Taylor Te Awamutu-Kihikihi Clyde Graf Waipā-King Country
Mike Pettit
Yvonne Waho Waipā Maori
Marcus Gower Te Awamutu-Kihikihi
John Kopa
Walsh Te Awamutu-Kihikihi
St Pierre
Pocock Pirongia-Kakepuku Les Bennett Pirongia-Kakepuku
Lyn Hunt Te Awamutu-Kihikihi
Sharon Stirling
Liam Bullen
Garry Reymer Waipā-King Country
Clare St Pierre Pirongia-Kakepuku
Graham Jull Te Awamutu-Kihikihi John Wood
Ange Holt
Liz Stolwyk Waipā-King Country
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Brigade marks milestone
The Te Awamutu Volunteer Fire Brigade honoured deputy fire chief Karl Tutty on Saturday, celebrating his 25 years’ of service.
Representatives from Fire and Emergency New Zealand and Auckland Provincial Fire Brigades’ Association mingled with Tutty’s Waipā District Council workmates at the function in the Te Awamutu station.
Outside the brigade, Tutty serves as compliance manager at Waipā District Council. He recently became a Justice of the Peace and is also the district’s Civil Defence Emergency Management controller.
Mayor Susan O’Regan, speaking to a packed station - a testament to Tutty’s popularity and quiet commitmentexpressed the council’s appreciation for his service.
“A quarter of a century of calls at all times of day and night, rushing to emergencies and somehow still showing up fresh-faced at council the next morning.
“One of the most classic sights around our council office in Te Awamutu is seeing him tearing out of the building the moment the fire alarm goes off – full of purpose, a bit of comedy and 100 per cent determination,”
she said.
“It’s moments like those that really sum him up: reliable, passionate and ready to help at a moment’s notice. Through it all, he’s genuine, reliable and just an all-round top bloke. The community is lucky to have someone so dedicated,” said O’Regan.
Tutty has a high attendance in the brigade and is responsible for training compliance, peer support and wellbeing, fire safety and promotions and media liaison.
His personal nature and character provided invaluable input in personnel management and development, said fire chief Ian Campbell.
“This is represented in his movement up the ranks to his current position.”
He has had a long standing presence in the peer support role which not only interacts and supports members from within the brigade but also from the wider Waikato district.
Tutty was accompanied by his wife Felicity Jones and children Kayla, Marcus and Hallie who he acknowledged in a speech, along with fellow brigade members and the council.
Shoplifters nabbed
A team effort involving a retailer and police led to the successful capture of two shoplifters last week.
Quick thinking store staff identified suspicious behaviour and immediately rang 111 with details of the theft, the offenders, their vehicle and direction of travel. This resulted in the arrest and search of the offenders and their vehicle. That search uncovered stolen items linking back to three further local thefts.
One offender was found to be wanted by police for other cases and both were held in custody to appear in court the next day with bail opposed. One was then further remanded to appear on another day on their combined matters, the other pled guilty and was sentenced to a short term of imprisonment.
I have mentioned in the past the concept of bail - police bail or court bail. If a person is arrested and charged with a crime, they may be summonsed or released on police bail - in either case requiring them to appear in court on a certain date. Police bail brings with it specific conditions, such as residing at a specific address, not to consume alcohol or illicit drugs, not to offer violence and not to contact victims and witnesses. After the first court hearing, bail conditions are reissued by the courts and continue as court bail.
Leaf it out...
The madness continues. So now the financially strapped Waipā District Council is installing deciduous trees along the green strips that divide the unwanted Kihikihi cycle path from the roads. It is not just the costs of buying and installing the trees, it is the fact that these trees will drop their leaves every autumn on both the cycle path and the road. WDC does, rarely, sweep leaves from some of Kihikihi’s roads so this will be an additional cost from next year onwards, but, until swept, the leaves will prove to be a hazard to the odd one or two cyclists who use the path and the traffic on the roads. The longer the trees remain, the bigger they will get and the more leaves they will drop. Did Bryan Hudson and his staff never consider this? Were councillors actually aware of what was going on?
Geoff Boxell Kihikihi
What rated top
Our story, “Merger calls grow” after the difference between Waipā and Waitomo district councils’ rate increases was highlighted nabbed top spot in the Te Awamutu News website visits last month.
Breaching bail conditions results in the person being arrested and held in custody to appear back before the court. They risk having their bail rescinded or opposed. If a person fails to turn up to court when bailed to do so, a warrant is issued for their arrest.
When recidivist or serious offenders are arrested, police consider whether or not to oppose bail and therewith holding them in custody to appear in court at the first available opportunity.
This typically happens when there are concerns the person might not appear back in court, would reoffend, tamper with evidence or be a danger to the victim, witnesses or general public.
If granting bail in such cases, the court may consider Electronically Monitored bail. If the bail opposition is upheld however, the offender is remanded in custody until their next court date, rather than being released.
In certain circumstances, the nature of an offender’s charge, combined with their previous conviction history, offences committed whilst previously on bail and served terms of imprisonment can make it mandatory under the Bail Act 2000 for Police to oppose bail.
The home page was second followed by a call from Don’t Burn Waipā spokesman Eoin Fitzpatrick to stall all waste to energy incineration pending a national analysis.
Preserving Pirongia’s history – Jesse Wood’s piece on planting at Alexandra East Redoubt – was fourth with news the night time bike ride on Te Awa River Ride would take place this month.
Visits are again up on the same month last year continuing Te Awamutu News’ solid readership increases of recent times.
On the beat
with Senior Constable DEB HANN
Briefs…
Last edition
The Cambridge Edition newspaper, owned by Stuff, is no more. Its last paper was published last week – less than six months after the demise of the NZME owned Te Awamutu Courier. Good Local Media independent publications Cambridge News, Te Awamutu News and King Country News now stand as the only free print products serving those communities.
Residents’ survey
There is no sight of Waipā District Council’s annual residents’ survey - usually published in June – and when The News went to press the council’s communications team had not responded to a request made last Thursday for a copy. The survey reports on residents’ satisfaction with council services, leadership, financial management and value for money.
