Four hats in mayoral ring
By Chris Gardner
Waitomo mayor John Robertson is now facing three contenders for the district’s mayoral chains.
Taharoa life coach and business mentor Natasha Willison-Reardon rang Robertson to say she was standing against him in the upcoming election.
Robertson is also facing competition from rural councillor Janette Osborne and council property officer Richard Ross.
The News has sought comment from Willison-Reardon.
Fellow candidate – assuming they follow through an are nominated – Osborne wrote on WillisonReardon’s social media page she was “genuinely thrilled to see you standing”.
“Choice is good. You bring a lot to any table you sit at and have a strong voice for the community. I look forward to hearing more of your views and ideas over the next few months and hope that we may end up sitting around the same table in whichever capacity the people may decide. We do need change.”
Elsewhere, rural Waitomo councillor and deputy mayor Allan Goddard, who was first elected in 2010, has told The News he was standing for re-election. First term urban councillors Dan Tasker and Eady Manawaiti also plan to stand again.
After three terms urban councillor Janene New is retiring from politics.
“There’s an opportunity for others to participate in local government,” New said.
Asked about the biggest challenge over her nine years, New said: “It’s always fiscal. Trying to achieve all that you want to achieve while keeping in mind the ratepayers pay for it.”
The opening of the Gallagher Recreation Centre in Eketone Street, Te Kūiti, in 2023 was one of New’s proudest moments, she said. The council worked with Te Kūiti High School and Ngāti Rora on the project.
One of the council’s biggest challenges, she said, was keeping abreast of constantly changing Government policy such as Three Waters pivoting to Local Water Done Well.
At Ōtorohanga District Council, incumbent Kio Kio-Korakonui ward councillor Rodney Dow and
Kōkako numbers up
In 1978 protesters took to the trees in Pureora to prevent a native logging operation they said further endanger the last of the forest’s kōkako. They gained national attention, and five years later logging was stopped for good.
Today, aided by pest control, the Pureora forest population is estimated at 670 breeding pairs. It is the largest since a recovery programme began in 1990 and the Department of Conservation talks of numbers being restored to levels present more than 60 years ago.
Kōkako are also flourishing elsewhere – and this week has seen the arrival of the first of 20 birds to Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari from the Hunua Range where a recovery programme was launched in the 1990s. It is believed the total population of kōkako
may have fallen to as low as 300 pairs before the turn of the century – today it’s closer to 2000.
In 1994 the only remaining breeding female in the Hunua Range fledged three chicks. The population was subsequently bolstered with additions from Mapara, Pureora, and Tiritiri Matangi and by 2015 there was 55 pairs.
Today Doc lists the kokako as “ nationally increasing” and reports a national population of 2300 pairs.
South of Te Kūiti on State Highway 4 the 1400ha Mapara Wildlife Management Reserve is also a safe haven for the wattle bird.
Other populations are being managed in Taranaki, Northland, East Coast and Bay of Plenty and offshore islands.
• See: Kōkako’s flight delayed, page 7
Wharepuhanga ward councillor
Kathy Prendergast will be in the battle for the mayoral chains after Max Baxter steps down.
Ōtorohanga ward councillor Katrina Christison is standing for re-election.
“As for the mayoralty, I won’t be putting my name forward,” she said. “I’d prefer not to split the vote.”
Kawhia-Tihiroa Ward councillor Kit Jeffries who came within 105 votes of winning the 2022 mayoral race against Baxter after a stint as councillor also plans to stand again for council. He also served on the Waikato Civil Defence Emergency Management Committee.
Deputy mayor Annette Williams has signalled she will stand down with mayor Baxter in October.
Williams said she had been asked if she was standing for council and mayor.
“It's nice to know that people would support my nomination,” she said.
“But after 12 years of making space for Ōtorohanga District Council and the community I would like to have more time to consider opportunities that have had to be put to one side or turned down in business and private life.”
Waipā ward councillor Roy Johnson, who voted against replacing the council’s old kiwi logo with the new nest logo for fear of slighting Ōtorohanga Kiwi House, is also standing down.
“I have done 15 years,” he said. “Moving over for new blood to have the opportunity.”
One of the kōkako on Maungatautari this week. Photo: Tania and Andrew Wilkinson
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Council leaves it to nature
Waitomo councillors have decided not to spend more money on the section of seawall it owns in Mōkau at the end of Point Road.
They decided last week not to proceed with a renewal and maintenance plan priced at $900,000
The topic was part of council’s draft Annual Plan 2025-2026 consultation where the community was asked to provide feedback on whether the failing seawall should be removed or re-built.
Council received 38 submissions and views were mixed.
Councillors changed from their preferred option outlined in consultation document and decided that money would only be spent on monitoring, clearing debris from the beach after erosion of the carpark and accessway and maintaining public safety.
“Councillors recognised that there has been a huge amount of information that they have been able to review that may not have always been available to the public in terms of technical reports and decisions from previous councils,” a statement from the council
Letters…
Drawing the line
read.
Discussions included the level of public benefit against the cost to rebuild or build new, and the sentiment that nature will take its course and erosion can’t necessarily be controlled.
Mayor John Robertson said there was no guarantee a new seawall will last.
“If we repair or replace it, it may last for some years, or it
may be severely damaged in a serious storm. We may build it today and lose it tomorrow.
“When making decisions on spending rates public bodies need to ask the question – is this project for public or private benefit?
“Public benefit exists, for the public who visit the Point, park in the carpark, and use the steps to the beach. But there
are options for the public. Wall or no wall, they can visit the beach through other pathways and park in other places. So in my mind, the public benefit is a nice to have, but not such an imperative that council should proceed to build a wall at considerable cost and risk of failure.”
The council will adopt its annual plan on June 30.
Is it just me, or have others noticed a “surge” in diabolical driving practices around Te Kuiti over the last three to four weeks?
I am not referring to the police’s on-going battle with “boy racers” or even to drivers using their phones whilst driving. I am referring to the increased driving through stop signs, drivers crossing the centreline of the road, increased cutting of corners at intersections, parking on the wrong side of the road, verges and footpaths, blasting through intersections whilst failing to give way, and blasting through carparks at New World and The Warehouse.
It seems to have become fashionable for a number of people to park on dotted yellow lines, particularly outside schools during school hours.
Why is this so concerning? These dotted yellow lines are positioned for safety reasons, to allow motorists to clearly see children wanting to cross the road, and for
children to see approaching vehicles.
Over a period of about eight days, I witnessed one particular vehicle parked on no less than five separate occasions on these lines outside a primary school.
I eventually approached the offender to ask if she knew what the lines meant, and why they were there. I was floored by her own words that she knew that she should never stop or park on these lines.
She did offer a “sorry” but continued with her business rather than move her car promptly to a safer location.
It surely must be our joint responsibility as a community to stand up and call out (politely where possible) this behaviour as unacceptable, lest our failure to act results in our (or our best friend’s) child being maimed or killed.
Come on Te Kuiti, we can do a lot better, can’t we? (Abridged)
Gordon Walker Te Kūiti
Who’s stealing?
Three years ago we all heard the cry from the then National and Act opposition in parliament that Māori were stealing the water. Now we see a mad scramble to jump on the three waters band wagon and gain control of water and commercialise its use . The only difference I see is it is a pakeha minister pushing councils to get on board and the exclusion of iwi from having any input.
I think we can now safely say it is Pakeha stealing the water and I have no doubt that not far down the track water entities will be sold to off shore investors that the government is courting right now .
Had the race baiting been ignored, three waters would be up and running now and perhaps another billion dollars would not have been tipped into Cook Straight alongside the scuttled ferries . Gordon Walker Piopio
Reach a targeted rural and lifestyle audience each month by advertising your business in King Country Farmer: featured inside the King Country News as its own liftout.
Mokau’s sea wall: John Robertson says “we may build it today and lose it tomorrow”.
Exhibition opens
A photographic exhibition by Professor Tom Roa - a regular columnist in The News and Dr Rodrigo Hill developed from the research project ‘Te Nehenehenui - The Ancient Enduring Beauty in the Great Forest of the King Country’ will open at Waikato University on Friday next week.
Road works
Road repair crews will be onsite until the end of the month between Uruti and Piopio, working at multiple sites following the damage caused by storms last week.
The New Zealand Transport Agency estimates the delays will add an hour on to a journeys between New Plymouth and Hamilton.
Party pooper
An Air NZ plane stole the limelight from Jetstar when it left Hamilton Airport for Christchurch 14 minutes later than it should have on Monday. The ATR 72-600 was parked in front of the terminal when the Jetstar Airbus from Sydney landed at 11.07am, spoiling the shot of Hamilton’s first international flight for 13 years for hundreds gathered in the upstairs viewing area.
Freshened up
Waitomo District Council’s customer services, on the main street of Te Kūiti, has had a name refresh. Now known as ‘Customer Services and Visitor Hub’, the Rora Street premises offers residents and visitors access to a range of information and services specific to the Waitomo district, and Council.
