Into the light
By Mary Anne Gill
It was one of those spiritual moments that even hardened atheists would appreciate.
As the sun rose on Easter Sunday over St Paul’s in Rangiaowhia, parishioners inside the historic church celebrated Service of the Light.
They could see the years of fundraising and sacrifice that went into restoring the stained glass windows at the eastern end of the building.
Rev Julie Guest’s figure became a silhouette as sunlight streamed through the windows onto the altar while she prepared for communion.
“The man who put these windows in said it made the light dynamic,” Guest told the congregation at the service which also doubled as a rededication for the stained glass altar windows.
The windows have been refurbished at least four times.
Before 2023, the last refurbishment was 30 years ago.
Originally imported in 1855 from Britain by Bishop George Selwyn, they were housed in the Gothic Revival church at Rangiaowhia.
Two of the windows depict St Paul’s encounter with a magician which, according to Heritage New Zealand, may reflect hopes for Christian victory over the perceived ‘supernatural’ traditional beliefs of the church’s then predominantly Māori congregation.
Each window was removed 16 months ago and taken to
Christchurch where Stewart Stained Glass meticulously cleaned and restored them.
The church is part of the Parish of St John’s which owns two Heritage New Zealand category one buildings – St Paul’s and old St John’s in Te Awamutu. St John’s opened in 1854 and St Paul’s two years later.
Guest is the parish priest while lay minister Christine Bryant is also a handy organist who played the hymns on Easter Sunday with great gusto during the light service.
Corflute replicas had been installed in the windows’ place.
Guest said many people could not tell the difference while they were up, but they would have that morning, she said, as she showed them to The News in their storage space and wondered what would happen to them now.
The Service of the Light is part of the Easter Vigil which starts – either the night before Easter Sunday or as a sunrise service on the day – and in silence outside the darkened church.
At St Paul’s, Guest’s husband Andrew lit a small fire on the lawn away from the wooden church while Paul Bryant, husband of lay minister Christine, brought the Paschal Candle in to be lit.
In the eastern distance a misty cloud hung over Maunga Maungatautari.
The candle traditionally symbolises Jesus Christ rising from the dead and the congregation each had their own candles which they lit from the larger one and carried into the church filling it with light
before sunrise at 6.49am.
“We thank you (God) that they are now fully restored, ready to bring life to your light in this place for decades to come,” said Guest at the rededication part of the service. She also paid tribute to Colin Downes from the parish who with a team rebuilt the arches around the windows so they could be held more securely in place.
Before her sermon she noted how things had changed in a year – then Trust Board chair Alan Empson made one of the readings – he died in May last year.
Rev Keith Storey was there in Easter 2024 too and he died in September with donations in lieu of a memorial service going to the St Paul’s Restoration Fund and the stained glass windows.
His plaque is outside the church with others of the Storey family, including his wife Delysse who died two years before.
Tia Ormsby van Selm from Ngāti Apakura was at the service and afterwards told The News of how Ngāti Apakura and Ngāti Hinetū iwi now wanted to build a wharenui (traditional Māori meeting house) at Rangiaowhia as part of a process of self-determination and cultural revitalisation.
The Anglican Church bought a 4.7ha property next to the church three years ago and transferred the deed to Ngāti Apakura to support the tribe’s vision to make Rangiaowhia a thriving settlement again.
The silhouetted figure of Rev Julie Guest in front of the restored stained glass windows as the sun rises over St Paul’s in Rangiaowhia.
Photo: Mary Anne Gill
Continued on page 2
Fresh air
I support Ange Holt’s “Board Chair’s lament” (The News, April 10). As usual, Ange Holt is a breath of fresh air, and not afraid to challenge the “establishment” and represent those who bother to try and submit to council. Conflicts of interest procedures are so often misunderstood. The lower law is to declare your conflict of interest and then be muzzled. The higher law is to declare your conflict of interest, and then, do your best to set it aside, and consider the community viewpoint as a whole. This allows you to speak on the matter factually and impartially to assist everyone’s understanding, and to be subject to intense questions from the chair, councillors, board members, and staff. Setting aside their conflict of interest, the conflicted person makes a vote for the community as a whole. This higher way was advised by a lawyer well respected in governance matters. With this higher way, when a “conflict of interest” arises, we voters get what we voted for - a person who has likely been elected because they are committed to do things, participate in community groups and listen to all those who have concerns. With the current lower way, someone with a conflict of interest and lots of knowledge on the matter, is effectively muzzled in a meeting, and voters, and the community, miss out.
On the beat with
Bring on the mayor’s, CEO and council committee chairs’ review. Murray Downs, Te Awamutu
Maintenance needed I think maintenance at the Waipā War Memorial Park is all that is needed for the park seats and chain link fence, not replacement (The News, April 10). They are very well made and all they need is a clean and a paint. The chain link fence is very good strong steel. The eyesore is the gate if that was replaced it would look 100%. Council staff do not seem to want to listen to councillors, ratepayers, public. Council should be prudent with spending money on unnecessary items.
Compare the seats at other parks like ANZAC Green, the Rose Gardens, Selwyn Park, Rewi Maniapoto Reserve (Kihikihi), Walk of Fame and I-Site. Most are in need of a good clean and a paint job which is maintenance. Although not a ratepayer in Waipā, as Arohena is mostly in Ōtorohanga district, Arohena has seven names engraved at the Waipa War Memorial although 10 men from Arohena lost their lives in WWII.
Other places like Ngaroma and Kāwhia are also not in Waipā but have names of their dead engraved at the park so it is special to many people and communities around Te Awamutu.
Constable Ryan Fleming
Watch out for social media
Into the light
Continued from page 1
Rangiaowhia was a Māori economic heartland - with a racecourse, courthouse and mills which processed wheat and other produce for the Auckland market - before it was invaded by British troops in 1864 during the New Zealand Land Wars. All that survived was St Paul’s Church. • More photos teawamutunews.nz
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I hope you had a good long weekend. As usual last week was a busy week in Te Awamutu.
As a result of a social media post regarding an incident at a supermarket, police had members of the public come forward with complaints which resulted in an arrest and charges relating to intimidating behaviour and wilful damage.