Business news
There has been a berm blitz in the streets around Waikato University without any warning... and students saw red after they were fined $70 each for parking on berms. The tickets were refunded just as Waikato Business News went to press. Plus, we have Nanaia Mahuta reflecting on her final years in Parliament. Read more online goodlocal.nz
Official requests
Waipā District Council processed 199 Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act (Lgoima) in the six months ended June 30. The first on January 4 was for information on a noise complaint and the last on June 29 was for property files and all related council correspondence. Media enquiries, many of which are usually answered by communications’ staff, numbered 45.
Betsy’s Dutch dilemma
By Mary Anne Gill
Betsy Reymer will be in two minds when she casts her vote in the upcoming Waikato Regional Council elections.
On one side is her son Garry Reymer; on the other her daughterin-law Liz Stolwyk who is married to Garry’s brother Andrew.
When nominations closed last week, both names appeared on the four-strong list vying for two seats in the Waipā-King Country constituency.
Stolwyk, who farms at Ōhaupō, is
stepping down from Waipā District Council after four terms - two as deputy mayor - to pursue a regional role.
Reymer, a veteran Federated Farmers executive member known for his contributions to the dairy industry, is part of the Rates Control Team ticket. He farms in Cambridge.
Betsy Reymer, 92, says both candidates are strong environmentalists, passionate about nature, waterways and trees.
Asked whether that stems from their Dutch heritage, the mother of 10 - four girls and six boys - laughed
TICKING THE BOXES
Three chase the chains
By Peter Carr
In this initial foray into local election matters it is important that I sort the wheat from the chaff. Or rather the mayoral candidates from those seeking council or ward chairs. So, we have three candidates for the top job in Waipā –-for the chains of office, the car, the finance package and the huge number of hours that will be consumed by the winner. So firstly, a plaudit –anyone who desires the mayor’s seat (static or mobile) must have a streak of insanity in them. Or perhaps masochism. That said I applaud anyone who seriously feels they have the whit, energy and experience for the role. And can make a positive difference.
And it is to experience that I turn first this week. All three candidates have been around the big table for the last three years. Some for longer.
One of them is standing to complete (her words) ‘unfinished business’.
For which read ‘change’. Meanwhile the old managerial guard has
and said, “They’ve gone overboard about nature in Holland.”
She’s never been deeply involved in local politics. She and her late husband John were always busy raising children and farming.
But she’s unimpressed with the mess left behind by recent Waipā District Council work on her Te Awamutu street.
“I’ve left them a note and told them to clean it up,” she says.
So, who will she vote for when her papers arrive next month?
“Family,” Betsy tells The News with a chuckle.
By Peter Carr
departed the building; the new incumbent has her feet firmly under the table and there is certainly change afoot.
Some of it good but, to paraphrase the website of a longstanding, respected councillor, clarity and open government have started to go out of the window. Likewise, the change to council meeting dates to throttle the timeliness of newspaper reporting is something that has not escaped the more wide-awake voters. Again (same councillor on a public domain website) “there is a lack of public transparency over the conducting of council business”.
These are serious charges which begs me to observe that perhaps the two councillors standing for the mayoral seat are doing so due, in part, to changes and accompanying frustrations that have been surfacing lately.
Looking ahead, the first major change will be the forthcoming water-related consortium which will see a sizable number of council staff depart the building(s) to work with
On your marks, get set... go
By Mary Anne Gill
A late surge in nominations - many of them openly critical of the council - has set the stage for a fiery election campaign in Waipā. Most of the action is expected in the eastern part of the district, where 14 candidates are contesting four council seats in the Cambridge ward, and 12 challenging for four spots on the community board.
Maungatautari’s Mike Montgomerie will watch it unfold from the comfort of his armchair, having been elected unopposed. Kane Titchener also secured his seat in the Te AwamutuKihikihi Community Board’s Kakepuku constituency with no competition.
their pan-Waikato counterparts. Governance of how that is handled and the freeing up of council building space should be a prime target for council watchers. Perhaps a reduction of office space in Wilson Street will permit the expansion of the enjoyable but under-strain Cambridge public library. Watch this space. Between now and the first week of October we will be besieged with promises – some of which will be impossible to keep. But getting noticed at this time is the name of the game.
A plethora of public signage, pamphlets, self-aggrandisement (no kissing babies anymore) and brief slots at public hall meetings will be the near-future excitement for young and old.
And on the subject of youth, the percentage of Waipā people under the age of 24 who have not yet registered for voting is alarming.
In a dramatic twist, Yvonne Waho submitted a last-minute nomination for the Māori ward after noticing no one else was standing - only for incumbent Dale-Maree Morgan to file her nomination. The result: a two-way contest in a ward facing the axe.
Te Awamutu-Kihikihi is expected to be more subdued, with seven candidates - six men and one woman - competing for three council seats. On the community board side, three newcomers – including a young Kihikihi candidate - will battle three incumbents for the four seats.
The response to The News’ request for further information from candidates has been outstanding and appears in this edition of The News.
Adding fuel to the fire, Waipā District Council promoted itself as the go-to source for election updates, claiming it would offer “the inside scoop”. Good Local Media editor Roy Pilott said the claim showed naivety and a desire to overshadow The News.
“The council is running the election. It is privy to all information about it – to trumpet itself in the form of a competitive media and declare it will be providing “an inside scoop” is stupid and an insult to the electorate,” he said.
Funeral Director: Jim Goddin
Betsy Reymer
Liz Stolwyk
Garry Reymer
Healthy hearing and your brain
Angella Wolfe, Local Audiologist and owner of Wolfe Hearing, explains the link between hearing and brain health.
As we get older, staying healthy isn’t just about keeping our bodies active – our brains need exercise too. Regular physical activity and keeping our minds engaged helps us stay sharp, capable, and able to enjoy life. Looking after our hearing is a big part of this because when we hear well, our brain stays better stimulated. This helps us handle tricky listening situations, like following a group conversation or tuning out background noise.