Matariki celebration
Ōtorohanga College, with a speech contest, and Te Kūiti High School, with hands-on activities, marked Matariki today ahead of tomorrow’s public holiday. Dozens of activities are planned throughout the greater Waikato to mark the Māori New Year including at Ōtorohanga Library today where Ockie Simmonds from the Society of Māori Astronomy Research and Traditions will speak this morning.
Board wants charge review
By Chris Gardner
Ōtorohanga District Council is being asked to scale back plans to raise water connection and usage charges.
Ōtorohanga Community Board spent an hour of its June meeting agonising whether to accept council finance manager Brendan O’Callaghan recommendation to increase annual rates for water connections from $200 to $225 usage rates from $1.80 to $2.10, plus GST, for every cubic metre.
“Based on the average per connection consumption for the prior year of 220 cubic metres, this would result in an annual increase for an average property of $91.00, comprising $25 increase in the fixed charge and $66 for consumption,” O’Callaghan said in his report.
“In terms of spread of the increases, the lowest user would have an increase of $25, based on the fixed charge increase, while the biggest user would have an increase of $2,016 (GST exclusive).
“Based on these charges, and the current consumption and water loss figures, the income received from water charging would be in line with the budgeted income requirement for 2025-26 of $1,086,500.”
O’Callaghan said the main risk associated with the decision was if the council’s water supply account were to get into deficit
Ōtorohanga ward councillor Steve Hughes started the conversation with concern.
“It’s pretty tough out there,” he said.
“It hurts like hell. People can’t afford to pay these charges.”
Board member Jo Butcher echoed his concerns.
“It’s come at a really terrible time. Interest rates have only just started to come down.”
Butcher was also concerned about the uncertainty of costs surrounding Waikato Water Done Well.
“I know it’s going to go up,” she said.
O’Callaghan warned deferring increasing charges
would lead to a greater increase next year.
Board deputy chair Peter Coventry said there was no easy answer and wanted more time to consider charges.
Chair councillor Katrina Christison said the council needed to communicate to ratepayers in layman’s terms why an increase was necessary.
The communications team needed to create a fact sheet, she said.
After an hour the board decided to recommend a $20 increase to annual connection charges to $220, instead of $225, and a 20-cent increase to $2 per cubic metre of water used, instead of $2.10 and that the communications team create a fact sheet explaining why increase was necessary.
Business enablement manager Graham Bunn warned the board that the council may not heed its recommendation.
Speaking at an extra ordinary council meeting the following day, mayor Max Baxter said the
reality was that deficits in council budgets had to be addressed.
At that meeting councillors heard that it had received just four submissions on its preference to hand its drinking and wastewater over to the councilcontrolled organisation Waikato Water Done Well.
Two of the submissions supported Ōtorohanga joining six other councils in the organisation, one asked the council to consider an enhanced status quo model, while the fourth gave no preference.
The council will confirm its decision on June 24.
Mayoral hopeful and councillor Rodney Dow spoke in favour of enhanced status quo and said scale was not always the answer, controlling costs was.
Engineering and assets manager Mark Lewis said the council’s water account was in deficit.
“It’ll probably be the same staff doing the same job that they do every day with a different jacket on and being paid my somebody else,”
Baxter said.
“There’s so many things that won’t change. Everything will be the same as it was, but under a different regime.”
Chief executive Tanya Winter asked: “Why would we give away technically competent staff?” Hughes said he was surprised at the deficit.
“We have been living in a false economy. The council south of us are double water charges. Is that reflecting their costs? We have been behind the eight ball for so long with people sitting on their hands.”
Steam trains will be returning
By Jon Rawlinson
Trainspotters have seen a steam engine puffing through the King Country recently and more services are likely to follow.
Once its latest tour has been completed, the Glenbrook Vintage Railway (GVR) engine will, most likely, run shorter tours from Taumarunui, said Glenn Deed, the organisation’s chair.
“Taumarunui has a lot of railway heritage and history. We want to acknowledge this by running more trips in the King Country in the near future.”
The Great North Island Steam and Diesel Rail Tour left GVR’s base in Glenbrook, southern Auckland, and passed through Hamilton and the King Country last week.
The steam engine will stay in Feilding while GVR’s heritage diesels head to Hawke’s Bay. Joining forces again, the locomotives will take part in the Federation of Rail Organisations of New Zealand 50th anniversary. The organisation – Fronzadvocates for heritage rail operations in NZ.
“After the withdrawal of steam engines in the late
1960s, Fronz worked hard to bring it back. We are celebrating that heritage operators are now, from the 1980s, able to run steam trains on the national network. This is a huge achievement for heritage rail in New Zealand.”
Various events will be held during Matariki weekend, June 20-22, operating from Palmerston North.
“On the Friday, we have a grand cavalcade of heritage engines, cab rides on the locomotives and shuttle trains to Feilding. Saturday will see a double headed (two steam locomotives) steam trip up the trunk line to Ohakune and Sunday has a diesel train, including four locomotives and at least 20 carriages, to Taumarunui from Palmerston North.”
GVR’s trains are then expected to pay more than just a flying visit on their return home.
“We have to confirm the dates exactly, but it will probably be late July or early August when we bring the steam engine back to Glenbrook,” Deed said. “So, we’re hopeful there will be some ‘steam stuff’ out of Taumarunui and around the King Country then.”
Otorohanga ward councillor Steve Hughes says, “it’s tough out there”.
GVR’s Ww Class locomotive (number 644, built in 1915), steams through Waikato
ON SHAKY GROUND
Punch bowl or punch bag?
By Peter Nicholl
A Depositor Compensation Scheme will come into effect in New Zealand on 1 July, 2025. With this, New Zealand will finally join most of the other countries in the world in having a formal system of deposit insurance. The first deposit insurance scheme was established in Czechoslovakia in 1924, just over 100 years ago. The USA followed in 1934 and most other countrries joined the move to set up formal deposit insurance schemes during the 1980s and 1990s. In all, over 140 countries have some form of deposit insurance.
But New Zealand wasn’t one of them. When the global financial crisis hit in 2008, this proved to be a problem. The Government of the day felt the need to introduce an emergency deposit guarantee scheme. At its peak the scheme guaranteed deposits of $133 billion in 72 financial institutions. The major weakness of this emergency scheme was that it was not funded by the deposittaking institutions that were being guaranted, it was funded by, and was a big risk for, the Government. This scheme was reduced in size in 2010 and ended on December 31, 2011. I wasn’t living in New Zealand at that time but I think it was recognised that having a formal and permanent system of deposit insurance funded by the financial institutions, as most other countries had, was a much better option than a temporary emergency scheme with the risk being borne by the Government – in other words by the taxpayers.
I am not sure why it has taken almost 14 years since the temporary scheme finished in 2011 for the permanent scheme to be established. When I was Governor of the Central Bank of Bosnia and Herzegovina we introduced a deposit insurance scheme for their banks. The process took about a year.
But the New Zealand scheme will finally start in two weeks time. This new deposit insurance scheme will be funded by levies on the deposittaking institutions that are coverted, though their will be a Crown backstop for additional support but hopefully that backstop won’t need to be called upon. Deposit insurance schemes in many countries only cover banks. But the New Zealand scheme will also cover nonbank deposit takers.
The Reserve Bank has published a list of the 28 institutions that will initially be covered - 14 banks, six finance companies, four building socities and four credit unions. There are a lot more finance companies, building socities and credit unions than that in New Zealand but most of them do not take deposits from the public. If a person is uncertain about which institutions are covered they can check the list on the Reserve Bank’s website. The assets of the 14 banks covered by the scheme total $715 billion. The assets of the 14 non-banks covered by the scheme total $3 billion. Existing deposits in these institutions will be automatically covered from July 1. But there is an upper limit of $100,000 per person per institution. Most other countries have an upper limit also – the United States US$250,000, European Union 100,000 Euros, Australia $250,000 and United Kingdom 85,000 pounds. Though the New Zealand limit is significantly lower than these countries, the Reserve Bank has estimated that 93 per cent of the total deposits in the covered institutions will be protected despite this limit. So the scheme will be very comprehensive.
Matariki at Ōtorohanga College
By Taliya Pickering
In Aotearoa, we have an annual celebration called Matariki. Every year in the month of June we celebrate our Māori New Year as a nation. We look to our skies for the Matariki star cluster which is part of the Pleiades Constellation. Māori around our country have used the rising of these stars for generations to both celebrate the new year and plant their crops by. A Matariki purakau I enjoy is the story of the seven fish of Matariki. The story goes that there were seven young fish who lived in the moana with their mother. One day, the mother fish went to find food for the little ones. She warned them all about never going out because of Tataraimaka, the fierce giant. That day was the day he went fishing. The little group of fish listened but later were hypnotised by the beauty of
The volcano and WWII
By Janine Krippner
A few years ago, I stood at the summit of Vesuvius, gazing into its steep-sided crater—almost perfectly cylindrical—and feeling the awe that comes with being atop one of the world’s most famous volcanoes. But the experience was about more than just geology. The ground I could see around the volcano buried the remains of once-thriving communities.