I often find myself saying this: Don’t believe everything you see on social media.
There is always more to a story and sadly as a result of this particular post it has had a negative impact on an innocent party (the supermarket) who had a duty of care to ensure the safety of their staff and customers.
Friday is Anzac Day. A day we are reminded of the courage, sacrifice, and resilience of those who served our country.
It’s a time for communities across New Zealand to come together, honour our
history, and reflect on the freedoms we enjoy today.
Te Awamutu will hold its annual Anzac Day service. The Dawn Parade will be held at the Sunken Cross War memorial, Mutu Street at 6am.
Ex service personnel will parade outside the RSA Clubroom, 381 Alexandra Street, Te Awamutu at 5.45am. The civic parade is at 11am at Anzac Green. I encourage all residents to attend and pay their respects. Whether you have a direct connection to the armed forces or simply wish to show support, your presence is a powerful tribute to the legacy of our servicemen and women. Gather your family, wear a poppy, and join us in remembrance. Remember if you are wearing a family member’s medals they are to be worn on the right side of your chest.
Let’s stand together as a community — united in gratitude and committed to never forgetting.
Maria Blackwell, Arohena (Abridged)
After the Service of the Light service, Rev Julie Guest, right, and lay minister Christine Bryant. Photo: Mary Anne Gill
Guiding councillors
Waipā District Council members have been told they can guide community boards on items they have an interest in, Lou Brown told Te Awamutu-Kihikihi Community Board last week, but they are not allowed to take part in the discussions. Brown’s comments come after chair Ange Holt expressed frustration about the rules rendering councillors ineffective at community board meetings.
Hall of famer
International cricket umpire and Te Awamutu local, John Hastie, was inducted into the town’s prestigious Walk of Fame last week at a celebration reflecting his impressive accomplishments. The ceremony unveiling Hastie’s personalised pou (post) in Selwyn Park was attended by his proud family, friends and several former cricketing greats.
Recycled benches
The decision to replace seven of the War Memorial Park’s benches with modern equivalents had already been made before Te Awamutu and District War Memorial Park Maintenance committee member Marc Dawson spoke to the Te Awamutu-Kihikihi Community Board last week. The council says it could donate the old benches to a community organisation such as Te Awamutu Menzshed.
Charges reviewed
Waipā District Council is reviewing its fees and charges to ensure that everyone who uses its services contributes fairly. While most of the adjustments reflect inflation, there are a few exceptions where the actual costs weren’t being fully recovered.
Rural women
Waikato Provincial Rural Women NZ wants historic photographs of Waikato farms to use in a slide show celebrating a century of the organisation in September. The Women’s Farmers Union started in 1925, became Women’s Division Federated Farmers in 1945, and assumed its current name after 1999.
Alpha Hotel funding stalls
By Jon Rawlinson
The trust behind Kihikihi’s Alpha Hotel believes it is being thwarted to more funding for extensive restoration on the historic building because of its ownership structure.
If the hotel had Waipā District Council’s clout, Alpha Restoration Trust chair Bill Harris believes funding to complete the work and develop the former hotel into a community hub would quickly follow.
“Ideally, it’s a property that the council should own,” Harris told The News.
“At the moment it’s still under private ownership, so we can’t do big renovations because we can’t get big funders. But there is hope for it, hope for a community hub.”
Work on the hotel started two years ago after former
Auckland city councillor and National MP, Arthur Anae, gifted it on the proviso that it was used for the community.
The 30-year lease is set at a peppercorn rate, renewable every 10 years.
Harris believes if the council bought the hotel from the trust, doors would open on new sources of funding and further revenue could be raised by developing land behind the hotel.
“If the council owned the property and the community trust had the building, then we could apply for Lotto funding, for example. As long as it’s under private ownership, we can’t do anything like that.
“It has quite a bit of land at the back so there could easily be flats built there. The council could, effectively, run a community hub out of the hotel and sell off the
property development at the back.”
The trust is working on a concept plan.
“Council had agreed in its last long-term plan to conduct a feasibility study on a community hub for Kihikihi. As we understand it, the study has been completed so we’ve been chasing them for it.”
The hotel opened in 1867 and is registered by the Historic Places Trust as a Category Two building. Time was called for the last time in the early 2000s.
Since then, the Alpha has been a second-hand furniture shop and even played host to ladies of the evening.
Progress towards restoring the hotel to its former glory, rather than infamy, has been made but there is more to be done.
“We’ve been tidying up
downstairs to make it a little bit more presentable,” Harris said.
“People may have seen some of the work that the RSA boys have been doing on the outside. They’ve been fixing the broken windows downstairs and floorboards. Hopefully, before too much longer because of the weather, they’ll paint the bottom storey.”
One major element has recently needed a little historic knowledge from some ‘bright sparks.’
“We’re checking wiring at the moment and old wiring in an old building can cause major problems. All of the fire alarms were taken off when the building wasn’t being used – we’ve reconnected the power to put in new fuses. We’re now checking the smoke detectors and alarms to make sure everything is safe.”
As the project has been reliant on funding, there’s no set timeline for completion just yet. However, time is needed to do the old girl justice.
“It’s been a lot of work,” Harris added.
“The aim would be to open as soon as we can, but it’ll take however long it has to take to do a good job.”
Rosetown Funerals
Celebrant David Natske
Bill Harris
Kihikihi’s iconic Alpha Hotel, a popular stop on SH3.
Photo: Mary Anne Gill
Tattoos and a tipple
By Viv Posselt
A recent ‘ink and drink’ event at Te Awamutu’s newest retirement community turned out to be a smash hit.
The bold group of Arvida Whai Mauri Ora village octogenarians decided to add ‘tattoo application’ to their regular happy hour gathering. The idea was to
spice things up a bit, bring in a little fun and redefine any lingering perceptions people might have about ageing. It was clearly a success.
The ‘inking and drinking’ get-together saw them rolling up their sleeves to get temporary tattoos applied.
Pam McCollum was certain she wouldn’t go for a real tattoo but ended up fancying the skull and knife
tatt she had done on her arm.