HOW HEARING LOSS AFFECTS THE BRAIN
When most people think of hearing, they think of the ears—but it’s your brain that truly makes sense of sound. From recognising a loved one’s voice to understanding conversation in a noisy café, your brain is working hard behind the scenes. Brain scans show that when hearing loss is left untreated, the brain can start to rewire itself in unhelpful ways. For example, parts of the brain that usually process sight may start working harder to interpret speech, because of our greater reliance on lipreading or subtitles rather than actual sounds. Over time, the brain’s natural filters for background noise can weaken, making it harder to focus when there’s chatter or other sounds around.
Many people with hearing loss also experience tinnitus (ringing in the ears), which is often linked to these changes in the brain.
TRAINING THE BRAIN THROUGH BETTER HEARING
The good news is that the brain can adapt back. It takes time, but with the right support, the brain can relearn how to process sound, strengthen the correct pathways, and filter out what’s not important. Hearing aids don’t just make things louder—they help retrain your brain to recognise sounds and make sense of them. Research shows that hearing aid use can even boost what’s called “fluid intelligence”—skills like quick thinking,
memory, and problemsolving that tend to decline naturally as we age. Our “crystallised intelligence”—the knowledge and wisdom we’ve built up over time—stays steady, but keeping our hearing strong helps us hold on to those sharper processing skills. Untreated hearing loss isn’t proven to directly cause dementia, but studies show it can speed up agerelated mental decline. People with significant hearing problems often withdraw from conversations and social activities because it takes so much effort to follow along. This can lead to isolation, lower confidence, and less mental stimulation.
WHY EARLY HELP MATTERS
If you or your loved ones are starting to notice hearing difficulties, it’s worth getting help sooner rather than later. Studies indicate that early use of hearing aids can prevent the brain from making those unhelpful changes and keep us more connected with the world. Modern hearing aids are comfortable, discreet, and come with features like Bluetooth streaming for phone calls, music, and podcasts—so they can improve both hearing and lifestyle.
To book an appointment with us, call 0800 300 303 or visit wolfehearing.co.nz/book-online/. Cambridge | Te Awamutu | Tamahere
FREE 10-day trial and up to 30% off selected advanced AI-driven hearing aid technology
Terms and conditions apply. Available until 30th September 2025.
hearing aid image in this section.
MAKING THE RIGHT CHOICE
There’s no onesizefitsall solution with hearing aids. It’s important to see an audiologist who looks at your hearing, your brain health, your daily activities, and your personal preferences before recommending a device. Independent Audiologists like Wolfe Hearing, can choose from all brands and models to find what works best for you. Today’s hearing aids are the result of years of research. They contain tiny computer chips with smart technology that helps process sound, reduce background noise, and make listening easier. Some hearing aids even contain motion sensors and artificial intelligence to help them understand how to process and amplify what you are listening to.
TRUSTED HEARING CARE, CLOSE TO HOME
At Wolfe Hearing, we want to make sure everyone can access the life-changing benefits of improved hearing. We are a home-grown, independent hearing health practice who have been serving the Auckland and Waikato Regions for 20 years.
With a strong commitment to personalised, people-first care, our team focuses on building lasting relationships. We take the time to understand your unique hearing needs allowing us to provide honest, tailored solutions that truly enhance quality of life. We specialise in fitting the latest hearing aids and with the technology available today, we can achieve incredible results.
Right now we are offering a free 10 day trial and up to 30% off hearing aids with technology designed to support the brains role in hearing.
Hearing aids with a “brain hearing” approach have been designed to restore sounds in the most natural way possible to allow the brain to maintain its processing skills and are proving very successful for both new and experienced hearing aid wearers.
Angella Wolfe, Local Audiologist and owner of Wolfe Hearing
TNN plans 5000 houses
By Chris Gardner
Ngāti Maniapoto whanau could benefit from thousands of homes Te Nehenehenui Group plans to build across the region over the next 25 years.
Te Nehenehenui Group (TNN) chief executive
Samuel Mikaere told The News he hoped plans for 40 affordable rental homes for Ngāti Maniapoto whanau recently announced for Te Kūiti would be the first of many.
“Our aspiration is to do 200 homes in the first five years, and then hopefully by 2050 have built out to 5000 homes within the Rohe of Maniapoto,” said Te Kūiti based Mikaere.
The region has Ōtorohanga and Te Kūiti at its heart and includes Te Awamutu and Kihikihi in the north, Taumarunui in the south, and Kāwhia and Mōkau in the west.
“It all starts with this initial project,” said Mikaere.
Te Nehenehenui is in procurement phase to build 20 two-bedroom homes, 15 three-bedroom homes and five four-bedroom homes on 3.4 hectares of Te Kuiti land it is purchasing from Waitomo District Council between Mangarino Street
and The Esplanade.
“Our goal for infrastructure was spades in the ground best case December worst case February,” Mikaere said.
The design will incorporate tikanga Māori and kaupapa-led principles, with native plantings and shared green spaces to support a thriving community.
The $28 million development, funded by $17 million from the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development with $11 million from the iwi, is being called Te Kirikiriri and is Te Nehenehenui Group’s first foray into housing development.
Mikaere said the plan had emerged from a strategy that had arisen from the iwi and taken about two years.
Asked about how many whanau might benefit from Te Kirikiriri he said: “I think it’s anywhere between 160 to 220 people.”
“Housing across New Zealand for a particular group of people in the lower socio demographic is challenging, so these homes are sorely needed to support the whanau that wish to stay within the Rohe of Maniapoto,” he said.
“We’ve done our own
surveys and were able to ascertain that these homes would be a good start but not necessarily the finishing spot.”
Te Nehenehenui Group is exploring different options for future Māori housing, including rent to buy options, he said.
Asked where Te Kirikiriri’s renters might come from, Mikaere said many would be one step above emergency housing.
“All of this is just an exciting time for Maniapoto,” Mikaere said.
“We are very proud to be able to do this for our people and we look forward to the opening day because it’s very exciting to make a press announcement, but the better part will be when those houses are full and that whole community can feel like it’s been there for a long time and creates a little security for our kids.”
Te Kūiti based Property Brokers sales consultant Mary Tapu said she faced a heartbreaking challenge every week.
“We’re turning away around 20 people every week who are looking for a home, many of them Māori families, kaumātua, and solo parents,” she said.