Vesuvius is best known for its catastrophic eruption, in 79AD, which destroyed Pompeii. But it wasn’t just Pompeii—other towns, including Herculaneum, were also obliterated. In fact, some say Herculaneum is an even more impressive archaeological site to visit today, due to the remarkable preservation of its structures and artefacts.
What many don’t realise is that Vesuvius sits right next to another giant: Campi Flegrei, a caldera capable of producing very large eruptions. Its landscape is dotted with cones and craters, evidence of its more frequent smaller eruptions over time.
What makes Campi Flegrei particularly dangerous is not just its eruptive potential, but its location—parts of the caldera that lie on land are densely populated. I remember standing within it, watching an ambulance struggling to navigate a tight corner. I lost count of how many turns it took. In that moment, it struck me just how chaotic and tragic a large-scale evacuation could be if... or when, the volcano erupts again.
In recent years, Campi Flegrei has entered a heightened state of unrest, appearing often in dramatic headlines labelling it a “supervolcano.” This is inaccurate. Its past eruptions do not meet the scale associated with that term. Still, even a small eruption within a crowded urban area could be catastrophic.
Returning to Vesuvius—there’s a side of its
history that fewer people know. The volcano has erupted many times since it buried Pompeii, sometimes with deadly consequences. In 1631, pyroclastic flows once again surged down its flanks, killing at least 4000 people. It is also mentioned that there was deadly volcanic lightning.
And in a strange twist of history, Vesuvius made its presence known during World War II. In March 1944, it erupted again, damaging a nearby U.S. airbase. Sergeant McRae recorded the chaos in his diary: “
At 8am all hell broke loose. Black stones of all sizes, some as large as a football, fell in great quantity, completely covering the ground, breaking branches from trees, smashing through tents to break up on their floors, tearing through metal, fabric, and Plexiglas of the airplanes.” He counted the total loss at 88 aircraft.
Photos of that eruption show towering ash plumes, and the larger rocks McRae described are ballistic ejecta - chunks of rock blown out at dangerous speeds and often high temperatures, usually landing within several kilometres. For a world already deep in the chaos of war, Vesuvius added another layer of destruction. Vesuvius is a striking example of how much remains overlooked about volcanoes. The most dramatic eruptions tend to capture all the attention, but there is far more to learn from the forgotten stories, evidenced by the layers of ash and rock around them.
These are not just geological curiosities, they are part of the landscapes we live in, part of our history. To truly understand volcanoes is to look beyond the spectacle and into their full, complex lives.
a wonderful place in the moana. The little fishes saw the smooth sea with the sunlight peeking through the sea that was calling for them. They played around the area, forgetting what their mother told them. As expected, Tataraimaka was out fishing. He caught all of the seven fish into his fishing net. Tane, the god of the forests and animals, heard their cries and took the net away from Tataraimaka. Then, Tane threw the net with the fishes up to the sky, up to heaven in the sky. And the little fish became the stars of Matariki. Here at Ōtorohanga College we will be holding our Matariki Celebration Day on Thursday 19th June. On this special occasion we come together and enjoy each other’s company as a College community. It is a time for us to give thanks, remember and celebrate
new beginnings. The students at our College will take part in a variety of fun activities throughout the day. Through this togetherness we honour the values of Matariki - such as unity, gratitude and renewal. Our whole College has been learning the haka, Whakahaware, as part of our Matariki celebrations. Eveleigh, Brown, Hotson and Kedgley Houses have all been working hard to perfect it and our Year 9 students have shown commitment and resilience in learning this haka from scratch. I am confident that every House has a good shot at the Matariki trophy, but only one will rise to the top. We are looking forward to some of the other celebrations for Matariki at this Kura, especially the speech competition and our Matariki kai.
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Country criminals active
By Jon Rawlinson
A wave of burglaries in rural King Country has stretched the long arm of the law.
“There has been a spike in rural burglaries, a recent, noticeable increase, but they do happen regularly,” Ōtorohanga Police Sergeant, Heyden Nunn told The News.
“Rural burglaries come in waves, like there’s a pattern.
It goes on for a while, then we get on top of it and then it seems to start up again down the track.”
The crimes have been spread across the region, at rural properties near Te Kūiti, Piopio and Ōtorohanga.
In general, country crooks focus on outbuildings, rather than risk run-ins with farmers. It’s a case of ‘the usual suspects’ regarding thieves’ wish lists, featuring such high value, portable
items as firearms, tools and vehicles.
“There have been a few anomalies involving commercial premises and rural houses, but they’re mainly breaking into sheds and farm buildings and they take almost anything that’s not bolted down,” Nunn said.
Wet, dark winter nights see more opportunities knocking for burglars.
“It’s probably, in part, due to the time of year. The
Pirongia tree tribute
By Chris Gardner
The work of Pirongia Heritage and Information Centre foundation and life members the late Murray Walter and his wife Barbara has been recognised with the planting of a golden totara.
The tree was planted at the centre by the Pirongia Heritage and Information Centre Committee on June 10 to celebrate the Walters’ contribution. The couple were involved with the moving of the old St Saviour’s Church, once sited on the Alexandra Constabulary Redoubt on Bellot Street, to its present site at 798 Franklin Steet in 2000.The church was moved back from the Waikeria Village.
weather makes it easier because, when it’s bucketing with rain, farmers can’t hear or see as much outside.”
While some burglaries are expected to be connected to one another, the recent rash is probably not the handiwork of one group alone, Nunn said.
“It’s not like there’s an organised criminal syndicate. It’s likely to be different people involved in different areas, but we’re still trying to work that out.”
Earlier this year, a spate of burglaries targeting businesses in Ōtorohanga led council and police to close ranks. Establishing a coordinated CCTV network has since been the aim and a similar move could help farmers, Nunn said.
“Yes, it’s part of the plan. I’ll be putting it forward as one of the options we can offer farmers. Hopefully, they’ll be willing to buy into it if we have some specific targeted areas we can focus on.”
In the meantime, vigilance is crucial.
“Farmers should take a moment to review their existing security measures, including whether they can secure things a bit tighter to deter people,” said Nunn. “It is a good time for them all to be thinking about security.”
Paewira hearings underway
By Chris Gardner
The board of inquiry hearing Global Contracting Solutions’ application to build the Paewira Energy-from-Waste plant in Te Awamutu visited the site yesterday. (Wednesday).
Board of inquiry chair Environment Court Judge Brian Dwyer was joined by accredited Resource Management Act hearings commissioner Nicholas Manukau and air quality specialist Myles McCauley for the visit to the Racecourse Road site.
Hamilton-based Global Contracting Solutions plans to truck 150,000 tonnes of rubbish into the plant to burn and turn into steam and create energy.
The proposal has attracted more than 1000 submissions with the vast majority opposed, including objections from mana whenua, DairyNZ, Fonterra, Te Awamutu-Kihikihi Community Board and Waipā District Council.
About 64 per cent of submissions expressed concerns about pollutants, including dioxins and nanoparticles, and there were concerns about the lack of a health impact assessment.
The hearing is expected to end on July 4.
An artist’s impression of the proposed plant.
Pirongia Heritage and Information Centre committee members, from left, Nick Van der Sande, Charlie Coles, Te Mihinga Komene, Ros Empson, Buck Macky, Jenny Mortland, Brent Mealing, Marilyn Yeates, and groundsman Robert McWha pictured at the planting ceremony.
Fieldays: selling in the rain
By Chris Gardner
It was the worst weather Fieldays has had in its 57 years history – but the crowds still came.
Ticket sales were up 4000 on last year and 110,000 people, buoyed by high dairy and meat prices, came through the gates of the southern hemisphere’s largest agricultural trade show.
“One hundred and ten thousand is a good number, a strong number,’ said New Zealand National Fieldays Society chief executive Richard Lindroos. That’s not all that was up on last year.
Lindroos said 23 embassies were represented at this year’s event, up from 17 last year. A total of 1054
visitor visas were processed, up from 250 last year.
Ninety-two schools visited, up from 57 last year.
Lindroos said it felt like the event had recovered after the Covid pandemic.
“It was the worst weather we’ve ever had,” said Giltrap AgriZone managing director Andew Giltrap of his 42nd Fieldays held between Wednesday and Saturday at Mystery Creek Events Centre.
Before the event Giltrap, whose agricultural dealership has branches in Cambridge, Ōtorohanga, Rotorua and Taupō, was hoping it would be in the top 20 per cent of Fieldays.
But it wasn’t quite there.
“It was a little bit more cautious
than I expected,” Giltrap said. “It was cautiously optimistic.”
Giltrap said Saturday, the day usually reserved for townies, was one of the better days due to the rain clearing up. His team spent this week on post Fieldays follow up with prospective clients.
Ōhaupō dairy farmer Andrew Reymer marked 50 years of the Fieldays Tractor Pull competition as overall winner of the Pre-1985 six to nine tonne tractor class with his newly imported 2805 Massey Ferguson from Minesota.
