Take your seats
By Chris Gardner
Waipā District Council community services
manager Brad Ward has vowed to replace seven 70-year-old park benches from Te Awamutu and Districts War Memorial Park – even though they have just been restored.
Community group Park Maintenance Committee members Marc Dawson and Peter Fletcher spent just under $500 restoring the metal pipe and wooden benches and adding commemorative plaques.
The council had already announced plans to spend $58,000 replacing selected seating and rubbish bins.
“It would be ridiculous for them to be removed now,” Dawson said. “Not good optics.”
But Ward told The News, in a statement, it was concerning and disappointing Dawson and Fletcher had not sought permission before undertaking the work.
“For the Te Awamutu War Memorial Park seating, we are continuing with our renewal programme as agreed at the recent Te Awamutu War Memorial Park partners and stakeholders’ forum,” he said.
“We have a carefully planned and budgeted maintenance and renewal programme which is carried out to a schedule and in line with best practice. We replace assets that have reached the end of their useful lives, such as these benches, and ensure any maintenance is done to meet all relevant legislative requirements, particularly regarding health and safety.”
Dawson was told at the April 16 meeting of Te Awamutu-Kihikihi Community Board by chair Ange Holt that the seats would be replaced.
“There is nothing more we can do as a community board, that decision has been made and it’s out of our hands.”
Holt had previously lamented being ignored by council staff,
But Dawson and Fletcher continued with their restoration plans, funded by an anonymous donor, in a bid to save the seats from removal.
They were installed in the early 1950s by public subscription as part of the war memorial
Dawson called for the council to review its decision under reserves manual rules that require the council to keep its management plan under continuous review, adapting to changing circumstances or in accordance with increased knowledge.
Community Board deputy chair Kane Titchener said he had passed Dawson’s request onto the council.
Fletcher said he had done hundreds of voluntary hours in the park over the years and had the support of around 50 next of kin of the fallen who wished to see the historic seats maintained.
Arohena resident Maria Blackwell supported Dawson and Fletcher’s restoration.
“If you look at the benches now there’s nothing wrong with them,” she said.
“Why spend money replacing something that does not need replacing?”
Council candidate Bernard Westerbaan is also backing the restoration project.
“Without exception, the general public witnessing the reconstruction of the seats and learning of their pedigree, and the expense to replace them, are all in support of retaining the original seats,” he said.
“They are all keen for Waipa District Council to change their mode of operation concerning failing to respect heritage and memorial features and to cease needless spending.
“The fact of horrendous debt seems to be the best break toward closing down the council’s erasure plan.”
Friction over road name
By Mary Anne Gill
A Waipā councillor has reignited debate over road naming rights, arguing that private landowners should have the final say on their land - even when council policy prioritises Māori names.
Crs Roger Gordon and Philip Coles were dissenting voices when the council’s Service Delivery committee approved the name Taawharuwharu Lane for what is currently a private right of way at 2/1215 Kaipaki Rd west of Cambridge.
Landowners, the Marsden family, had proposed Marsden Ave or Marsden Lane, citing a possible ancestral link to Rev Samuel Marsden, a missionary who introduced Christianity to New Zealand.
Waipā District Council’s naming policy emphasises increasing the use of Māori names, particularly those with local topographical or historical relevance.
Development Engineering team leader Harry Baxter noted that while Marsden was a nationally significant figure, he had no direct connection to the Waipā district.
Gordon argued that ownership of the private
Continued on page 2
Historic seat restorers Marc Dawson (seated) and Peter Fletcher have the support of Maria Blackwell and Bernard Westerbaan after restoring seven 70-year-old seats at Te Awamutu and Districts War Memorial Park. Photo: Chris Gardner
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Friction over road name
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land should be quite strong in determining the name of the road.
“That would outweigh the other considerations as long as it did comply with one of the factors of our policy which in this case it does.”
The naming policy gives weighting to topographical features within the community.
“On principle I think this is not a good move. There have been many occasions in the past, street names across the region, after the developer or the owner of the land. A lot of precedent has been set in terms of road naming.
“If the landowner wishes to see that name given to the road, I think that is a strong case,” said Gordon.