“Not because they don’t
deserve a place to live. Not because they aren’t trying. But simply because there aren’t enough homes.
“I hear the stories every day through our property managers — people desperate for somewhere to live, ready to move in tomorrow if something was available.”
Tapu said regularly having to turn people away weighed heavily on her heart.
“This project brings hope. It gives whānau a second chance and it shows that when groups come together — iwi, developers, community — we can build something truly meaningful. Not just for today, but for generations to come.”
Briefs…
Domain plan
The revised Karāpiro Domain Reserve Management Plan and Masterplan will go out for public consultation . It received 27 submissions, 20 social media comments and eight social pinpoint comments covering a wide range of subjects. Submissions will be heard next March.
Brunch on Us
Rural Support Waikato is heading to community halls and clubs across the Waikato, Bay of Plenty, Waipā and King Country through its Brunch on Us imitative. The events are intended to help farmers, growers and other rural people check in and help each other out. This series next month includes events in Te Awamutu and Ōtorohanga.
Dozen in the race
Twelve candidates will vie for Hamilton’s mayoralty including current councillors Tim Macindoe and Sarah Thomson. A total of 52 candidates have put their names forward for election in the east, west and Kirkiriroa Māori wards including Cambridge resident Andrew Bydder and former Labour Party MPs Sue Moroney and Jamie Strange. Absent from the list for the first time in years is Kiwi Air founder Ewan Wilson.
Conference expenses
Waipā attendees at the Local Government Conference in Christchurch last month claimed $852.70 in expenses –thought to be incidental expenses such as airport transport and food - to add to the just over $17,000 it cost to fly eight people south and put them up in a hotel.
Column on hold
Our election coverage has squeezed the Te Awamutu News for space this week and as a result Meghan Hawkes’ regular column will run next week.
Trial extended
The 90-minute Cambridge central district parking trial in Victoria, Duke, Empire and Commerce streets is six months in and the council wants to know whether it is working. To find out staff issued a media release after The News went to press last week through its social media platforms.
Te Nehenehenui Group chief executive Samuel Mikaere aspires to build thousands of homes.
Rivals agree on need for seat
By Jesse Wood
Dale-Maree Morgan and Yvonne Waho are the two nominees in what could be the final election for the Waipā Māori ward.
Neither wants to see Māori wards go.
A referendum alongside the local body elections will determine whether or not dedicated Māori wards and constituencies will remain in place for individual councils.
Morgan, who holds the Māori seat in Waipā says she is seeking re-election to continue the work already underway.
“I’m putting my hat back in for a second round,” she said. “Ideally, to complete and progress work that my colleagues spoke humbling accolades about when we voted to retain the role in August 2024.
“I’m advocating to keep Māori wards as a tangible step that honours Te Tiriti - a progressive step already in place.
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No stress - vote yes.”
Morgan was behind the Don’t Burn Waipā campaign, and its works was one of the original reasons she stood in the 2023 by-election.
“I was originally approached and contacted by concerned advocacy groups in 2020/2021, asked to lead the response to the proposed Waste to Energy Incineration Plant application,” Morgan said.
“We held a number of community meetings and got a group of fantastic community members who have valiantly held the space, to resist that plant coming to the Waipā District.”
Candidate number two, Waho, recently moved to Hastings from Te Awamutu but is still regularly on Waipā soil.
She said Māori wards provide a crucial platform to “address the specific needs and aspirations of our communities.”
The position is there to ensure that decision-making reflects Māori values, experiences and Te Tiriti o Waitangi obligations, she said.
“I have strong ties to the Waipā district and travel back often. Although I live outside the district, I stay closely connected to my people and whenua,” Waho said.
“Being present and accessible is important to me, and I’m committed to staying actively involved in the communities I represent.
“I bring a deep commitment to representing our people with integrity, connection, and purpose.
“For me, this is about more than a seat at the table - it’s about ensuring Māori are actively involved in shaping the decisions that affect our whānau, our whenua, and our future.
“I want to help bring a stronger, more connected voice for our people into local government.”
In their own words...
The News asked candidates to provide no more than 30 words on why they were standing for public office and what one bit of difference would they want to make if elected. Some provided more than we asked for, some were repetitive, so we cropped them back. Here is what those who responded had to say.
Waipā mayor
Susan O’Regan: Public service is in my DNA. Local government shapes people’s everyday lives and I’m committed to improving it, and giving back through leadership grounded in care, integrity and experience.
Striking the right balance - delivering the quality services Waipā expects today while maintaining financial discipline and making strategic, future focused decisions that build a stronger district for generations to come.
Mike Pettit: I’m standing for mayor because I can enhance Waipā, through a strong collaborative leadership approach, focused on building stronger community connection and council accountability. Relationship, results, realism; together is better. As mayor, lead the district, ensuring we end double digit rate rises, through making savings within council; while being smarter at how we scope and fund infrastructure and amenity projects.
Clare St Pierre (also Pirongia-Kakepuku ward): I care
Continued next page
In their own words...
deeply about this district where I was born and want a council that does better at the basics. I am offering my abilities to achieve those outcomes. Fix the finances so that we don’t have those large rates rises, debt is well managed, and alternative financing approaches and new revenue streams are available to council.
Waipā Māori ward
Dale-Maree Morgan: Māori wards = a tangible step in honouring Te Tiriti. I’ll continue my commitment to strengthening relationships, inclusive decision-making, genuine community engagement. Continuing to show, Māori wards are a valued addition, in making local government a better space, for those who will come after us.
Yvonne Waho: I stand with a genuine commitment to ensure our voices are heard and represented with integrity, connection, and purpose. I want to help shape decisions that reflect our people’s aspirations — creating positive change and pathways for our mokopuna.
Waikato Regional Council
Clyde Graf: Frustration over skyrocketing rates, costly bureaucracy, and the insidious creep toward co-governance in water management. To tackle this, nine of us have formed the Rates Control Team which I want to be part of to rein in the reckless spending.