“There was only three of us in it,” Reymer said. “It was not really a great win. There was a lot of luck involved.”
Nevertheless, Reymer was happy with his first place having come second in 1987 and not competed for 10 years.
Reymer spent time at the Waikato Federated Farmers rural advocacy breakfast and running the organisation’s stand.
Hamilton’s St Paul’s Collegiate School’s KiwiPrune team of Madeleine Anderson, Courtney Malloy, Libby Meredith, and Casey Purves won the Fieldays Young Innovator Award for entrants 19 years old and under.
KiwiPrune was designed and developed to simplify the labourintensive task of removing the plastic clips used to secure the Kiwi
fruit vine. The device is designed to remove clips from kiwifruit vines on orchards, improving productivity, reducing strain, and enhancing sustainability.
The award entry came as part of coursework for the AgriBusiness in Schools programme.
Predator Free New Zealand’s Trust provided advice to hundreds of people throughout the event.
“People were really hungry for information,” said Predator Free NZ programme manager Bridget McShelly.
“We were really pleased with how engaged everyone was. Big farms and small farms and everyone in between.”
Winners of the Tractor Pull competition, from left Trent Hickford (Palmerston North), Wally Sinton (Cambridge), Thomas Fare (Te Awamutu) and Andrew Reymer (Ōhaupō). Photo: Stephen Barker
Inside Mystery Creek Pavilion on day three of Fieldays. Photo: Mary Anne Gill
Fieldays always brings leaders from around the region together – including, from left, John Robertson (Waitomo), Adrienne Wilcock (Matamata-Piako), Jenni Vernon (Fieldays chair), Pamela Storey (Waikato Regional Council), Susan O’Regan (Waipā), Richard Lindroos (Fieldays CEO), Paula Southgate (Hamilton).
Kōkako’s flight is delayed
By Chris Gardner
The official welcome for the first of up to 20 adult kōkako to be introduced to Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari was held before they arrived last week.
Heavy rain delayed the flight of the kōkako, who are being brought south from the Hunua Range and began arriving this week. Six were released on Monday.
Waipā mayor Susan O’Regan, speaking at the powhiri last week said it was a moment of deep significance — “not only for our environment, but for the relationships that underpin this kaupapa”.
Her council with Waikato Regional Council have been funding stalwarts of the project since day one.
O’Regan acknowledged mana whenua, the iwi of Hunua and Maungatautari, whose aroha for the taonga species made translocation possible.
Auckland council and the Hunua iwi Ngāti Paoa, Ngāti Tamaoho, Ngāi Tai ki Tāmaki, Ngāti Whanaunga and Ngāti Tamaterā restored kōkako populations one breeding pair in the Hunua Ranges in the 1990s to more than 250 pairs today.
“That is an extraordinary achievement,” O’Regan said.
“Your mahi, and the gift of these manu, is deeply respected. Here on Maungatautari, kōkako were first reintroduced in 2015 and 2016, generously gifted by Ngāti Rereahu from Pureora. Since then, the population has flourished — now the fastest-growing mainland population in Aotearoa.”
O’Regan described Maungatautari as a beacon of biodiversity success.
Since the fence was completed in 2006 and pests eradicated, 15 native species had been reintroduced. More than 560 kiwi were on the maunga helping to establish or boost populations across the North Island. Twentyfive takahē chicks have been raised there and the booms of kākāpō were heard here in summer for the first time on the North Island for a century.
“All of this is only possible through a truly unique model — a partnership between mana whenua, landowners, community, and conservationists. I want to acknowledge and thank the Maungatautari mana whenua — Ngāti Korokī Kahukura, Ngāti Hauā, Raukawa, and Waikato-Tainui — and the
entire Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari whānau, including staff, volunteers, supporters, and funders.” Maungatautari is licensed
to receive 20 kōkako. Moving the kōkako to different parts of the North Island has challenges. The bird is known to
develop its own regional dialects and females prefer males with a song they recognise from their area. But the males are quick
learners – a flock introduced into a Taranaki conservation estate in 2019 from Hauturu – Little Barrier Island - soon picked up the local dialect.
Project Lead Miranda Bennett and Janelle Ward at this week’s release on Maungatautari.
Photo: Tania Wilkinson
In and out...international flights return
By Mary Anne Gill
When Jetstar chief executive Stephanie Tully walked through the international arrivals’ doors at Hamilton Airport on Monday, she admitted she was “nearly” in tears.
Welcoming her and other VIP guests from the inaugural Jetstar JQ165 flight from Sydney were Te Awamutu Intermediate School’s kapa haka group and representatives of Ngāti Hauā.
“I think I’m tired and emotional but it’s just so beautiful,” said Tully. “There is just so much of the New Zealand culture that I just think is incredible.”
Tully, who is building a home in the South Island, said as the flight approached the airport, she noticed how green the grass was.
The flight path took the plane south of Mt Karioi, just north of Ngāhinapōuri, around Hamilton city, turning south at Puketaha and down past Hamilton Gardens and over the Waikato River onto the runway.
“One of our team said it’s the best grass we’ve ever landed into. It’s a beautiful part of the world.
“It was a beautiful landing, our pilots did an awesome job, it was very smooth, and we were all happy to be on time as we always are. It’s 13 years in the making.”
The flight, crewed by a Sydney-based team including four New Zealanders, had a quick turnaround leaving an hour later for the return trip to Australia, marked Jetstar’s return to Hamilton after 13 years.
“I love New Zealand
and seeing that incredible display of culture (at the airport)… I couldn’t have asked for a better welcome.
“I’ve been to a lot of rugby games, but I’ve never seen it that close and the young kids. The diversity of the race and just so much passion.”
Asked later by The News whether Jetstar would add domestic flights into Hamilton, she would not be drawn.
“It’s always an opportunity we’re assessing but I have nothing to announce,” she said other than she always supported growth.
“We’re here for the long run. We’ve very excited about another gateway into the North Island.”
Also on the flight were Susan O’Regan and Paula Southgate, mayors from Waipā and Hamilton, airport chief executive Mark Morgan and Jetstar executive manager commercial planning Lyle Brownscombe. There to greet them was Biosecurity and Food Safety minister Andrew Hoggard. Absent due to a family engagement was associate Transport minister James Meager whose name was on the plaque which would be added to others at Waharoa (entranceway) to the Hamilton Kirikiriroa Airport terminal.
O’Regan said the flights were a “shot in the arm” for Waipā and the Waikato.
“It makes that connection to Australia just that much more attainable and affordable.
It makes the world seem a whole lot smaller and it’s wonderful not having to battle traffic going into Auckland.”
Hamilton mayor Paula
Southgate said the flights would bring families and people closer together.
“Let’s be honest we all have friends and family in Australia,” she said.
Hoggard said good measures were in place to ensure no pests or diseases came through via the Hamilton border.
“I don’t believe there’s be any difference between here and anywhere else in New Zealand.” Hamilton would have the same processes and standards, he said.
Jetstar will run seven trans-Tasman services a week out of Hamilton: three return flights to and from the Gold Coast, and four return flights between Hamilton and Sydney.
Jetstar flights will add capacity for more than 100,000 international passengers each year and pour an extra $45 million annually into the Waikato economy. More than 60 new airpo
rt-based jobs have already been created, and the tourism spend is expected to open the door for around 300 new jobs.
The airport is owned by five councils – Hamilton, Waikato, Matamata-Piako, Waipā and Ōtorohanga – who approved the $75 million spend on upgrading the terminal to cater for international flights.
Airport chief executive Mark Morgan said the councils would get a return on their investment through the $45 million a year economic benefit.
“It’s almost cheap at the price,” he said.
Scott Mouat (B.Chiro)
Alana Sherman (B.Chiro)
Sydney-bound were this family from Hamilton, from left Delani, Mark, Arthur and Maree Thomas, Jaxtyn Danrell, Brodie Thomas, Amy Synes and Katie Coxhead. Photos: Mary Anne Gill, see more cambridgenews.nz
Taking it in, from left Hamilton Airport CEO Mark Morgan, Biosecurity and Food Safety minister Andrew Hoggard, Hamilton and Waipā mayors Paula Southgate and Susan O’Regan and Jetstar chief executive Stephanie Tully. See more teawamutunews.nz
At Hamilton Airport to greet the flight were Molly Martin from Hobbiton, left, and Julia Jeanplong from Zealong Tea Estate.
Waitete books semi place
By Norris Woodbine
A thirty minute first half period of total domination proved to be enough to propel the Waitete premier rugby side into the King Country club semifinals.
But Tongariro United made it a close fought battle before losing 24–20 at the Maniapoto Rugby ground on Saturday.
After a 10 minutes opening stanza dominated by the visitors which saw Cam Robinson slot an early penalty to give his side a 3–0 lead it was Waitete who flicked a switch and launched an all-out assault for the remainder of the half.
From the restart after the penalty Phayzen Marshall counter attacked from a misdirected bomb and sent Baven Brown Jnr clear down the embankment touchline and when he kicked ahead a wall of blue attackers tore through in support and Rico Bell dashed in for a try.