“I said to my daughter that if I ever got a tattoo, you’ll know I’ve lost the plot! I don’t think I could sit still long enough to have one done, but I do like this one, probably because I know it’s only temporary,” she said.
Her neighbour Lorraine Olsen, who is already known in Te Awamutu as a
The latest addition to the Industry Training Works (ITW) network, the purpose-built centre runs a comprehensive range of courses, the company’s sales and marketing manager, Jenna Daniels, explains.
“Our founders, Alan Mycroft and Bob Durham, were both in the NZ Fire Service for more than 20 years. During that time, they witnessed so many preventable workplace accidents and injuries that they knew they had to do something about it. So, in 2008, they founded ITW.”
From basic health and safety through to working at heights, working with hazardous substances, first aid and occupational health checks, ITW’s courses cover various specialist industries and tasks.
“We train teams from solo tradies through to large, heavy industrial businesses. Our courses are developed for high-risk industries, including factories, mills and manufacturing plants as well as the construction, rural and forestry sectors. ITW’s training centres are designed to replicate a wide range of industry environments and common workplace scenarios. Each space is adaptable, ensuring training can be tailored to meet
steampunk afficionado, took a less radical approach to the idea.
“I’ve been doing steampunk as a hobby for about 12 years. It covers a lot of genres … industrial revolution, futuristic, Victorian. I love that you can be someone else in a costume and a tattoo can really complete the look.”
Lorraine and her husband Brian moved to the village about six months ago, and enjoy getting stuck into whatever social activities are on offer.
Another resident Jenny Bullivant already has a small real tattoo on her inner arm and ended up with a much larger temporary one.
“Tattoos are a statement, but I don’t think I’d every go for a tattoo this big,” she said. “I’ll stick to the temporary ones for now.”
Village manager Jenny Fraser said there have been plenty of residentled activities since people started moving into the retirement community over a year ago.
“I’ve noticed such a strong connection and engagement between residents. The tattooing was a lot of fun … even trying to apply them was a good laugh. Everyone is still talking about it.”
Kennedy fluoride move greeted
By Roy Pilott
Anti-fluoride campaigners are claiming another victory as the United States administration takes an increasingly negative view of the use of the chemical.
The latest move has seen US Health Secretary Robert Kennedy announcing plans to tell the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention to stop recommending fluoridation.
Kennedy’s views on vaccines and the Covid vaccine in particular have seen him clash with health professionals, but he was given an influential health role in the Trump administration.
The timing is significant for New Zealand because a host of councils, including Waipā in Cambridge, have been instructed by the health ministry to add fluoride to water supplies.
Some have objected, Waipā has not – and that riles Te Awamutu-Kihikihi Community Board deputy chair Kane Titchener, a leading anti-fluoride campaigner with Fluoride Free NZ.
His efforts to encourage the council to push bank on the fluoridation order – as several councils are doing - have to date been ignored.
In February he stood with US lawyer Michael Connett who at a meeting in Cambridge discussed neurotoxicity, skeletal and dental fluorosis. Anti-fluoride groups regard his success in arguing in a legal battle that there was credible evidence that fluoridation posed a health risk was a breakthrough moment.
“You just start to wonder what it is going to take for the Waipā District Council to protect the unborn children and infants in Cambridge,” Titchener told The News last week.
“I mean, they can’t even write a letter to the Director General of Health sharing their concerns. In my view they need to support Rotorua District Council’s call for an inquiry at this point. The Waipā District Council needs to act urgently, fluoridation is a matter of months away now.”
the specific needs of individual clients.
“Our courses are never ‘one size fits all’,” says Jenna. “Everything we do focuses on delivering the right mix of knowledge, hands-on training, and equipment for each unique workplace.”
The centres feature practical training bays that simulate working at heights, working in confined spaces, and working with machinery – among other high-risk tasks. However, the setups are flexible, allowing ITW to customise training to suit different industries, sites, and teams.
Many courses are also available online, and ITW’s team of subject matter experts can deliver training on site when required.
“It’s not always possible to replicate a client’s exact workplace,” Jenna explains. “That’s why we’re ready to go to them. With the opening of our new Harrison Drive centre in Te Awamutu, we’ve expanded our reach and can now deliver training across the King Country, Waipa, Waikato and the Bay of Plenty.”
Classified as a Category 1 Private Training Establishment, ITW meets
requirements. Workplace training is regularly reviewed so the company can continue to meet and exceed industry standards. ITW’s three training centres – Tokoroa, Kawerau and Te Awamutu – provide the ideal base for its experienced team. “No matter the scale or nature of the training you require, the first step is to give us a call. We will discuss your needs and develop a plan to suit,” Jenna adds. “By the time our job is done, we know your workers will thank you for being so committed to their safety.”
Industry Training Works is proud to open the doors to our new Te Awamutu premises — a fresh space to continue empowering health and safety in the community.
Home sweet home — even the scissor lift’s feeling comfy in our new Te Awamutu spot!
Displaying their temporary tattoos are Pam Thomson, Anne Blythe and Jenny Bullivant.
Kane Titchener
Walsh wants a reset
By Jesse Wood
Shane Walsh believes he has what it takes to represent Te Awamutu ratepayers fairly on the Waipā District Council.
The Te Awamutu Business Chamber chief executive, Waipā Community Facilities Trust chair and Destination Te Awamutu chair, Walsh said a position as councillor would ensure the town’s best interests were heard.
“As a Te Awamutu ratepayer, I’m reflecting on the concerns that Te
Awamutu ratepayers have. One concern is the increasing rates and the level of debt, but everyone’s got that concern,” Walsh said.
“The other concern is the council not listening. I think that’s demonstrated by the fact that the Te Awamutu Kihikihi Community Board, which is supposed to advocate on behalf of Te Awamutu people in terms of feeding back concerns and any good ideas, have been ignored. Therefore, nothing is happening. Te Awamutu deserves better than that.”
Walsh is also concerned about wasteful spending and the council “not getting things done”.
Born and brought up in Te Awamutu - he returned in 2020 after 40 years away – Walsh has a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Waikato University and has held senior management roles and executive roles in both the dairy and fishing industry. These have ensured a financial savviness.