Stuart Kneebone: To offer my experience and knowledge of regional council to ensure we are adding value for ratepayers and playing our part to make the Waikato a better place for everyone. Work constructively with central government to apply evidence based decision making, ensuring the pending reforms to local government work. Ratepayers are entitled to effective local government that delivers value.
Garry Reymer: Rates are running very high across the region and more costs coming down the line with Local Government reform and Plan Change 1. Navigating these will take careful managers with good business skills. Ensure that rate increases never exceed the rate of inflation. This may involve total reform of local governance. Liz Stolwyk: I have connections, experience, credibility. I’ll lead conversations around amalgamation, red-tape, transport and rates. With years of business experience, I will keep Waikato on-track as the economic powerhouse of New Zealand. Experience counts, governance matters. I’m standing to provide Waipā/King Country with real visible leadership. Running a dairy farm and event tourism business, I want to reduce bureaucracy to grow Waikato.
Te Awamutu-Kihikihi ward
Lou Brown: As a serving councillor I offer experience and knowledge of the many central government requirements and proposed policies such as water amalgamation, new resource and environmental management and environmental requirements. I have strong local knowledge and connections within our community, especially with senior residents. I will continue to build Civil Defence infrastructure and improve future resilience to respond to emergencies.
Marcus Gower: To provide experienced, common-sense leadership that protects our community values, manages growth responsibly, and ensures Waipā remains a wonderful place to live for generations to come. To ensure that residents’ voices are genuinely heard and acted upon. The difference I will make is bringing practical, accountable representation that solves local problems and rebuilds trust in council.
Graham Jull: I want to represent the
community that I live in and care about, using my experience, leadership and background, to drive Waipa’s future with common sense and affordable governance. My experienced balanced leadership representing Te Awamutu and Kihikihi on Waipā District Council is required now, with increasing local government challenges (infrastructure, Three Waters, rates and community development).
Dean Taylor: I’m passionate about Te Awamutu and was on the community board for 12 years and chaired it for nine. Now semi-retired I have the time to dedicate to the task. I want to encourage our council to be more proactive and more innovative when it comes to finding solutions. I’m keen to see ratepayers’ money spent wisely.
Shane Walsh: I have been frustrated with council decision making and its disconnect from the community. I’m standing to endeavour to reconnect the council with the people it serves. To ensure council listens to ratepayers and focusses on eliminating wasteful and inefficient spending.
Bernard Westerbaan: Council puts more time into propaganda than proper consultation. I am standing for the Better Waipā team because we need to have honesty, integrity, and transparency to rebuild trust. My role in the Better Waipā team is to work with community groups. Success is a vibrant community that looks after everyone.
Pirongia-Kakepuku ward
Les Bennett (also Maungatautari subdivision): Council is not working (no transparency, accountability or community input). I am standing for the Better Waipā team because we need to put the community back in charge.
Clare St Pierre (also mayor): I care deeply about this district where I was born and want council to recognise and listen to rural communities. I will give rural communities
a strong voice. Focus on affordability by sticking to the basics, minimising rates increases, managing debt closely, and advocating for alternative financing approaches and new revenue streams.
Te Awamutu-Kihikihi subdivision
Liam Bullen: The community board is an excellent way to use the skillset and vast experience I have developed as an environmental lawyer to serve and give back to our great district. I want to bridge the gap between council bureaucracy and the everyday person by making sure the council is focussing its spending on things the community wants and needs.
Sharon Stirling: It’s unrealistic to expect any one individual new community board member, councillor or even a new mayor, to effect any great achievement alone. It will be a team effort. The community board have done a massive amount advocating for our community. I’d like to see their work continued, with greater recognition and acceptance from around the council table.
Jill Taylor: The community board are here for the community to listen and act and I have done a bit of that. Several projects have been completed in my past term. The community often feels they are not heard as they feel council carry out their tasks even after consultation. We need to make sure the community are heard.
John Wood: I am standing for the Te Awamutu-Kihikihi Community Board to provide a voice for members of this community – a link between the community and elected councillors and council staff. I would like to promote improvement to the appearance of Te Awamutu shopping area and enhancement of entrances to the town, particularly the main roundabouts.
Supporting our leader
By Karla Rose, Zion Church
I love Te Awamutu and genuinely believe that it is not only one of the best places in the world, but that it is inhabited by some of the most incredible people in the world.
Which is why I have to admit to being saddened when I read in the July 24 edition of the Te Awamutu News the experience of our mayor Susan O’Regan.
Mayor O’Regan has been in office for the past three years and is a Waipā local. While leadership inevitably comes with differing opinions, it is important to reflect on what has been accomplished.
In O’Regan’s term as the Mayor of the Waipā she became the first female mayor in our district, she has connected with local community groups, worked alongside the council to make collaborative decisions to support the growth and improvement of the Waipā, and invested heavily into Ahu-Ake (Waipa Community Spatial Plan), receiving a national award for the work done by herself and her team.
So, to hear that Mayor O’Regan had received abuse, threats and feared for the safety of her family was disheartening. The Waipa I love has a heart for all its people, including those whose opinions vary from our own.
As I considered Mayor O’Regan, her stewardship of our town, and her care for the wider Waipa area, I was drawn to 1 Thessalonians 5:12-28, which reminded me to acknowledge the people who work hard, hold them in high regard, live in peace, be patient with everyone and not pay back wrong for wrong.
Whether Mayor O’Regan is elected for another three-year term leading the Waipa,
or one of the other mayoral candidates is elected to represent us, I believe it is important for the residents of the Waipa, and in particular Te Awamutu, to consider how we treat the people who lead us.
Are we acknowledging the work that they do? Do we hold them in high regard? Are we peaceful and patient, even when things aren’t going the way we’d hope? Or are we repaying wrong for wrong?
The next thing we have to ask ourselves is, if we are not a community that provides safety to our leaders and their families, how can we expect to provide a safe environment for the most vulnerable in our community? If we aren’t respectful and patient, how can we expect to attract or retain leaders who lead well and have a heart to see our community flourish and prosper?
Voting for the future mayor of the Waipa is important, but equally important is, as stated in Hebrews 13:17, having confidence in those leaders and submitting to their authority. Because ultimately they are the ones who will be called to account for what they have and have not done.