Callum Hedley slotted the conversion and was called upon again soon after the resumption as the Waitete pack surged across beside the posts with Jared Crosland credited with the try at the bottom of the melee.
By now the Waitete pack
had total domination with Ryan Joyes, Michael Lea and Livai Too’ofua out scrummaging a larger pack allowing their side to camp within the Tongariro 22.
The assault continued and when Brown Jnr crossed in the corner after 30 minutes and a big score looked likely when Hedley nailed the sideline conversion.
Only resolute defence from the visitors prevented further scoring as Marshall sent a raking 50-22 kick into their red zone and the half was completed with Waitete ahead 21 – 3.
After the break the game descended into something of an arm wrestle as Tongariro attempted a comeback and the zip seemed to go out of the Waitete pack.
Hedley slotted a handy penalty to extend the lead and when he missed a second from a handy angle Tongariro appeared to lift and surged up field.
Exciting winger Osea Tuibasa showed extreme speed and side-stepping skills to race away for a try which Robinson converted and soon after huge number 8 Kaharoa TakuiraMita cut through some shoddy defence and suddenly the score was 24 – 15.
When Liam Rowlands latched onto a misfired Waitete defensive line out and dashed away for a try the game was on for one and all at 24–20 as Robinson missed the conversion.
The final five minutes was all Tongariro as they hammered away at the Waitete line and when on the stroke of full-time referee Jamie Bell declared the ball was held up and blew time the jubilation of victory favoured the home side.
Out at Waitomo Domain a solid performance from Piopio saw them run out 46–0 victory over the winless home side who remain anchored to the bottom of the table, while Taupō Marist maintained their number one ranking with a 27–17 win over Taumarunui Eels.
The Waitete women enjoyed a solid 31–17 victory over Pirongia to reinforce a solid place on the ladder.
This week will see Waitete undertake a massive trip to Taupō to play Marist with the number one ranking and the Hetet Shield on the line, Piopio will host Taumarunui Eels while Waitomo have an appointment with Taumarunui Districts down at Taumarunui.
Rugby picks
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Baven Brown Jnr, in action on Saturday, set up Waitete’s opening try.
Peter Hurley (25) Piopio Waitete Taumarunui Districts
Carlos Cressy (28) Piopio Taupo Marist Taumarunui Districts
Craig McKellar (31) Piopio Taupo Marist Taumarunui Districts
Christen Dimond (24) Piopio Waitete Taumarunui Districts
Christen Dimond dropped a point by opting for Waitomo last week – but no one picked Waitete to topple Tongariro.
Making women Hi-Vis
By Jon Rawlinson
By encouraging more young women into a hands-on roles in industry, Ceelia Johny is leading by example.
“Being a woman engineer at The Lines Company (TLC) gives me the opportunity to stand out and show that women can work in the engineering field,” the customer projects engineer said.
TLC, working with Connexis Infrastructure Training, will host a Girls with Hi-Vis (GWHV) event aimed to inspire women to consider roles in industry.
Students from Te Wharekura o Maniapoto school near Te Kūiti will attend the event next Wednesday. As part of her role, Ceelia ensures phone connections are in sound working order.
“When we do a new connection, I focus on is how efficient it is going to be on a network and how it can be most practical for our customer. We have to think outside the box. Women may give a very different viewpoint of certain ways of doing things in the electricity industry.”
The 30-year-old is based in Te Kūiti and is from Dubai. She studied engineering at post graduate level and draws on a background in industrial automation. She has been at TLC since late last year.
“I believe women who are in engineering can be role models. Just seeing someone in a role like this can give young women a confidence boost showing they can achieve even in a male dominated field,” she said.
Overall, 30 per cent of TLC’s workforce is female and the company wants that number to rise.
Ceelia is familiar with initiatives that help young women connect with others who have already made the grade.
“When I was at university, a couple of seniors came to encourage us into fields such as automation. We saw that it’s not as hard as some might think and women can be engineers.
“It’s about sharing experiences as an engineer and ongoing knowledge and developing skill sets in a male-dominated environment. I think it is important to help women gain more confidence to take up engineering as a career.”
Chief executive Mike Fox said participants at next week’s event will hear from female staff about their roles, the journey to where they are and what they encourage participants to take away from the day. They will break into groups hands-on activities and the company’s human resource team will outline roles available across the business and how people can go about applying for them.”
TLC has no female mechanics or electricians and the company is looking to add to its ranks in these frontline positions.
“Ceelia Johny is our most recent recruit into the engineering team and our first female engineer for some years,” Fox said.
“Driving these numbers up and encouraging young women to consider traditionally male dominated roles is precisely why TLC put its hand up to host a Girls with Hi-Vis initiative.”
Lines Company customer projects engineer Ceelia Johny
Waitomo Way
Customer Services and Visitor Hub - your one stop shop
They’re your one stop shop for all Council customer services and visitor information and are more accessible than ever.
Although Waitomo District Council’s customer services have been on the main street of Te Kūiti for some time now, a name refresh and new signage has been warmly welcomed by the team.
Now known as ‘Customer Services and Visitor Hub’, the Rora Street premises offers residents and visitors access to a range of information and services specific to the Waitomo district, and Council.
General Manager Community Services, Helen Beever says the decision to provide more visibility by bringing Council services to the main street of Te Kūiti is working well and the team is always busy.
“They have a hive of information and are always happy to help. They are a one stop shop and can assist with many Council services including rates and dog registration payments, forms and guides, service requests and general Council information.
“The team can also provide visitor and tourism information and can provide ticketing for specific transport services –InterCity buses, Bluebridge and Interislander ferries, and Kiwirail trains.
“They offer local knowledge, advice and contacts to help you get the most from your visit to our district.” Their help also goes beyond business opening hours.
WDC’s Customer Services and Visitor Hub is open weekdays
30 June deadline for Rates Rebate Scheme
Eligible ratepaters have until 3pm on 30 June to apply for the rates rebate scheme.
The maximum rates rebate available to a ratepayer for their home on 1 July 2024 is $790.
The entitlement amount is determined by a combination of your income, amount of rates you’re charged and the number of dependents you have.
For more information or to apply visit our website or call 0800 932 4357.
from 9am to 4pm for in-person help, but customer services can be accessed 24/7 via the freephone 0800 932 4357 and online via Council’s website.
When they’re not serving customers, they are always busy in the background processing service requests and application forms, answering telephone and email queries, and providing information to customers.
Council Meeting Schedule 2025
Local Elections 2025
Local elections are held every three years, and are an oportunity for residents and ratepayers to vote for a Mayor and Councillors.
The elections are your chance to vote for your local representative to influence the decisions Council makes that affect us all.
The next local election will be held on 11 October 2025
Positions in our district include a Mayor and six Councillors - three for Urban Te Kūiti Ward and three for Waitomo Rural Ward.
If you are passionate about our community and have ideas for how to make it even
better, then make your stand for our council.
Candidate nominations open on Friday 4 July 2025 and close at midday on Friday 1 August 2025. Delivery of voting papers to electors will be by post from 9-22 September.
Visit our website for more information.
It’s dog registration time
A friendly reminder to visit the Customer Services and Visitor Hub at 160 Rora Street, Te Kūiti to register your dog/s. You can also pay online, and we will post your dog tags to you. Dog registration fees apply from 1 July 2025 to 30 June 2026. An additional penalty of 50% will apply from 1 August 2025.
The legends behind the event
In Māori tradition, the Pleiades star cluster is known as Matariki, and it holds deep cultural and spiritual significance. Matariki marks the Māori New Year and is celebrated in mid-winter, usually around late June or early July, whenever the cluster first becomes visible before dawn on the eastern horizon.
This time is associated with remembrance, renewal, and planning for the year ahead.
There are several Māori legends associated with Matariki. One of the most well-known tells of the stars as a mother and her daughters. In this version, Matariki is the mother, and her six daughters are: Tipuānuku, Tipuārangi, Waitī, Waitā, Waipunarangi, and Ururangi. Each daughter has a specific role related to the natural world:
Tipuānuku is connected to food grown in the soil, Tipuārangi relates to food from the sky, such as birds, Waitī represents freshwater and the creatures within, Waitā is linked to the ocean and sea life, Waipunarangi is associated with rain, Ururangi represents the winds.
Ngā mihi o Matariki, te tau hou Māori Celebrating
The daughters travel across the sky each year to help their mother prepare the world for the new season, caring for the land, sea, and sky. This myth reflects the deep cultural respect Māori have for the environment, and the interconnectedness of natural elements.
Another legend tells of Tāwhirimātea, the god of weather, who became enraged when his parents, Ranginui (the Sky Father) and Papatūānuku (the Earth Mother), were separated by their children. In his fury, Tāwhirimātea tore out his eyes and cast them into the heavens. These became the stars of Matariki. This story explains not only the origin of the stars but also why Tāwhirimātea is the god of winds and storms - forever wandering the skies in sorrow and anger.