Cr Andrew Brown said he supported the Taawharuwharu name.
There had been a proliferation of names which meant nothing to the district in the past.
“I’m pleased to see a name recommended which has meaning to the area it is in.”
Māori ward councillor Dale-Maree Morgan and mana whenua representative Hinerangi Kara also backed the name Taawharuwharu. Kara warned against undermining the council’s own policy, calling it “a dangerous and slippery slope.”
Deputy mayor Liz Stolwyk acknowledged the ongoing friction around road naming and suggested a compromise might still be possible.
“In this instance, it was either Marsden Lane or nothing else,” she said.
“Given the Marsdens are the current and continuing landowners, I believe another solution could be explored.”
Brown said land ownership was not permanent and should not override cultural or historical considerations.
Despite the opposition, the committee approved the name Taawharuwharu Lane, aligning with the council’s policy to honour local Māori heritage and topographical features.
• What do you think? Email editor@ goodlocal.nz
On the beat with Senior Constable Ryan Fleming
Dealing with cyberbullying
It used to be that bullying ended at the school gate or the workplace door. Now, it follows people home. In our digital age, where nearly every Kiwi carries a phone in their pocket, bullying has gone online— and its effects can be just as damaging, if not more so.
Cyberbullying doesn’t discriminate. It targets students, parents, business owners, and even seniors. It can come in the form of abusive messages, cruel memes, online shaming, or the spreading of false rumours on social media. And for many, the emotional impact can be devastating -affecting mental health, relationships, and even livelihoods.
Here in Te Awamutu, we pride ourselves on being a tight-knit community. But even in smaller towns, digital harm is a growing problem. As more of our lives move online, we need to be just as vigilant and supportive in digital spaces as we are face-to-face.
Thankfully, New Zealand has laws to protect people from online abuse. The Harmful Digital Communications Act (HDCA) was introduced in 2015 to tackle exactly this issue. Under the Act, it’s illegal to send or publish digital messages that are intended to cause serious emotional
Election reflection
Our three mayoral candidates are all longstanding councillors voicing their frustration with local government.
Mayor O’Regan wanted a reduced council populated by people with sound business experience the sort you would find on the board of a publicly listed company. Mr Petit bemoans the 1000 page agenda and his solution is a speed-reading course. Mrs St Pierre says councillors are denied critical information upon which sound business decisions can be made. Each in their own way demonstrates why we do not get the outcomes we deserve or the correct people standing for council. It’s time for the council to assert its authority by holding the executive to account.
No corporate board anywhere in the world would accept such large agendas, such obfuscation or lack of accountability from its executive, and we should not expect our council to accept it either.
This election makes an informed decision and vote for the candidates who you believe have the ability to affect the change needed to bring true accountability to our local democracy here in Waipa.
Ray Milner
Cambridge
distress. This includes texts, emails, social media posts, images, and videos.
The HDCA sets out 10 communication principles—such as not inciting hatred, not disclosing sensitive personal facts, and not harassing or intimidating others. If someone feels targeted by harmful online content, they can contact Netsafe, an independent organisation that helps mediate and resolve digital abuse cases. In serious situations, the matter can even be taken to the District Court.
So what can we do as a community?
Parents and guardians can talk to their kids about online safety and kindness. Report abusive or threatening content rather than engaging with it.
Support those being targeted—don’t stand by in silence.
And if you’re a victim yourself, know you’re not alone. There is help, and the law is on your side.
Cyberbullying thrives in silence. Let’s make it clear that in Te Awamutu, our community standards extend to the online world too. Respect, decency, and accountability aren’t old-fashioned— they’re just good sense, on and off the screen.
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Jets return
Air New Zealand has confirmed jets servicing a domestic route will return to Hamilton Airport in September. A 171-seat Airbus A320 will operate five days a week on the Hamilton–Christchurch route.
Money raised
Nearly $300,000 has been raised for the Cambridge Fire Brigade, Hato Hone St John and the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Trust by a campaign launched by Windsor Park Stud and the Schick family. Jimmy Shick, 10, died when an ATV rolled on a rural property near Cambridge and his father Rodney Schick, owner of the stud, was critically injured and remains in hospital.