“They’ve given me a good understanding about
how things work in large complex organisations. This experience will be useful if elected as a councillor,” Walsh said.
“An example of wasteful spending is the Te Ara Wai Museum. It’s a fantastic idea, with a lot of community support for it. A lot of money has been spent, buildings have been bought, but no progress.
“That’s really frustrating because it would be a great asset for Te Awamutu.”
Walsh is concerned about a disconnect between
community and the council.
“Examples of this is the council stopped funding the i-Site and cut event funding.
Te Awamutu may lose their visitors centre and has missed out on events such as Black Friday Blowout and the Art Trail, events that help to make Te Awamutu a more liveable town.”
He believes the council needs to re-establish trust and connection with the community. They need a reset.
If Walsh were to be elected, he would step down
from all other positions
“I would walk away from all those positions. I’d focus 100% on being a councillor.”
Board neutral on water option
By Chris Gardner
The consultation process surrounding the formation of a seven-council controlled water authority has been described as a bitter pill to swallow.
Te Awamutu-Kihikihi
Community board member Sally Whitaker said she felt like Waipā District Council’s consultation was only happening with the community because legislation required it.
“I find that a bitter pill to swallow,” she said at last week’s board meeting.
“It would have been nice to see the community brought along with
the whole process. I don’t feel that the public feels very involved or that they have had information.
“I just think it’s a sad indictment on things when we are wanting localism, community involvement and win-win, it looks like we’re box ticking.”
“I hear you on this one,” replied Waipā Service Delivery group manager Dawn Inglis, who recently resigned from the council executive.
“We’ve tried pretty hard in raising awareness ahead of this,” she said.
The government’s Local Water Done Well legislation required councils to consult with their
communities on an enhanced, in-house, status quo option versus their own preferred option.
Board chair Ange Holt described the council’s consultation document as “a leg up” as council staff had whittled down the information for community digestion.
Board deputy chair Kane Titchener was worried Waipā ratepayers could end up subsidising the six other councils in Waikato Water Done Well and asked why Waipā had not decided to go it alone.
“We’re losing control here.”
He proposed dumping Waikato Water Done Well in favour of a
Please note that our business will be closed for Anzac Day 25 April and Saturday 26 April.
shared services agreement.
“I guess I am just challenging that efficiency, and I think we can get it another way.”
Inglis said the council had already tried Titchener’s approach.
“It didn’t bring cost efficiencies but provided some great training opportunities.”
Titchener wanted to know whether there was room in the legislation to follow international best practice around fluoridation if it were to change.
Inglis said it remained the responsibility of the Director General of Health.
Titchener was also worried that the legislation could enable
privatisation.
“Absolutely not,” Inglis replied. Holt described her deputy’s line of questioning as a “good work out”.
Asked whether the board wished to submit on the council’s preferred option of joining Waikato Water Done Well member John Wood said: “I think council had done a bloody marvellous job to get us where we are, and we agree with what they are doing.”
But Whitaker and Titchener did not agree with his stance.
The board will make a submission neither agreeing nor disagreeing with council’s preferred option.
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ON SHAKY GROUND
The muddy kind of volcano
By Janine Krippner
As we are well aware, volcanoes erupt molten rock and volcanic gases released as magma rises from deep within the Earth. But what about mud volcanoes?
Like their magmatic cousins, mud volcanoes can also be dangerous and devastating. The Lusi mud volcano in East Java began erupting in 2006, displacing 40,000 people and destroying 15 villages, with damages estimated around $US3 billion. This disaster, which deposited mud up to 40 m thick in some areas, remains controversial, with drilling activities likely triggering the ongoing eruption.
So, how does this happen?
Below the Earth’s surface, pressures build pretty quickly the deeper we go. Fluids and gases can accumulate, become trapped, and pressurise. If a fault or fracture provides a pathway to the surface, these materials can escape. When sediments are involved, the result is mud.
The mud isn’t just typical post-rain mud. It can contain hydrocarbons, heavy metals, and even microbes brought up from depth.
While magmatic volcanoes don’t produce fire or smoke, mud volcanoes can. The muddy mixture can contain flammable gases that can ignite from sparks caused by rocks colliding.
This incredible phenomenon isn’t limited to land. In 2021, an inferno formed above a mud volcano in the Caspian Sea, located near a natural gas field. Mud volcanoes in Azerbaijan are known for their violent nature, with several large eruptions each year, many involving fire.
However, mud volcanoes aren’t always so dramatic. They can be quite small, starting at the centimetre scale and reaching up to kilometres in size.
You might be surprised to learn that New Zealand hosts mud volcanoes. In December 2018, one erupted on a farm in Tairāwhiti/
Gisborne, ejecting mud, gas, and rocks. A volume of around 16,900 m³ of mud flowed away from the vent and out to about 160 metres.
Volcanoes of the mud variety often occur near hydrocarbon reservoirs, magmatic volcanoes, or tectonically active areas – settings where fluids are present, and conditions allow them to pressurise. Then they just need a path to the surface. Earthquakes can trigger their formation, which was the case for the 2018 Gisborne event.
Speaking of depth, the mud mixture can originate from hundreds of metres to several kilometres below the surface, not from the much greater depths where rock can melt.
Unlike magmatic volcanoes, mud volcanoes don’t form mountains. Magmatic volcanoes build mountains or cones by depositing layers upon layers of rock around one or more vents. Mud, being more susceptible to erosion, doesn’t accumulate to form large features. The largest mud volcano structure is several hundred metres in height over in Azerbaijan.
While I have a rather clear personal preference for the magmatic kind, mud volcanoes are fascinating geological processes that offer insights into the Earth’s subsurface dynamics.
Given that we have them here in New Zealand – near Gisborne and also in Northland – they’re another remarkable aspect of our beautiful and dynamic country to appreciate.
For those interested in learning more about these phenomena, I recommend exploring the work of scientist Mark Tingay, who has shared informative videos and content online explaining their mechanics and global occurrences.
Oil kills wildlife Letters to the Editor
Wildlife is dying at Huipūtea Reserve lake in Ōtorohanga.