Matariki is traditionally a time for Māori communities to reflect on those who have passed, to celebrate the present with feasting and community gatherings, and to plan for the coming yearparticularly in terms of planting and food production. The brightness and visibility of each star in the cluster were believed to be indicators of the coming season’s success.
In recent years, Matariki has been revived and officially recognised as a public holiday, reinforcing its importance as a celebration of Māori culture, identity, and heritage. The legends of Matariki continue to be shared through storytelling, song, and ceremony, helping future generations connect with Aotearoa’s rich cultural and celestial traditions.
The importance of marae at Matariki
Marae across Aotearoa play a central role in the celebration of Matariki, the Māori New Year, as they are key spaces for cultural gathering, remembrance, and intergenerational connection.
Matariki celebrations on the marae reflect traditional values of whakapapa (genealogy), manaakitanga (hospitality), and whanaungatanga (family and community ties), offering a space where people come together to remember the past, celebrate the present, and look to the future.
One of the most important aspects of Matariki on the marae is remembrance. Many marae hold dawn ceremonies, where kaumatua (elders) lead karakia (prayers) and call out the names of those who have passed in the previous year, sending their spirits to the stars. This ritual is deeply emotional and spiritual, connecting the living with their ancestors and acknowledging the cycles of life and death.
Following the ceremony, the community usually shares kai (food). This is not just about nourishment but also about manaakitanga - welcoming and caring for one another. Traditional meals, often cooked in a hangi (earth oven), are prepared and shared, symbolising gratitude for the earth’s abundance and the importance of communal effort. Storytelling, song, and performance are also key parts of marae-based Matariki celebrations. Kapa haka groups may perform waiata (songs) and haka that honour ancestors, the stars, or themes of renewal. Purakau (traditional stories) are shared, often focusing on the legends of Matariki, helping tamariki (children) and rangatahi (youth) connect with
matauranga Māori (Mori knowledge).
Many marae also incorporate planning and visioning into Matariki events. Hui (meetings) may be held to discuss community goals, upcoming projects, or ways to support the wellbeing of whanau. This aligns with the traditional use of the Matariki stars to predict the coming year’s harvest and weather—interpreted today as a symbolic time to set aspirations.
Crafts, workshops, and learning sessions may also be held on the marae, encouraging skills such as weaving, carving, and celestial navigation, passing knowledge from elders to youth.
Marae celebrations of Matariki are regarded as living expressions of Māori identity and values. They reinforce cultural continuity, foster unity, and honour the spiritual and natural rhythms that guide Māori life.
Kiwa gets to touch gold
By Jesse Wood
Te Kūiti’s Kiwa Rata and Te Awamutu’s Jaoquin Burke were recently part of the New Zealand Under-18 mixed touch gold medal winning side at the Asia Pacific Youth Touch event in Redcliffe, Queensland.
The last time New Zealand won a youth grade gold medal was 2010 at Trusts Stadium in Waitākere.
Rata went through primary school in Te Kūiti before moving to Hamilton Boys’ High School.
Burke is a former Te Awamutu College student that now plays rugby for Te Awamutu Sports.
He said making the squad out of all the youth players in New Zealand meant a lot to him, let alone beating Australia in the final.
“The win meant a lot, not only to me and the team but to the whole country and touch community back at home seeing us take home the gold for the first time in years,” Burke said.
“There were so many emotions going through me as the final whistle blew.
“There was a lot of talk about how Aussie are the best team in the world and haven’t been beaten for 16 years.
“It just shows that no one is unbeatable and if you believe, work hard and push that bit extra, anything is possible.
“But the best part of winning, was bringing that gold back home and back to our country and families.”
Rata and Burke were recognised by their high schools on social media alongside plenty of hype from friends and family.
Peace Cup gets boost
By Norris Woodbine
Rugby’s Peace Cup has traditionally had it tough – after some unsympathetic handling it is considered among the less attractive in New Zealand sport, it went missing for several seasons - and as a symbol of subunion supremacy has lost some allure in the last couple of decades.
But the annual planning meeting of the group responsible for the 2025 Peace Cup held recently in Cambridge came with a real boost.
Organisers revealed they had received an offer to play the final at The Rotorua International Stadium as a curtain raiser for The Fiji- Manu Samoa Pacific Cup test match.
This year will be 105th iteration of the time-honoured trophy and holders Hamilton have agreed to forfeit a home final to allow the competition to proceed with planning to schedule games around a Rotorua final on September 6. Peace Cup chairman Neil Macrae outlined a plan whereby the unions involved would spend four or five weeks of round robin play on a home and away basis throughout August. The top two sides would qualify for the final.
After the call for entries in the 2025 competition, delegates confirmed that Hamilton will be joined by Central Bay of Plenty, Piako and Maniapoto while the Te Awamutu sub union was given an opportunity to confirm entry as well.
Macrae explained that the tournament has remained stable now for several years and perhaps some consideration could now be given to expansion as other representative opportunities for players slowly shrink.
Hamilton delegate Doug Hawkins also suggested some consideration could be given to relaxing some eligibility rules for players to allow smaller unions to field competitive teams.This was received favourably and duly passed unanimously.
The Peace Cup competition remains a great opportunity for players to continue to play after the various club competitions are completed and the overall standard is truly representative quality.
NZTOUCH3: Kiwa Rata in action for the New Zealand under-18 mixed side at Redcliffe. Photo: Touch Blacks
A good volunteer has a blend of personal qualities, skills, and attitudes that can contribute positively to any organisation or cause.
Whether o ering time in a local community project, coaching youth sports, or assisting in a crisis, volunteers play a critical role in creating impact and strengthening community bonds. So what can you o er?
One of the most essential requirements is commitment. Good volunteers understand that their time and presence matter. Whether it’s showing up weekly at a food bank or helping organise a community event, consistency ensures projects run smoothly and other team members are supported.
Reliability builds trust within the organisation and fosters a dependable environment.
Volunteers o en work in challenging conditions, with limited resources and/or demanding schedules. A positive attitude helps upli others and keeps morale high. Being enthusiastic about the work - no matter how big or small the task - can make all the di erence to the success
Why you’d be a great volunteer COMMUNITY MOBILITY VAN
of any endeavour. This energy is o en contagious and helps inspire other volunteers and beneficiaries alike.
Community needs can change quickly, and volunteers may be asked to pivot between di erent roles or tasks. Valuable volunteers embrace change and adapt to new circumstances with a can-do spirit. Flexibility also includes being open to feedback and willing to learn new skills.
Many volunteer roles involve working with the vulnerable, or individuals going through di icult situations.
Empathy enables volunteers to connect meaningfully with others, understand di erent perspectives, and respond with kindness and care.
Compassion builds strong relationships and creates a supportive environment for all involved.
That’s not forgetting volunteering is o en a team e ort, with the ability to cooperate with others, communicating e ectively, and helping achieve shared goals. Being a team player also means stepping up when needed, sharing responsibilities, and celebrating collective success.
Good volunteers are curious and eager to grow. They understand that volunteering is not just about giving time - it’s also a chance to gain new insights, skills, and experiences. Willingness to receive training or take on unfamiliar tasks shows initiative and a proactive mindset.
Volunteers o en work in diverse settings, so respect for others - regardless of background, beliefs, or abilities - is fundamental. A good volunteer promotes inclusivity and makes everyone feel valued and welcome.
Taking ownership of one’s duties, showing integrity, and acting ethically are core to being a valued volunteer. Responsibility includes being honest about availability, following through on commitments, and upholding the values of the organisation.
In short, a good volunteer combines heart and skill, showing up with dedication, humility, and a willingness to help. They understand that every action, no matter how small, contributes to a greater purpose. And that describes most of us who live, work and play in our communities.
CHURCH & TE KUITI FOODBANK
We are open Monday, Wednesday and Friday 11am – 1pm
Closed public holidays
Vouchers for food parcels can be collected from frontline social agencies including Te Küiti Community House and Winz
Please contact via email tkfoodbank@gmail.com and/ or txt 021 254 6868 with your name and address
The 4H Community Trust Board operates a mobility van to assist people in our local community who have trouble getting around.
If you have mobility issues and need a lift to get to an important appointment, we can help you get there on time. Our local mobility van is operated by 4H Community Trust volunteers and is equipped to safely transport wheelchairs.
We would like to thank all of our dedicated volunteers
•Please book at least one day in advance
•To book, phone or text 027 814 4663
•A gold coin donation is appreciated
Across 1. Proposal (5) 4. Document relinquishing a right (6) 8. Bunch (7)
9. Sign up (5)
10. Fish coating (5) 11. Small axe (7) 12. Quirk (6) 14. Layer between earth’s crust and core (6)
Last week
17.
Across: 1. Flora, 4. Betray, 7. Bar, 8. Marina, 9. Option, 10. Pronouncement, 14. Sabre, 15. Brake, 18. Automatically, 23. Winter, 24. Struck, 25. Ice, 26. Mystic, 27. Delay.