And if we, as the people they represent, can be a joy rather than a burden, then we can avoid adding to the load of our leaders and instead allow them to focus on the things that really matter.
Let’s be a community that fosters courage, respect, and vision in its leaders, because when we lift up those who serve, we lift the whole of Waipā.
The Kamchatka earthquake
By Janine Krippner
Last week was an eventful one for the Pacific region, marked by significant geological and oceanic activity. The sequence of events began with a powerful earthquake, followed by a tsunami, then a Russian volcano made an appearance.
summarizing what happened. They also give aftershock forecasts, which estimate the likelihood of additional quakes within the following week, across a range of magnitudes.
At 11:25 am on July 30 (New Zealand time), a magnitude 8.8 earthquake struck off the coast of Kamchatka, Russia, within the active Kuril-Kamchatka subduction zone.
A Pirongia trio scored a clear win in the latest tournament at the Kihikihi Bowling Club.
Kamchatka. I’ve been fortunate enough to see in person, and its activity is not unusual. The current eruption episode started in April, so no, the earthquake did not trigger a new eruption.
Three titles for Waipā
By Jesse Wood
Three Waipā rugby teams have walked away with titles after home victories in Waikato club rugby on Saturday.
Clear winners in Kihikihi
There are a lot of active volcanoes in Kamchatka, so having several ongoing eruptions at any given time is normal.
For tsunamis in the Pacific Ocean, the international Pacific Tsunami Warning Center (PTWC) will post tsunami Advisories. However, it is critical that we follow our own local Civil Defence advice for tsunamis. The strong currents associated with tsunamis alone can be dangerous or deadly and should never be underestimated.
Down the road at Ōhaupō Memorial Park, Ōhaupō hosted Taupiri in the division 1A championship final and Ōhaupō B took on Taupiri B in the bottom-five final.
The Sings of Paterangi
Pirongia gained silverware, while Ōhaupō also added two trophies to their cabinet.
third, was Frankton Junction led by Steve Liddington with Dean Te Mono and Eddie Knox.
Continued from page 4
Skip Denise Te Mono steered the team including Lynda Bennett and Nevenka Drnasin to four successive wins – and chalked up a massive 61 points along the way.
This is a significant seismic event, clocking in as the largest since the 2011 Mw 9.1 Tohoku earthquake that triggered a devastating tsunami. It can be chaos trying to find good information during large and complex events like this one, so here are a few sources that can be helpful to save for next time.
It was case of lightning striking twice – the team won the club’s previous tournament in similar fashion.
Pirongia B faced Suburbs B in the division 1B top-six final at Pirongia Domain.
The earlier match saw Taupiri B pipped 27-26, while the championship final was a 38-7 blow out in front of the home fans.
The event was held on a perfect winter’s day – it was sunny with no wind – a welcome combination at a club situated on a ridge and exposed to all quarters.
Two tournaments next month complete the winter programme, the first next Wednesday.
For events that could impact us in Aotearoa, our own local agencies should always be where we turn for information and advice. That said, there are also some helpful international agencies that provide trustworthy information and context.
Te Awamutu has a wealth of high-quality options available, though when it comes to making the choice, there are several key factors which might be helpful to take into consideration.
The two Cambridge clubs also had a good day, Cambridge Central represented by Robby Davidson (Skip), Mary Hughes and Chris Denton came home second with three wins and a draw, 23 ends won and 52 points.
This event is a good reminder that a tsunami is not a normal wave like we see at our beaches, and it is also not a tidal wave. A tsunami is a set of powerful surges that can carry vast amounts of water and debris inland, then back out to sea. This series of waves often occurs over hours, and the largest wave might take a while to reach your location. This is why it is essential to follow advice until an advisory is formally lifted.
Put simply, school enrolment zones are in place to prevent schools from becoming overcrowded.
A great place to fact-check volcanic activity like this is the Smithsonian Institution Global Volcanism Program, where eruption dates and descriptions are available in one handy place. Claims of a large earthquake triggering an eruption are common during these events, and it is almost always a volcano that has been erupting for quite a while.
Inconceivably, on the first anniversary of Frederick’s death and on her 20th birthday, Vera Sing died at a private hospital in Auckland after an appendicitis operation. Vera with her kindly nature had endeared herself to many, and the utmost sorrow was expressed at her early death.
Know your principal
Their 25-12 victory against the Hamilton-based team was the culmination of an unbeaten season.
Rangy second five-eighth Chris Ferguson crossed the chalk twice in the six tries to one victory.
Are you looking for a school that will be the right fit for your children?
So, perhaps the rst consideration is do you live in a school’s enrolment zone?
Tom Kirkbride, Dean Hall and Sani Ramuwai scored tries and Kingston Grant added 10 points off the kicking tee.
priorities will depend on your child’s needs and preferences, and on your circumstances.
A Cambridge Bowling Club trio of Bill James (skip) Dave Lewis and Bill Edge secured fourth place with three wins and a draw also.
For information on earthquakes, earthquake.usgs.gov is an excellent resource. During significant events like this one, they do a great job of
Wedged in between these two, for
There are many reasons why choosing the right school is important, not least of which is that, put simply, it can make a big di erence to your children’s happiness and wellbeing. It can also have a bearing how well they do at school.
In the aftermath of the earthquake, headlines quickly circulated claiming it had triggered a volcanic eruption. Klyuchevskoy, the volcano in question, is actually one of the more frequently active volcanoes in
Practically, here are some things to think about, and – maybe – some questions to ask. In Zealand, Government, or state, funded schools - most in the country - are subject to what’s known as school zoning.
There are several ways you can nd out if the school you’re considering has an enrolment zone and whether you live within it.
The winning trio was Lynda Bennett, Denise Te Momo and Nevenka Drnasin.
Then, also consider how close a school is to your home, because that gives rise to another consideration, how will your child – or children – get to and from school?
Thankfully, this was not a repeat of the 2004 Boxing Day tsunami or the 2011 Tōhoku tsunami, both of which caused catastrophic devastation and tragic loss of life. Still, it serves as a powerful reminder that we live on a geologically active planet, and that events unfolding far from our own shores can still have a direct impact on us.