Dog walkers said ducks, geese and eels have been found dead after an oil-like substance entered the waterway via a drainage pipe at the north end of the lake.
But Ōtorohanga District Council has so far been unable to find contamination at a level that requires further investigation.
Eoin Lenehan, said the lake has been hit by an almost constant flow of oil since he began walking his dog there in 2023.
“Initially the council had staff using sponge-type barriers to restrict the flow,” he said.
Lenhan is blaming the deaths of several ducks, a goose, and an eel on the slick.
“This has to stop,” he said.
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Weal handed the reins
By Jon Rawlinson
Equestrian Sport’s new high performance dressage manager has her eyes firmly set on Aachen in Germany 16 months from now.
Waipā-based Christine Weal says it might be a long shot but she hopes to have a team of riders at the world champs next year.
“This is how we qualify a team for the Olympics. We need at least one or two riders gaining experience at that level.
“Having a team, or at least an athlete, at the LA Olympics (2028) and a competitive team at the Brisbane Olympics (2032) is the goal.
“To achieve this, we need to have riders working together and pushing each other while we produce young riders to compete internationally.”
Her appointment was announced earlier this month, two months after the death of grand prix rider and coach Penny Castle-Pearce.
“It is very sad that Penny can’t be here to watch the programme grow. Along with Jock Paget, she did a great job setting up the high performance programme in its first year last season,” Weal said.
Weal has represented New Zealand several times over many years and will draw on her extensive experience training and mentoring advanced riders. She also breeds and trains horses at the Te Rahu Rd family farm she runs with partner Zoie Gray on the northeastern outskirts of Te Awamutu.
Quite a few people asked Weal, who attended Te Awamutu College, to apply for the position because of her success in coaching high performance and young riders.
Weal can also draw on her strong grass roots knowledge. Parents Leo and Pam trained racehorses, and her mother rode show horses.
The Horse of the Year’s Dressage Young Rider of the Year silverware is now known as the Pam
Weal Memorial Trophy.
Weal’s sister Judith Otto, now retired and living in the Bay of Plenty, also represented New Zealand in eventing.
Horses have been an important part of the family’s lives.
“It is a great feeling when a horse trusts you and you’re working as a team to create a spectacular performance. It’s incredible to see how you can change horses by using different exercises as they develop and get stronger,” said Weal.
“That’s always a thrill and especially when you have taken a horse that is a bit tricky and been able to get confident performances from them.”
She will continue working in her business – Gray works with the young horses - while driving Equestrian Sports NZ’s high performance programme which aims to improve the performances of Kiwi riders at international events.
“It’s important that we support and develop our current Grand Prix riders but also to build a strong succession plan,” she said.
“We need to help younger riders learn how to produce their own horses from a young age, as buying horses at this level is often out of reach financially. Having more horses and riders competing at this level brings excitement to the sport and it can inspire greater involvement across the board.”
“Since dressage is still relatively new to the high performance programme, and we’re relying on a small group of riders to carry much of the load, it’s crucial that we develop more talent coming through the ranks. The more our top riders learn, the more knowledge they can pass on to the next generation, which will ultimately benefit the sport as a whole.”
Limited funding and resources require creative thinking, she said.
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Christine Weal with Schindler’s Liszt. Photo: Christine Cornege
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Close calls on mat
By Paul Walker
It has been an extraordinary month for close competitions started with the King Country championship fours.
Considering the relative strengths of the teams on paper, it was a surprise that no team managed to win four games and that only one team managed to win three games.
Brendon Hand, Betty Herbert, Margaret Taylor, and Russell Vincent (Te Awamutu Indoor Bowls Club) won and for all players, it was their first centre title.
Bruce Grace, Arthur Pitcher, Susan Grace and Diane Udy were second.
Then last week Te Awamutu Indoor Bowls Club held the first of its triples tournaments with 16 teams entered and none of them winning four games.
Six teams had three wins, and the placings were decided on a countback of ends, which saw John Whitehead, Betty Herbert, and Russell Vincent take first place with 19 ends.
Three of the other teams all had 18 ends. To find the second and third placings, a tally of points scored was required. Lyn Martin, Carol Lovell, and Richard Beaumont, with 34, were second, and Jim Hill, Marlene Walker, and Margaret Taylor, with 28, were third.
College foot it in clash
By Jon Rawlinson
It wasn’t a case of first time lucky at the Clash of the Colleges in Auckland earlier this month, but Te Awamutu College students did put their best feet forward.
Kasey Smith and Jorjaina Mathieson both secured wins in the gumboot throw – in the junior female and senior female categories, respectively.
Overall, agriculture and horticulture teacher, Tracey Gawn, says she was very proud of the team’s efforts in tackling a wide range of primary industry challenges.
“I asked the kids on the
way back if they wanted to go again and they resoundingly said ‘yes!’ They learnt a lot that will help them with their upcoming assessments, and they had good fun. It was especially nice to see some of them who had quite low confidence step up.”
The event, held at Donald’s Farm in Whitford, the Auckland edition of the competition included schools from Auckland and the Waikato. The contest is designed to help young agriculture and horticulture students grow their knowledge.
A Morrinsville College team won the overall senior
award and one of Auckland’s Mt Albert Grammar teams topped the junior standings.
Te Awamutu teams performed well in the fencing section.
“One of our students, Cody Mueller, did so well in the fencing that one of the guys who works on Donald’s Farm came over and praised him personally. He thought his skills were phenomenal. So yes, they did quite well.”
Get Gardening
Autumn is the ideal time of year to plant new trees, hedging, shrubs or borders in your garden. Planting now while the soil is still warm means the roots will have enough time to get established before the colder temperatures arrive, which will slow down the growth. It’s also a great time to think about your edible garden, look to add citrus, feijoa's and blueberries which can all be planted now. Remove spent summer flowering annuals and plant your favourite winter flowers like Antirrhinum, Cyclamen, Polyanthus, Primula, Poppy’s, Pansy and Viola or Sweet pea. In the vegetable garden plant seedlings of beetroot, broccoli, cabbage, lettuces, cauliflower and spinach.
amber.garden.centre
The team which won the Te Awamutu triples tournament, from left Russell Vincent, Betty Herbert, and John Whitehead, who is King Country centre president.