Down: 1. Flair, 2. Onion, 3. Abacus, 4. Brooch, 5. Totem, 6. Adorn, 10. Pasta, 11. Orbit, 12. Email, 13. Teeny, 16. Fabric, 17. Biased, 19. Unity, 20. Octet, 21. Aural, 22. Lucky.
RECIPE REDUCE ROAST
SAUCE
SAUTÉ
SEASON SLICE STARTER
STOCK STOVE SWEET TABLE TERRINE TOAST
DEADLINE SALE
1538B State Highway 3, Te Kūiti
Showcasing both rural charm and modern comforts, this 4.6ha (approx) lifestyle landscape with a large modern home and abundant shedding options, is a cut above. With its grand elevation, you’ll be captivated by the breathtaking east facing views of the railway, sunrises and valley below. The modern brick and tile home features four bedrooms, two bathrooms and a large double glazed conservatory flowing off the master bedroom. The centrally positioned wood burner heats the whole home and year round comfort is assured with the DVS brand ventilation system. A modern family home
offering many options for upsizers or those needing a more manageable lifestyle property, where everything is done for you including fencing and water supply. A spacious five-bay lockup shed, equipped with threephase power to the meter-board, provides ample space for your hobbies or work from home projects. Horse enthusiasts will love the dedicated two bay stable with lighting and power, and another lockable two bay concrete floored shed behind the home offers even more storage. Impeccably maintained by its dutiful owners, the property offers an exciting range of possibilities for
various buyers who seek rural bliss while only being a few kilometres to town.
Deadline Sale Closes 9 July 2025 at 1.00pm at Ray White Otorohanga, unless sold prior
View Saturday 21 June, 10.30am - 12.00pm & Sunday 22 June, 12.00 - 1.30pm rwotorohanga.co.nz/OTO30305
Lorraine Fox 027 664 4087
lorraine.fox@raywhite.com
Ōtorohanga sections (sizes are approximate)
Lot 1, 52 Old Te Kuiti Road, Otorohanga, 1876sqm, power and water at gate, no covenants. Ph John P.
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 $199,000
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)
0 State Highway 3, Piopio, 984sqm. Phone Buzz By Negotiation 171 Ngahape Road, Te Kawa, 5001sqm. Phone Cherie
0 Raglan Road, Kawhia, 2648sqm lifestyle section, no covenants,
1961 SH31 Kawhia Road, Otorohanga, 16.95ha, bikes,
Kawhia Road, SH31, Oparau
Team Kerry & Karen
Kerry Harty 027 294 6215
kjharty@harcourts.co.nz
Karen Lennox 027 559 4468
karen.lennox@harcourts.co.nz
Turn the key to Te Kumi
This solid 1920s home presents a fantastic opportunity - whether you're after a smart investment or taking your first step onto the property ladder. The 85 m2 home offers three bedrooms, a combined bath, shower, and toilet, plus a separate laundry for added convenience. A firebox keeps things cosy during the cooler months, while town water supply and electric hot water ensure practicality and ease. Set on a 736 m2, level section, there's plenty of outdoor space to enjoy, even though the home is located on a main driveway - something to consider depending on your preferences. A single carport provides sheltered parking, and there's room behind the house to park a campervan.
Te Kuiti 47 Te Kumi Road
Piopio 2 Kuku Street
Te Kuiti 7 Lawrence Street
Mahoenui 7 Gribbon Road
Piopio 9 Kuku Street
Otorohanga 348 Te Kuiti Road
Te Kuiti 4 Carroll Street
Piopio 4 Kiwi Street
Specialists
027 554 8248
Main North Rd, Ōtorohanga P 07 873 6364
Septic Tank Cleaning
• Emptying septic tanks
• CCTV pipeline inspection
• Jetting drainage pipelines
• Spreading animal effluent
Waitomo Liquid Waste Disposal 021 111 3911
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
• 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
• Small digger for all your landscaping needs
• Vegetation removal
• Driveway prep - Auger • Trenching
• Water tanks • levelling sections & more Manga Roach 027 431 9959
TRADE PROFESSIONALS
DAIRY SPECIALIST • DOMESTIC COMMERCIAL • INDUSTRIAL
Grounds Caretaker Wanted Part-Time (25 Hours/Week)
Ōtorohanga College is seeking a reliable and proactive
Grounds Caretaker to join our team. This part-time role (25 hours per week) involves maintaining the College grounds to a high standard, including lawn care, general tidying, garden maintenance and minor repairs.
We are looking for someone who:
• Has experience in groundskeeping or outdoor maintenance
• Is practical, self-motivated and takes pride in their work
• Demonstrates good attention to health and safety procedures
• Can work independently and as part of a small team
Start Date: July 14, 2025 Join a friendly, supportive College community and help keep our grounds looking great all year round.
To apply or for more information, please contact: The Principal Ōtorohanga College phone: 07 873 8029
Email your cover letter and CV to: kurthl@otocoll.school.nz Applications close: July 3
Buildings Caretaker Wanted Part-Time (25 Hours/Week)
Ōtorohanga College seeks a reliable and proactive Buildings Caretaker to join our team. This part-time role (25 hours per week) involves the day-to-day upkeep and security of the College’s buildings, including minor repairs and preventative maintenance, opening/closing and securing buildings, monitoring heating, lighting and alarm systems and liaising with external contractors as required.
We are looking for someone who:
• Has experience in building maintenance or property services
• Is practical, self-motivated and takes pride in their work
• Demonstrates good attention to health and safety procedures
• Can work independently and as part of a small team
Start Date: July 14, 2025 Become part of a supportive College community and help ensure our facilities remain safe, clean and inviting.
SPECIAL MEETING FOR OWNERS/BENEFICIARIES OF KINOHAKU WEST DD1
13 July 2025 1pm Te Korapatu Paa Agenda
Removal of Current Trustees
Election of Future Trustees
Variation of Trust Order
General Business
Inquiries to Miriama Karena 3 Vi Taha Lane Ngaruawahia 021 913 346
Calling for expressions of interestpart-time fixed term for student support roles.
School visits welcome, phone Tamae Dimond for more information on 022 625 9776 or email principal@waitomocaves.school.nz
TEACHER AIDE WANTED
25
HOURS A WEEK
DAIRY SPECIALIST • DOMESTIC COMMERCIAL • INDUSTRIAL
DAIRY SPECIALIST • DOMESTIC COMMERCIAL • INDUSTRIAL
DAIRY SPECIALIST • DOMESTIC COMMERCIAL • INDUSTRIAL
David Knight - 027 722 4857
David Knight - 027 722 4857
David Knight - 027 722 4857
David Knight - 027 722 4857
Steve Knight - 027 598 2005
Steve Knight - 027 598 2005
Steve Knight - 027 598 2005
Steve Knight - 027 598 2005
Tai Dundas - 027 598 2115
Tai Dundas - 027 598 2115
Tai Dundas - 027 598 2115
Tai Dundas - 027 598 2115
Ōtorohanga - 07 873 6385
To apply or for more information, please contact: The Principal Ōtorohanga College phone: 07 873 8029 Email your cover letter and CV to: kurthl@otocoll.school.nz - Applications close: July 3
Do you want to work in a collaborative environment?
Ōtorohanga - 07 873 6385
Te Kūiti - 07 878 5169
Taupo - 07 378 8545
Ōtorohanga - 07 873 6385 Te Kūiti - 07 878 5169 Taupo - 07 378 8545
Ōtorohanga - 07 873 6385
Te Kūiti - 07 878 5169 Taupo - 07 378 8545
Te Kūiti - 07 878 5169 Taupo - 07 378 8545
SERVICING THE KING COUNTRY 24 HOURS, 7 DAYS A WEEK
SERVICING THE KING COUNTRY
SERVICING THE KING COUNTRY 24 HOURS, 7 DAYS A WEEK
7 DAYS A WEEK
SERVICING THE KING COUNTRY 24 HOURS, 7 DAYS A WEEK
&
Dave Rowe Painter & Decorator 027 290 8776 decorator@daverowe.co.nz
Servicing the Waipa and Waitomo districts for over 20 years
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.
Whanau Ora – Kaiwhiriwhiri / Navigator Full time 12-month fixed term role Te Kuiti
TaumarunuiCommunityKokiriTrustisaKaupapa Māori health provider. Alongside our Whanau Ora services, we also provide Primary and Secondary services based in Taumarunui, Te Kūiti, Te Awamutu and Tokoroa.