If you’re working after school hours, does the school you’re considering provide supervision, or after school care?
With all this said, it might then be helpful to list your child’s education priorities. These
Nau Mai, Ha e Mai
ur
and small enough to know everyone. We o er a welcoming atmosphere with a strong
For example, consider what your child’s musthaves are, and what you could compromise on.
Four months later a social was held in the Paterangi Hall to farewell to the Sing family. There was a large gathering of friends from local and surrounding districts.
Talking to other families whose children go to those schools can help you with your decision making.
After the musical part of the programme Mr Ryburn presented to each of the Misses Sing a suitably inscribed serviette ring, and to Miss E Sing a number of music volumes as a special
Make appointments to visit your nearest schools in order to meet with the principals and those who will potentially be your child’s new teachers.
Visit at di erent times of the day to observe class time and a break or lunchtime.
with special education needs or talents is also highly important. Additional learning support is available in every school, it’s planned to support not only students, but also educators and whānau in a range of di erent ways, depending on individual needs.
Gabe Ghersi, Josh Gore, Liam Palaone and Cory Sargent were the other Ōhaupō try scorers. Dean Fullerton kicked four conversions.
You can also check the Education Review O ce (ERO) report for the schools you are considering.
token for services rendered to the church. Mr Ryburn having known the family for forty-four years was indeed very sorry to lose them as neighbours and wished them all happiness and prosperity in their new home. Rev McKenzie endorsed the remarks of the former speaker and regarded their departure a distinct loss. James Sing thanked them for the presents and also the appreciation shown to the family. Miss G Sing feelingly expressed thanks for the good wishes of the gathering and said they would always look upon Paterangi as their home, wherever they may be.
KNOW YOUR PRINCIPAL
Organise to go to open days or evenings. A school’s approach to supporting children
Kihikihi School Vision: “HeTāngata Ako,HeWhānauAko-Learnerstoday, Leaderstomorrow.”Ourvisionforall tamarikipertainstothebeliefthatwhen anindividuallearns,sotoowilltheentire family.Whenwealllearntogether,then ourfuturetogetherwillflourish.
both English and full immersion Māori medium educational opportunities for our students.
focus on love, care, and support.
Here’s what students Harley and Erin have to say: Our
is
Ms. Bagley is the best – she’s super funny and makes us feel like we’re part of one big happy family. Our teachers plan cool things for us and we’ve got heaps of fun things to do!
We pride ourselves on being able to deliver a curriculum rich in Tainuitanga, Māori culture, local history and authentic learning contexts which are focused on the child’s academic, social and emotional needs. Our learners today will become the leaders of tomorrow. We strive to provide a safe space for our students to learn and play through a Positive Behaviour for Learning model that is deeply embedded through our school values and graduate profile.
We have large open spaces, strong visible
• We are innovators and trailblazers - we grow great leaders who leave as Year 6’s con dent in who they are.
• We have visitors that inspire us and show us who we can be in the future.
• We go on camps, trips to the zoo or other places, be enviro warriors, explore our ngāhere (bush), play
The o ce is a government department which reviews schools as part of its work, and this can help you form a picture of a school’s strengths and its next steps for development. When you’ve decided where you’d like your child to be, contact the school for an enrolment pack and to nd out more about the enrolment process.
culture, two separate playgrounds, our own pool, a huge veggie garden, specialist teachers and programmes specific to our curriculum, smaller class sizes and an amazing sta who care and support all students to find success. Located near the domain in Kihikihi, we are the hub of the community.
We invite any future enrolments to visit and see what learning looks like in our space. Nau mai, haere mai!
sports or create pieces of art at mosaic club, and we love hanging out with our buddies.
• We have amazing murals.
• Our Kapa haka rōpū is loud and proud.
We’re lucky to have such a great school and we want you to be a part of it, too! Come and visit us!
Te Awamutu Primary School (TAPS) - Together Achieving Personal Success
When you visit our school you may notice a little bit of magic that sets us apart from the rest. What is the secret charm? It’s a community collaboration. Our wider community works together for the greater good of our taonga - our treasure; that is our children.
“And
At TAPS, we live by 4 main values - Respect, Responsibility, Resilience and Relationships. These attributes allow our community minded vibe to flourish into something enchanting and our students to transform into smart, emotionally intelligent and ethical citizens. TAPS is a great place to learn, work and be a part of!
I’m proud to be your Principal - Sharon Griffiths
Pirongia B celebrate their division 1B title win against Suburbs B. Photo: Julie Gibson
Kihikihi School is a full primary school (years 1 to 8) and provides
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Simon Whale 022 469 2423 waipaali@gmail.com | www.waipaaluminium.co.nz
Miami spice
Jan Bilton
Florida has been an adopter of other cooking styles such as Californian, French and Thai for years. However, Floridians have looked on their own back doorstep and found that the multicultural population has left a myriad of flavours and foods that have fast become incorporated into the cooking of their state.
South Florida is the crossroads of the Caribbean and Latin America. Cuban, Nicaraguan, Haitian and Colombian communities are flourishing. There is a vast choice of restaurants, including Jamaican, Trinidadian, Argentinian, and Peruvian, all influencing home cooking.
The raw materials available are numerous. Citrus groves supply most of the United States with oranges, tangerines, limes and grapefruit. Florida also grows more exotic fruits such as mangoes, star fruit, passionfruit, lychees and sapotes. There are also more than 164,000 hectares of cane fields. This has popularised desserts which are usually fruitbased.
The warm weather encourages low-fat cooking. Caribbean spices (cumin, ginger chillies) and herbs (coriander, garlic, oregano, thyme) add pungent flavours. Fruits, vegetables and seafood provide variety beyond belief. Florida’s Hispanic-American cuisine has come of age.
CHURRASCO
A Nicaraguan delight popular in Florida. 500g thick scotch steaks or similar
Marinade: 3 tablespoons chopped parsley
2 large cloves garlic, crushed
2 tablespoons each: red wine vinegar, olive oil
Trim any excess fat from the meat. Cut the steaks lengthwise into 2cm wide strips.