On the line: Te Awamutu College’s Rhianna and Kendra Grayling compete in fencing. Photo: Supplied
Creativity on show
By Viv Posselt
Te Awamutu Creative Fibre group members will show off their mastery in town next week.
An array of products, many of them made from scratch using centuries-old skills, will be available for purchase, including a host of woven, knitted and crocheted items. There will also be a selection of ‘comfort dolls’ on show, dolls made principally for use by service organisations such as the police and Hato Hone St John to help children caught up in stressful situations.
All monies raised from the event will go back into the group for the purchase of fibre and wool to keep members producing well into the future.
Group secretary and co-ordinator respectively, Kathy Mitchell and Clare Ravenscroft, said the exhibition at Enrich Plus’ Gallery on Teasdale was an annual event intended to showcase the wide range of work done by members, bring in funds, and pique the interest of future members.
People join the group from around the region – one of them
regularly attends from Raglan.
The idea behind the group is to bring people together through a shared interest in spinning, weaving, knitting, dyeing, felting and other fibre crafts – many of them dating back centuries.
Members can be rank-raw beginners or seasoned crafters but are bonded by a shared admiration for finely crafted work and the genial companionship enjoyed at regular gatherings. Te Awamutu Creative Fibre has both daytime and evening sessions at the Baptist Church and is always looking for more members.
Among those at last week’s meeting was a rare gentleman in the mix – Phil Quinn. A weaver and knitter, he has for several years enjoyed the company of his fellow crafters, while all the time declaring the skills to be ‘very restful, very therapeutic’.
Another regular member who was at last week’s session is Rie de Haan, a long-time crafter whose recent 100th birthday was featured in The News.
• More photos teawamutunews.nz
Minimum investment of $100,000. Only available to Eligible or Wholesale Investors under the
Te Awamutu AUTO DIRECTORY
Taking care of safety
Servicing your tyres is a critical part of vehicle maintenance; it directly impacts safety, performance, and cost-e ciency.
Tyres are your vehicle’s only contact with the road, making their condition crucial for safe driving.
Regularly checking tyre pressure, tread depth, and alignment helps maintain optimal grip and handling, especially in wet or slippery conditions. Properly serviced tyres reduce the risk of blowouts or accidents caused by poor traction. Often people don’t actually know the correct inflation for their tyres – and this makes a very real di erence. Underinflated or misaligned tyres increase rolling resistance, making your engine work harder and burn more fuel. Keeping tyres at the recommended pressure improves fuel e ciency, saving you money at the pump. Proper tyre maintenance will see your
vehicle handling well, providing smoother rides, better cornering, and more reliable braking. Balanced tyres prevent uneven wear, which can cause vibrations and a ect steering control.
Regular servicing, including rotating tyres and checking for damage, extends their lifespan, reducing the need for premature replacement, saving you money in the long run.
In New Zealand, tyres must meet legal requirements for tread depth (at least 1.5 mm). Regular servicing ensures your tyres comply with these standards, avoiding fines and keeping your vehicle roadworthy.
By maintaining your tyres, you not only enhance safety but also improve vehicle performance and cost-e ectiveness.
Pat Quinn, the only bloke in the group, is a skilled weaver and knitter who enjoys the relaxation and camaraderie linked to being a member.
Photo: Viv Posselt
Community Connect
Cricket umpiring legend honoured in Te Awamutu’s Walk of Fame
The ceremony unveiling Mr Hastie’s personalised pou [post] in Selwyn Park was attended by his proud family, friends and several former cricketing greats.
Mayor Susan O’Regan spoke at the event, describing Mr Hastie as a humble achiever, an extraordinary umpire, and an outstanding member of the Waipā community. “John didn’t stumble into his career – it was built on passion, commitment, and a deep love for the game.
“His contribution to cricket spans from the grassroots of our local competitions to the pinnacle of the international game.”
Mr Hastie’s umpiring career was launched in the 1960s and spanned nearly two decades, during which he officiated 48 first-class matches and 12 List A games, including officiating in tests against all of the major cricketing nations.
Mr Hastie, now aged 92, reminisced on his first test match in Christchurch in 1974, when New Zealand scored its historic first win over Australia. “It was quite a ride getting there,” he laughed, remembering the
hair-raising flights each way.
“After that first game, it wasn’t until a few years later that things took off. I had some amazing years umpiring four one-day internationals and multiple test matches in New Zealand, when we faced off against England, Pakistan, the West Indies and India,” he said.
Mr Hastie was born and raised in Te Awamutu, with his love for cricket starting right in the heart of Waipā in the late 1950s, playing in local weekend competitions at Pirongia.
He was nominated for the Walk of Fame by his son, Richard, and now joins 34 other Te Awamutu local heroes and role models who have achieved world recognition in their fields. Previous inductees include musicians Neil and Tim Finn, Ngāti Maniapoto chief Rewi Maniapoto, six-time Olympic equestrian Andrew Nicholson and golfer Philip Tataurangi.
This was the first induction since 2022. The Walk of Fame was officially opened by the late Kingī Tuheitia on November 15, 2009.
Cambridge Connections reset lead announced
A strong strategic leader with extensive experience in leading national infrastructure planning has been appointed to direct the reset of the Cambridge Connections project.
Katie Mayes (right), who is currently the NZ Transport Agency’s National Manager System Planning and Investment, will join Waipā District Council as Executive Director on Monday, May 5.
Cambridge resident Mayes said she is excited to be able to work in her own community. A graduate of the London School of Economics, Mayes’ career has seen her hold leadership roles in both local and central government, as well as the private sector. She has a Master of Philosophy in resource and environment planning, a Master of Science in public policy and administration, a Bachelor of Laws and a post-graduate certificate in management. She is also a chartered member of the Institute of Directors.
Cambridge Connections aims to create an integrated and sustainable transport network to support the fastgrowing town over the next 30 years.
Chief Executive Steph O’Sullivan said Mayes was an impressive leader with a track record for highperformance who would put the Waipā community at the very heart of the project.