We are looking for passionate and committed Whanau Ora Kaiwhiriwhiri/Navigators to work in our Te Kuiti site to walk alongside whanau as they navigate challenges and opportunities
The ideal candidate will have:
• A strong understanding of Kaupapa Maori Values and Whanau Ora approaches
• Ability to assess needs and develop solutions and strategies
• Ability to navigate systems and advocate for whanau
• Excellent communication, collaboration and planning skills
• Full drivers licence
Qualifications in Social and Health Services, Maori health or Community are highly desirable but not essential we welcome candidates with lived experience or previous work experience
If this is the position you have been waiting for Submit CV with Cover letter to: jobs@kokiritrust.org.nz
Te Kūiti & District Historical Charitable Trust
AGM
Sunday 29th June 2025@ 3.00pm Staffroom
123 Rora Street - Te Kūiti (Access via Taupiri Street)
Nominations are open for two trustees
Nominations forms can be uplifted from the museum or email tekuitimuseumandgallery@gmail.com
Closing 26th June 2025 – Address to the Secretary Light supper provided • NEW MEMBERS WELCOME
Notice of upcoming meetings of Ōtorohanga District Council
Details of upcoming meetings can be found at www.otodc.govt.nz/aboutcouncil/meetings
Tanya Winter Chief Executive
www.otodc.govt.nz
Public Notice of decisions on the proposed Waitomo District Plan
In accordance with clauses 10 and 11 of Schedule 1 of the Resource Management Act 1991 (RMA), the Waitomo District Council gives public notice of the decision made on 19 June 2025 on the provisions and matters raised in submissions on the Proposed Waitomo District Plan.
On and from the date of this notice (19 June 2025), the Proposed Waitomo District Plan is amended in accordance with the Decisions Version.
The Decision Reports and Decisions Version may be viewed online and downloaded from waitomo.govt.nz/council/ district-plan-review/
You can also view them at:
Main office - 15 Queen Street, Te Kūiti Customer Services and Visitor Hub - 160 Rora Street, Te Kūiti
• Waitomo District Library - 28 Taupiri Street, Te Kūiti
Clause 14 of Schedule 1 of the RMA establishes who can appeal the decisions. Any appeal must be made in the prescribed form, lodged with the Environmental Court within 30 working days of service of the notice of decisons and served in the prescribed manner.
For further details, please refer to the contact details below.
Ben Smit
Chief Executive 19 June 2025
Waitomo District Council 0800 932 4357 info@waitomo.govt.nz www.waitomo.govt.nz
Kia Hiwa Rā, Kia Hiwa Rā! Nau Mai Haere Mai
Meeting of Owners of
Te Kawa A8A2
19 July 2025 at 12pm,Kaputuhi Marae
81 Waitomo Caves Road,Hangatiki
Agenda:
• Meeting Opens / Karakia
• Whakawhanaungatanga
• Trust Review / Background
• Appointment of/Change of Trustees
• Meeting Closure / Karakia
Enquiries to:
Donna Tarawa 021 02962788 or Tui Ashe on 0211636405
PROPOSED ROAD CLOSURE
Notice is hereby given that Ōtorohanga District Council proposes to consider temporarily closing the following roads to enable Targa NZ to hold a tarmac rally on Thursday 16th October 2025.
SS11 Start on Mangare Road (250mtrs from Rotongata Road) – past Landing Road (no exit) – past Huirimu Road - onto Pukewhau Road. Finish on Pukewhau Road (300m from intersection with Waipapa Road). Date: 16 October 2025 Time 10.05am – 2.35pm
SS12 Start: on Wairehi Road (3000mtrs from its intersection with Waipapa Road) - past Taupaki Road - past Aotearoa Road, onto Ngaroma Road - past Waipari Road (no-exit) - past Mangawhio Road (noexit) - past Tolley Road (no exit), onto Bayley Road - past Wynyard Road (no exit) - past Hingaia Road. Finish on Bayley Road (100m from its intersection with Loop Road) Date:16 October 2025 Time 10.40am –3.10pm
SS13 Start: on Mangatutu Road (200 meters from its intersection with Wharepūhunga Road) - past Pamotumotu Road (no exit) - past Grice Road (no exit) - past Wall Road (no exit) - past Millard Road (no exit) - past Pukemapou Road (no exit) – onto Maihiihi Road - past Hoddle Road (no-exit) - past Paewhenua Road - onto Tauraroa Valley Road - onto Ōtewā Road – past Waimahora Road (no exit) - past Barber Road - past Tahaia Road. Finish at house number 935 Ōtewā Road Date: 16 October 2025 Time 12.40pm –5.10pm
SS14 Start: on Mangamahoe Road (400mtrs from its intersection with Kāwhia Road SH39), onto Honikiwi Road – past Te Raumauku Road (no exit) – past Bromley Road (no exit) - onto Turitea Road – onto Kāwhia Road (S H31) – past Hikurangi Road (no exit). Finish on Kāwhia Road 100m before the intersection with Ngutunui Road. Date: 16 October 2025 Time 1.30pm – 6.00pm - NOTE Ōtorohanga District Council does not control the closure of SH31.
SS15 Start: on Harbour Road (400mtrs from its intersection with Kāwhia Road SH31), past Te Kauri Rd (no-exit), past Berntsen Road (no exit), past Hauturu Road, past Rakaunui Road (no exit), past Whenuaapo Road (no exit), past Waipuna Road (no exit), past Owhiro Road (no exit), into Waitomo District, continuing Harbour Rd, onto Te Waitere Road, onto Tahoroa Road, Finish on Tahoroa Road 150m before the intersection with Te Anga Road Date: 16 October 2025 Time 21.30pm – 6.00pm - NOTE Ōtorohanga District Council does not control the closure of roads outside the district.
Pursuant to the Transport (Vehicular Tra c Road Closure) Regulations 1965, any person objecting to the proposal is called upon to lodge notice of their objection and grounds thereof in writing before 4.00pm Thursday 10 July 2025 at the o ces of the Ōtorohanga District Council, 17 Maniapoto Street, Ōtorohanga or by email to: andrea@otodc.govt.nz
TE KUMI MARAE AGM
When: July 12, 2025 commencing at 10am.
Where: Te Kumi Whare, Main Rd SH3, Te Kūiti.
Who: For the descendants of Kiritahanga Te Kaama Totorewa and Te Manukura Mahuki and members of Ngāti Kinohaku hapū who affiliate to Te Kumi Marae. Also, the Trustees of the land block Te Kumi A27.
Agenda:
Annual Financial Report
Chairperson's Report
Appointment of Trustees
General Business
Any nominations for trustees or items for general business to be sent to secretary@tekumipaa.co.nz
FRIDAY, 27th June 2025 at Maniapoto House, 51 Taupiri Street, TE KUITI
Quota Club Inc
Taupiri St, Te Kūiti
Notice to all members AGM 12 noon Saturday, June 28, 2025
Doors will be locked at 11:50am
AGENDA: Apologies
Minutes of 2024 AGM
Consideration of President’s report
Financial statement for the year ending March 31, 2025
Election of life members
Election of auditor
General business
Courtesy van available from 11.15 am – Please pre-register A light lunch will be provided after the conclusion of the meeting.
PLEASE NOTE: No vote is required for the committee as the committee now stands for a 2-year term.
(Please refer to Section 12.3, Term
The Ngāti Maniapoto Marae PACT Trust (Inc.)
WARETINI, Mack Tineti –
Allnewfarmingfamiliesespecially welcome 28TH ANNUAL FARMERS EVENT & OTO EXPO COME AND CELEBRATE 28 YEARS OF THIS EVENT!
Held at the Ōtorohanga Club
ALL FARMERS & BUSINESS PEOPLE WELCOME
other enquiries, please contact Teresa Cooper @ Bailey Ingham Ltd 07 873 7325 or email teresa@baileyingham.co.nz
• Engagements
• Weddings
• Births
• Anniversaries
• Bereavements
• In Memoriam etc Call Janine 027 287 0005 or email janine@goodlocal.nz
St Peter’s By The Sea, 25 Aria Tce, Mōkau 1st and 3rd Sunday 2pm
No later than 12.15pm
Special Entry A/c P & P Voyce (Farm Leased- Capital Stock) 400 Shorn Romney 4th ewes 300 Shorn Romney 6th ewes RW SouthSu olk Polled Dorset Texel x rams 25th March – 18th
SAVE THE DATE Wednesday, 19th November 2025 Te Tokanganui - ā - Noho Maori Womens Welfare League WinterHamperJ.TeMoananui
THANK YOU KeiranCressyandteam atGeneralAutomotive andDeiselLTD.Toyota FunCargohasticked over70,0000KMS. Amazing,ValParry Family Notices
On behalf off the Waretini whanau, we would like to extend our heartfelt thanks and deep appreciation to all the individuals who helped make Macks final farewell possible. To V J Williams staff - thank you for your professionalism and compassion during this difficult time. Your attention to detail and thoughtful support has brought great comfort to our whanau. To the two ministers – thank you for your karakia, blessing and service. To our ringawera who worked tirelessly behind the scenes preparing our kai - your mahi will be talked about with love and never forgotten. Thank you to everyone that contributed koha, flowers and kai – your generosity has humbled our whanau and you all will hold a special place in our hearts. Please accept this as a personal acknowledgment as we don’t have all return details. Once again, we thank everyone for the support through this sad time. This support has given our whanau the strength to carry on as Mack would have wanted. Arohanui, Waretini whanau.
go through it alone. Our local, caring, and supportive team provides expert guidance with warmth and respect.
Reach out 24/7
Helen Carter Funeral Director