Combine the marinade ingredients and place in a plastic bag. Add the meat and move it around so it is well-coated. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, turning occasionally. Preheat a barbecue or grill pan to hot. Drain the meat and pat dry. Add a dash of oil to the grill or pan. Grill for 1-2 minutes each side, until cooked to your preference.
It’s great served with Gallo Pinto—steamed rice, sautéed diced onion and drained kidney beans combined—and a herb sauce such as Chimichurri. Serves 4.
CHIMICHURRI
1/2 red capsicum, seeded and diced
3 tablespoons each: olive oil, white vinegar, chopped parsley
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, crushed chilli flakes to taste
Combine all the ingredients and serve with meat, poultry or seafood. Makes about 3/4 cup.
Melt the butter in a heavy saucepan and sauté the onion until tender. Add the pumpkin, chilli, stock, thyme, salt and pepper. Cover and simmer until the pumpkin is tender. Purée until smooth. Before serving, stir in the 1/2 cup of cream.
To make the topping, lightly whip the cream together with the cumin, coriander and cayenne. Ladle the soup into
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bowls and top with a little of the whipped cream and some chopped chives. Serves 6.
FLORIDA’S CHICKEN FRICASSEE
Marinade:1/4 cup lemon juice
2 cloves garlic, crushed 1/2 teaspoon each: ground cumin, salt
Chicken: 8 chicken portions (about 1.75 kg)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 each: onion, red capsicum (seeded), chilli, all diced
3/4 cup each: chicken stock, dry white wine
1/4 cup tomato purée
2 bay leaves
2 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
Combine the lemon juice, garlic, cumin and salt. Place the chicken in a plastic bag. Add the marinade. Move the chicken around to coat evenly. Refrigerate and marinate for at least 2 hours.
Heat the olive oil in a non-stick frying pan. Remove chicken and pat dry. (Reserve the marinade.) Pan-fry until lightly browned. Transfer to a platter.
Add the diced onion, capsicum and chilli. Sauté until softened but not browned. Return the chicken to the pan. Add the marinade, stock, wine, purée and bay leaves. Bring to a simmer then reduce the heat to low. Cover and cook for about 30 minutes. Add the peeled and diced potatoes and continue cooking for 20 minutes or until tender.
Great garnished with a combo of chopped coriander leaves, parsley and grated lemon rind. Serves 4.
Churrasco
Miami-style pumpkin soup
Women from our community are welcomed to join together with women of all faiths for a shared lunch. Bring food from your own tradition to share.
Tuesday 12th August 12.00 noon
St John’s Anglican Parish Lounge 162 Arawata St, Te Awamutu
LEVER, Brenda Margaret (nee Ferguson) – Loved daughter of the late Bob and Beryl Ferguson. Much loved sister of Sandra, Denise and Avril, their husbands and family. Dearly loved wife and soul mate of Peter and mum to Debbie, Amy and spouses and Fun Nana to Summer and Sophie. Messages may be sent to av.pete@outlook. co.nz
Confirm your attendance by contacting Steph Owen871 3400 or bandsowen1943@gmail.com Multi -cultual women’s shared lunch
Ruapuha Uekaha Hapū Trust (Hauturu East 8)
Nominations for the Election of Trustee
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a call for nominations has been opened to appoint one (1) trustee to Ruapuha Uekaha Hapū Trust.
Nominations for the one (1) trustee position must be made on the Nomination Form available from the Returning Officer:
GHA
P.O. Box 1712
ROTORUA
Phone 07 348 3599
returningofficer@gha.co.nz
The nomination form may also be accessed from the Ruapuha Uekaha Hapū Trust website www.ruht.co.nz. The Nomination Form is to be completed by the Nominee and countersigned by two registered adult beneficiaries of the Ruapuha Uekaha Hapū Trust. Nominations will close at 5pm on Friday 22 August 2025. Candidates are required to provide a copy of their curriculum vitae, a personal profile, and a photo along with their completed nomination form.
Only registered adult members (18 Years +) of Ruapuha Uekaha Hapū Trust beneficiaries register will be eligible to vote.
Board of Trustees
POKURU HALL AGM
THURSDAY 21 AUGUST 2025
@ 7.00PM at the Hall All welcome
or small. One call does it all. Call Ross 021 063 2268
MARWICK, Frances Walker – 26/11/1937 –31/7/2025. Dearly beloved wife of Brian Craigie Marwick (dec) of Orkney, Scotland. Much loved mother of Valerie and Malcolm, sisterin-law of Margaret Kemp, grandmother to Chelsey, Mitchel, Briony and Lauren, step-grandmother to Nick and Charlie. Now resting with her Lord, Jesus Christ. A service for Frances will be held at the Te Awamutu Baptist Church, 106 Teasdale Street, Te Awamutu on Monday, 11 at 12 noon followed by private cremation. The service will be live streamed please email office@ teawamutufunerals.co.nz for the link. All communications to the Marwick family, PO Box 137, Te Awamutu 3840.
Te Awamutu Funeral Services, FDANZ
O’CONNOR, Lenis Gertrude – Passed away on July 28, 2025 in her 93rd year. Loved wife of the late Kevin. Dearly loved mother and mother in law of Catherine & Wayne Strawbridge, Peter, Annette and the late Greg Irwin, Bernice & Richard Holmes, Margaret & Justin and the late Sean Beacom. Loved Grandmother of 14 and great grandmother of many. At Lenis’ request a cremation has been held. All communications to the O’Connor family, PO Box 137, Te Awamutu 3840.
Te Awamutu Funeral Services, FDANZ
RYE Pamela Yvonne (nee Bainbridge) – Pam passed away peacefully on July 30, 2025 at Windsor Court, Ohaupo, aged 87 years. Loved wife of Phil (dec). Mother of Joanne (dec) & Rob, Faye, and Bryce & Di. Nana to Briar, Lucin, Regan, Jorja, and Samantha. Great Nana of seven. Special thank you to Camellia Resthome staff and Windsor Court staff for your exceptional care of Pam. A service for Pam has been held. All communications to the Rye family, PO Box 137, Te Awamutu 3840. Te Awamutu Funeral Services, FDANZ
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