“Katie’s talent for bringing positive energy, connecting people and ideas, and seeing the big picture while driving strategy into action makes her an ideal leader for this complex and critical work.
“Given its importance, I have taken the time to find the right person to lead this project to help us form the broader picture for connecting Cambridge as a part of the wider district and inter-regional connections.”
In Mayes' current role she is responsible for strategically planning the national land transport system, including how to fund and prioritise investments, and maintaining central-local government planning and investment partnerships.
“It is a privilege to be able to bring those skills into my own community and help shape the future of the place I call home,” she said.
Andrew Linton had just been promoted to corporal and hoped to go one better when he wrote to his parents, as Meghan Hawkes recalls in A Snip in Time from 110 years ago.
Linton wartime loss recalled
“It is no easy work tramping about the Sahara Desert with a full pack on,” wrote Andrew Linton, 19, from Egypt to his parents at Mangapiko on Boxing Day, 1914.
“I have no idea how long we are to stay here. It may be till the end of the war, or we may go any time.”
Andrew was one of several children born to
Francis and Emma Linton of Feilding. Francis, a Scotsman, was a farmer and stock dealer and the family lived in the district till around 1911 when they moved to Oeo, South Taranaki.
Two years later they moved to Mangapiko.
When World War One broke out there were two Linton boys of military age, Robert - ‘Bert’- 24, and Andrew - ‘Willie’.
They enlisted on 14 August, 1914.
Their sister Jessie, 26, left home around the same time to take up nursing at Thames Hospital. The brothers left New Zealand together with the Main Body in October 1914.
Andrew wrote regularly to his parents.
“Five of us Te Awamutu boys went out to the pyramids, and had a good look round.
"The workmanship in connection with the Sphinx and all the ancient
temples and tombs is simply marvellous… On our way back we had a look through the Zoological Gardens . . . there is practically every kind of bird and beast imaginable there.”
By January 1915 the routines of military life had become established.
“We are doing some very solid work now, tramping about the desert and digging trenches… Our butter ran out about three weeks ago…we have to cook all our own food.
"Every man has a mess tin, a sort of combined billy and frying pan. It is not the warmest place in the world for sleeping out at night, even with a couple of blankets.”
On 25 April, 16,000 Australians and New Zealanders, together with British, French and Indian troops, landed on the Gallipoli peninsula. Turkish resistance was fierce. Andrew told his
parents it was “a day I am not likely to forget.”
June 1915 found Andrew in hospital with a wounded hand “which no doubt makes my writing hard to read. I was seven weeks in Turkey before I got hit. The fighting has been pretty fierce at times, but my good fortune has always stuck to me.
"The New Zealand nurses are in the hospital here now, and they are finding plenty to do.
"I have been promoted to corporal already, and I hope to do better than that before I am finished.”
By July Andrew observed it was “terribly hot in Egypt now, and everyone has to wear a helmet and drill suit. The sand is hot enough to cook bread.”
In late 1915 he wrote “The flies are something awful - in fact, the campaign now is more against the flies than against the Turks.
"I went down to the sea last night for a swim — the first wash I have had for over a month. I am having biscuits and jam for dinner today; it’s not too bad, but I would rather have the same as you are having.
"However, there is a good time coming, but it is still a good way off.”
The good time, though, did not come.
Robert was killed in action in 1916 at the Somme, France, aged 26.
Andrew was wounded at the Somme and invalided to England.
In April 1917 he rejoined his unit in France and was continuously in the trenches.
On 14 August, 1918 Andrew, now a sergeant, was killed in action, aged 23.
It was exactly four years to the day after he had enlisted for war.
Jessie fell victim to the deadly influenza epidemic which swept
through New Zealand shortly afterwards having administered to the sick at Thames Hospital in the days leading up to it.
• Read a longer version teawamutunews.nz
Andrew Linton
Jessie Linton
Care and generosity on show
This morning, I was one of a group waiting outside St Patrick’s Catholic church ready to begin our annual Walk of Witness, an annual event when the congregations of St Patrick’s and St John’s, walk the main street of Te Awamutu between our two churches.
In a very small way, this walk, following a cross
carried by volunteers, recognises Jesus’ journey, as he was made to carry the cross to which he would be nailed.
Today as we gathered to walk, a car pulled up and a smiling chap popped out.
“I’m from Pak n Save,” he said. “We’ve got an abundance of Hot Cross Buns left over. I’m visiting local
churches wondering if you can use them.”
Both churches accepted gratefully, knowing people we can give such treats to. What thoughtfulness and generosity that was-exactly the type of attitude the Jesus whose agonising death we remembered on Good Friday demonstrated in his life.
Earlier that morning, as I was heading to St Patrick’s, I noticed a young man in the street looking agitated. I was heading to an appointment, so I continued but remained concerned for him. I was upset to see someone filming the young man in his distress, and others watching, pointing and laughing. I was struck by the similarity between the cries of the crowd for Jesus to be crucified, and today’s crowd finding entertainment in this man’s distress.
When our group followed the cross through Te Awamutu, he had gone. I hoped he’d found shelter. I was happy to learn later that there were also caring members of the public who, realising that he was too distressed to be safe, called the police.
In all my dealings with police in Te Awamutu, I have found them responsive and caring. They know and feel
By Julie Guest
concern for the same people many of us in Te Awamutu do, those without homes and with little personal resource to manage life. In this case, I’m told the police arrived promptly and took him to a place of care.
This echoes the Jesus’ response that the Pak n Save man also showed. Kindness and care. Sharing what we have. Going out of our way to look after others.
We often hear, even in Te Awamutu about acts of destruction, theft and hurt. I have shared that we at St John’s have experienced vandalism and theft and felt upset and betrayed.
Christine Bryant has written of St John’s gratitude to the people of Te Awamutu for helping to fund the restoration of the stained glass windows in St Paul’s Rangiaowhia, and also to our insurance company who have covered a roof replacement following copper theft. Good things do happen.
But as Jesus encouraged us all to see, they only happen if we do as He commanded. That we love God above all and treat others as we ourselves would wish to be treated. This week as we remember both the death and resurrection of Jesus, and the
sacrifice of those who died in war to ensure we could thrive in peace, let us honour the sacrifice of both, by committing to live our lives facing into God’s love and for the benefit of others.
