANNUAL MEETING
All financial members of the Otorohanga Club Incorporated are invited to attend.
Proof of membership must be presented on admittance.
AGENDA
1. Welcome and Apologies
2. Confirmation of the AGM minutes held Sunday, July 21, 2024
3. Matters arising from the 2024 AGM minutes
4. Presidents Report – Jock Gollan
5. Financial Report for Year ended 31st March 2025
• Accountant Findex
• Confirmation Auditor for 2025
6. Managers Report – Bronwyn Merrin
7. Remits
• Adoption of Otorohanga Club Constitution
• Reregistration under the Incorporated Societies Act 2022
8. Gold Member presentation for 50 years continuous membership - Selwyn Coker, Barry Disher, Peter Maka, Ken Pinny, Jeff Rountree, Max Thirkell, Steven Thomas, Trevor Wall
9. Election result of club officers
10. General business
Bronwyn Merrin
Secretary/Manager
or 14days for Full PGGW account holders.”
TENDER OPPORTUNITY
Waste Services Contract - C1163
ThisRequestforTendersisissuedjointlyby Ōtorohanga District Council (ŌDC) and Waitomo District Council (WDC).
This is a joint procurement for the provision of waste services. This covers kerbside refuse and recycling collections, as well as servicing street litter and recycling bins. It also includes the operation of recycling centres and transfer stations including; Te Kūiti Transfer Station (WDC contract), and the transportation, processing, and disposal of both waste and recyclables.
Tender Details: Tender Opens: 8 July 2025 at 2pm Tender questions deadline: 15 August 2025 at 2pm Tender closes: 29 August 2025 at 3pm GETS reference: RFx ID 32019660
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.
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 Thursday, 14 August 2025
Time: 10am
Location: Matawhaiora tari, 49 Taupiri Street, Te Kūiti
**Note date change**
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, Thursday 14th August 2025.
HELP!
Te Kuiti CAB needs more Volunteers
If you are interested or wish to have more information please call in to 222 Rora St, Te Kuiti or phone us on 07 8787636 or email us on tekuiti@cab.org.nz
FIREWOOD gum mix –$110 cu/m. Delivery Oto/ Tkt. Ph 021 107 1967.
Waitanguru and Districts Branch Rural Women NZ
AGM 2025
Tuesday 22nd July
7pm @ Senior Citizens Club Weka St, Piopio
All welcome
Enquiries Tracey 021 1377118
PILATES TERM 3,
2025
Begins on Monday, July 14
Beginners (Level 1) 1pm Level 2- 2pm or 6.30pm Level 3 – 5.30pm
In St David’s Church Hall Ranfurly Street Otorohanga.
Cost - $10 per week Contact Jane 022 011 9626
Annual General Meeting 2025
Te Korapatu Marae
– Te Kumi A31
102 Hangatiki East Road, Te Kuiti
Date: Saturday 9 August 2025
Time: 10.00am–12.30pm
AGENDA
• Whakatau
• Apologies
• Confirmation of 2024
AGM Minutes
• Chairperson’s Report
• Annual Financial Report
• Other Reports
• Election of New Trustees – 4 Positions
General Business
Mihi
Karakia Whakamutunga
life’s hardest moments, you don’t have to be alone. Our caring, experienced, and local team offers support, guidance, and a farewell that truly honours your loved one.
Available 24/7 – call us when you need us.
All welcome
Executive
The Rosetown Funerals team L to R: Jim Goddin, Teri Keir and Jordan Goss
hunt furnishers