New executive
Eeva-Liisa Wright has been appointed Waipā District Council’s new group manager Service Delivery from June 9. Wright takes over from Dawn Inglis who leaves after 15 years.
Jamboree announced
Mystery Creek Events Centre will host the 24th Aotearoa New Zealand Scout Jamboree from December 27, 2026 to January 6, 2027. It is the third jamboree in a row to be held at Mystery Creek.
Book Fair
The Te Awamutu Rotary Club Book Fair will run from Thursday to Sunday, next week. The annual fair raises funds for several charities and donates unsold books, DVDs and other items to children’s hospital wards and the Waikeria Prison library. Sunday is the $10 a banana-box full of books day.
Liquor hearing
Applications for the renewal of the on licence and manager’s certificate for Five Stags Leamington were considered by the Waipā District Licensing Committee in Cambridge on Monday. The results were unavailable when The News went to press.
The killing of an industry
By Jesse Wood
When Te Awamutu-based greyhound trainer Corey Steele heard racing minister Winston Peters’ December announcement outlawing the sport in New Zealand, he was shocked.
The sport is being phased out across 20 months to allow time to rehome the estimated 2900 racing greyhounds nationwide.
The last official racing event could be in July 2026 or sooner.
After meetings with Greyhound Racing New Zealand, the Government appointed Ministerial Advisory Committee (MAC) concluded rehoming the total dog population by July 2026 was not possible, and that there would need to be a rehoming effort of 24-30 months post closure.
Details of this are still to come.
Peters said the decision was driven by protecting the welfare of racing dogs.
At the time he said “despite significant progress made by the greyhound racing industry in recent years, the percentage of dogs being injured remains persistently high and the time has come to make a call in the best interest of the animals”.
Greyhound racing is in Steele’s blood and has been the family industry for several generations.
“My great grandfather Jim Steele won the Waterloo Cup back in the 1920s or 1930s, when it was still in the coursing days, but I’m a thirdgeneration trainer,” Steele said.
The Waikato Greyhound Racing vice president trains his dogs on dad Wayne and mum Tracey’s property, Te Māwhai Racing Kennels.
“The welfare of the dogs means everything to me. What’s been hard mentally is being told about our lack of welfare,” Steele said.
“I love my dogs like they’re my children. It’s hard.
“The health of the dog is the most important thing. One, they can’t perform if they’re not healthy, and two, we’re the most transparent sport that involves animals in the world.
“If there’s any injury on the track, it can be so minor as a chip in a toenail, that dog can’t race for seven days because it’ll take that long to grow back.
“Every single greyhound has been checked by a professional veterinarian prior to going into the kennel block, prior to going on the track.”
Steele said that as well as the government, the trainers have the owners, Greyhound Racing New Zealand, the Racing Integrity Board and MPI to answer to.
“We’ve been answering to them so much over the last four years, that the announcement was definitely a shock. It changed my life in the space of about half an hour,” he said.
“We’ve exceeded all expectations and it’s still not good enough.
There had been regular reviews the industry had ticked the boxes, he said.
“With dogs being a man’s best friend, it draws on the heart strings of every New Zealander. So, it’s a very easy thing for people to have an opinion without knowing the facts.”
Steele said they heard nothing from Peters personally in the lead up to the announcement – or ever.
He had been working alongside the board of Greyhound Racing New Zealand for two years as an emerging director.
“My aim was to become a director on our board because I love the sport so much. I want collaborative success for everyone within the sport and I love the dogs. I want nothing but the best for everyone’s dogs,” Steele said.
“Winston never spoke to us from the day he got in as racing minister to the day of the announcement. We did not have one bit of correspondence with Winston himself.”
Since his parents gave him the opportunity to forge his own pathway in the industry, Steele has gone all in. Now his working future is uncertain.
“Mum and Dad have spent 30 years doing that, setting up this property to be the best greyhound facility that they can have, and it’s all wasted now,” he said.