^Price
Rev Julie Guest and Paul Bryant light the Paschal Candle in front of the congregation outside St Paul’s Rangiaowhia Church at the Easter Sunday Service of the Light. Photo: Mary Anne Gill.
At Te Awamutu Funeral Services our dedicated team is passionate about providing valuable guidance and a personalised service at a time when you need it most. - Offering Generations
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King St East, Te Kūiti
Secretary Manager
The Waitomo Club is seeking a hands-on Secretary Manager to lead our vibrant community hub.
We’re looking for someone with business or management experience (hospitality a bonus!) and skills in financial, administrative, and operational processes.
Key tasks include managing club operations, overseeing the restaurant, and growing membership.
A Bar Managers Certificate and gaming machine approval (or the ability to obtain them within three months) are essential.
If you’re ready to make a difference, send your CV and cover letter to waitomoclub@xtra.co.nz
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CAB BUDGETING CLINIC!
Waipa District Council (“WDC”) proposes to grant the following leases in respect of land owned and administered by WDC as Recreation Reserves under section 54(1)(b) of the Reserves Act
1977:
Stadium – Armstrong Avenue, Te Awamutu
Lessee: Te Awamutu Association Football Club Incorporated and Te Awamutu Athletic Club Incorporated
Leased Land: Approximately 4.0849 hectares being the recreation reserve located at Armstrong Avenue, Te Awamutu known as The Stadium which is registered under Record of Title 461266 and legally described as Lot 7-8, Part Lot 9, 10 & 22 DPS 1871, Lot 2 DPS 5222, Lot 24 DPS 6237, Lot 1 DPS 8027 and Lot 44 DPS 8270
Term: 5 years
Rent: Initial annual rent of $924 plus GST
Permitted Use: Sporting activities
Sherwin Park – Hazelmere Cresent, Te Awamutu
Lessee: Te Awamutu Association Football Club Incorporated
Leased Land: Approximately 3.3235 hectares being the recreation reserve located at Hazelmere Crescent, Te Awamutu known as Sherwin Park which is registered under Record of Title 461267 and legally described as Lot 182 DPS 4569, Lot 1 DPS 11908 and Lot 29 DPS 21018
Term: 5 years
Rent: Initial annual rent of $362 plus GST
Permitted Use: Sporting activities
For more information, please contact Waipa District Council on 0800 924 723 or email info@waipadc.govt.nz
Anyone wishing to make a submission or objection may do so in writing by post or email, to be received no later than 5pm, Friday 30 May 2025. please state in your submission if you wish to be heard in person.
Address all correspondence to:
By Post:
Waipa District Council
Private Bag 2402
Te Awamutu 3840
By email:
Email: info@waipadc.govt.nz
Privacy Statement: Any personal information you provide as part of your submission or objection will be used for the purpose of the engagement process, including informing you of the outcome of the consultation. All objections/submissions (including names and contact details) may be provided in full to elected members and Council officers for this purpose. Objections/submissions (including names but not contact details) may be made available to the public at our office and on our website. All information collected will be held by Waipa District Council, 101 Bank Street, Te Awamutu with submitters having the right to access, and request correction to, their personal information. You can read our full privacy statement at waipadc.govt.nz/privacy-statement
BRIDGE LESSONS
Start Thursday 1 May 6.45pm Daytime and Night Lessons available Contact Alison 027 284 7378 Register at tabridgenz@gmail.com
PIRONGIA MARKET
Pirongia Community Centre, Crozier St Sunday, April 27, 9am - 1pm
Last Sunday of every month Email jim1@xtra.co.nz or ph Jim 027 366 5842
ROWLANDS, Richard – Our dear Richard passed away unexpectedly from a medical event at home Thursday 17th April 2025. Richard was a dearly loved son of Peter and Jana, and brother of Rachel and Abby, as well as a loving uncle to Peter and Elliana.
A private family farewell will be held. Our dear Richie will forever hold loving memories in our hearts and be deeply missed.
We love you Rich, rest well with your Lord and Saviour. Messages to the Rowlands Family can be sent c/- 262 Ohaupo Road, Te Awamutu 3800 or in Richard's online tribute book at www. rosetown.co.nz
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Limitation of Liability: Good
FRASER, Peter Alfred Leslie. Late of Honikiwi – Passed away peacefully on 18 April 2025, aged 98 years. Dearly loved husband of the late Margaret Fraser. Treasured father, grandfather, greatgrandfather, and a friend to many. A proud Honikiwi local, Peter will be fondly remembered for a life rich in adventure and the mark he made to beautify this land with trees. A farewell will be held at Alexandra House Chapel, 570 Alexandra St, Te Awamutu on Wednesday, 30th April at 11am followed by a private cremation. Farewell will be livestreamed, email office@ teawamutufunerals.co.nz for the link.
“Forever in our hearts, and deeply missed.” All communications to the Fraser family, P O Box 137, Te Awamutu 3840. Te Awamutu Funeral Services, FDANZ
McCRACKEN, David Lloyd (Crackers) – Left the earth in style – no fuss, just the way he liked it – at home on Saturday, 19th April 2025, aged 64. Beloved husband to Tracy and proud dad to mini-Crackers – Jimmy. A service to send him off will be held at Mitre 10 Trade Centre, 55 Allwill Drive, Hautapu, Cambridge on Saturday, 26th April 2025 at 11:00 am, followed by a private cremation. Messages for the McCracken family can be sent c/- 3 Hallys Lane, Cambridge 3434 or left in Crackers’ online tribute book at www.grinters.co.nz “It is what it is.” Roger. Over and out.
McGREGOR OWENS, Wendy Maree – Passed away peacefully at home surrounded by loving family and friends on 21st April 2025. Loving and devoted soulmate of Bob (Bobby) Owens. Loving sister of Kathy and Paul (Jack). Best friend of Denise, along with her nieces and nephews Calum, Bernadette, Hamish, Ivan, Jessica and Samuel.
Te Awamutu Funeral Services, FDANZ
Jordan Goss Funeral Director