“All the kennels that we’ve built, that we’ve spent nearly $100,000 on, gone - they’re worth nothing. The sheds, the irrigation system for our running track, our paddocks, it’s all for nothing now.
“On Christmas Day, we still go out and work. When we’re sick, back when we all had Covid, we were out there basically crawling in the kennels to make sure the dogs had the utmost care. Nothing like that has ever changed. The dogs come first; they always have.
“They’re talking about the welfare of the dogs, but very quickly they’ve forgotten about the welfare of the human.”
• See Where will they go, page 12
Funeral Director: Teri Keir
Corey Steele and Opawa Sooty at home.
BJ (Boston Junior) at 3 months old. He’s now 16 months, and his career cut short with impending ban.
John Bertrand Collectables Buying in Te Awamutu and Waikato Next Week
Once again, the gold and collectables buyers from Wellington company John Bertrand Collectables are visiting Te Awamutu and Waikato next week. Mr Tony Grant from the company says, “If you are downsizing or wanting to dispose of things because they no longer serve any purpose to you or your family bring them in”. “Next week will be a great opportunity to have any items you want to sell assessed by our buyers” said Mr Grant. Particularly wanted are Gold and Silver (in any of its forms) and Collectables such as Coins, Banknotes, War Medals, Old Wind-up Watches and other interesting Small Collectables.
“We are keen buyers, especially of the items in the list below” said Mr Grant. “Nothing is too small for our consideration. We are just as happy buying 1 item as we are buying 1,000 items” he said. The buyers will be in Te Awamutu and Waikato next week. (see details below). As Tony Grant points out “If you are in doubt about any items you may wish to sell, bring them along for an instant appraisal.”
Gold & Silver At Near Record
Prices
During these uncertain times
we have seen a sharp increase in the price of precious metals. The gold price in New Zealand is at near record levels so gather up all your unwanted items and take them along to the buyers. Tony Grant says “We can buy old gold items in all forms, including Jewellery (Rings, Chains, Brooches etc), Coins (Sovereigns and the like), Alluvial (River Gold), virtually anything, even Gold Teeth! We also need all Sterling Silver including Cups, Tea Services, Cutlery and Old Coins” he said.
Interesting Small Collectables Wanted
The buyers from John Bertrand (Collectables) Ltd, visiting Te Awamutu and Waikato next week are happy to look at any interesting items, for example vintage pocket and wristwatches such as Rolex, Men’s Omega, Breitling and gold watches etc. Also wanted, pre 1950’s picture postcards, Maori and Pacific artefacts, old fountain pens and other small antique or historical items.
“If you have something unusual which you would like to sell, please bring it into one of our venues, we would like the chance to at least have a look at it” said Tony Grant, buyer for the Company. “We will consider anything which may be of interest to a collector” he said.
Some Big Dollars in Early Banknotes
Early New Zealand Banknotes dated before 1932 are currently fetching big money! This is according to Mr Tony Grant, author of the John Bertrand New Zealand Coin & Banknote Catalogue Mr Grant is in Te Awamutu and Waikato next week on a buying trip for John Bertrand (Collectables) Ltd and would be very keen to see any of these issues. “We will pay at least $300 for any undamaged Ten Shilling or One Pound
banknote from a New Zealand trading bank dated 1932 or before.
Denominations of five pounds and higher would be worth from $700. “Any banknote dated prior to 1900 would be worth at least $1000” said Mr Grant.
Also purchased are any Reserve Bank of New Zealand pre-decimal issues, especially 50 Pound notes. All overseas banknotes are also wanted, especially early Pacific Island issues.
Collectors Need War Medals
Currently, throughout NZ and the world there is a big demand by collectors for war medals. These cover all wars right through from the New Zealand Land Wars and the Boer War, to the First and Second World Wars and the later Korea and Vietnam conflicts. New Zealand Servicemen and Women first served overseas in the Boer War in South Africa around 1900 and the war medals awarded for this service are needed by the buyers, as are any other Medals from early New Zealand and the New Zealand Wars. General service medals from both the First and Second World Wars will also be purchased, but as can be imagined these were awarded in fairly large numbers. “If a group of medals has any special award for bravery such as the Military Medal, Military or Flying Cross or other medals for Distinguished Conduct or Meritorious Service, these can add great value to a group” stated Mr Tony Grant, buyer for John Bertrand (Collectables) Ltd. “Many families have old medals, some dating back to early Imperial days, that they are not sure what to do with. These are better off in the hands of collectors who will look after them. We will be happy to look at any war medals whatsoever, just bring them in to venues” he said.
Old Coins Can Toss Up a Rarity
Do you have a bunch of old coins sitting around in your drawers and cupboards? You just never know what rarities may be lurking there. The advice from Tony Grant from John Bertrand (Collectables) Limited is to “bring them in and let us have a look”. “No need to sort anything out just bring them in ‘as is’ and please don’t clean them! We can go through coin accumulations and collections fairly quickly” he said. The buyers are particularly keen to buy pre 1946 New Zealand Silver Coins for at least 20 times their face value (more for quantity). “In any event we will buy All Coins,” said Mr Grant.
Women take up the challenge
By Jon Rawlinson
Long time rural general practitioner Elly Kroef and Te Tokanganui-a-Noho peka Māori Women’s Welfare League are urging women to take advantage of upcoming free breast screening opportunities.
Early detection of cancer can make all the difference between life and death, she said, particularly in rural areas and among Māori and Pasifika.
Women aged 45-69 are eligible for free screening every two years.
Taking up the challenge for the first time last week was Belinda Ratima of Te Kūiti.
“Women should take the opportunity and be proactive about early detection because it definitely saves lives,” said Kroef, who is based at Te Kūiti Medical Centre.
She is supported in spreading the word by Māori Women’s Welfare League branches in Te Kūiti, Ōtorohanga, Te Awamutu, Kāwhia and Kaiewe.
“We’ve taken on the Tatou Tatou breast screen project to encourage and assist local wahine with registration and screening,” said Dede Downs, one of the faces of a poster campaign encouraging women to contact them for help with the screening process.
As accessibility may be a barrier to rural women, outcomes can be more severe and mortality rates higher.
“It doesn’t take long, it’s not stressful. Do it for the next generation,” said Ratima after her mammogram.
“Rural women are more likely to have their breast cancer more advanced at the time of diagnosis. It’s because of the difficulty in accessing the service, because of travel times,” said Kroef.
“Some of the highest risk groups have the lowest uptake of screening, so we want everyone who is
mobile unit but regular checks are still encouraged, especially for those with a history of cancer in their families.
“Self-checks are still important, particularly for younger women who are not part of the screening programme,” she said.
“If they have breast lumps they should present to their GPs.”
Breast Screen Midland, one of eight providers contracted to provide services for Breast Screen Aotearoa, has a screening caravan which regularly visits Waikato and
Antibiotics - some useful tips
Take as prescribed to treat bacterial infections. Not usually recommended for infections like colds, coughs, flu and most ear, nose and throat infections; antibiotics won’t make you get better any faster. If you have generally good health, your body’s immune system can easily fight these infections without antibiotics.
Normally antibiotics are only prescribed for more serious infections caused by bacteria, like pneumonia, whooping cough and meningococcal disease. In these situations, antibiotics can be lifesaving.
You should always take antibiotics according to the instructions, and complete the entire course even if you’re feeling better.
For more detailed info, go to: healthify.nz
Contact us now on 07 872 0300
Belinda Ratima (left) who lives in Te Kūiti, after her first mammogram in the mobile caravan with Priya Prasad (mobile administration) and mammographer Ashleigh Price (right).
Contract Milkers
Deserve Greater Protection
Sharemilkers Consultants’ Contract Milkers Experience Survey makes for disturbing reading. The survey, which took place in December 2024, analysed the responses of 276 individuals working in the milking sector, 201 of whom are current contract milkers, equating to 12.8% of the New Zealand total. What those contract milkers told the survey is deeply concerning. 43% of respondents report abusive behaviour from a farm owner. 72.7% reported having had a contract milking experience that caused a mental and/or financial setback, including withheld payments. 82.5% of respondents reported this impacted their family situation or relationships, and 38.4% said they stayed in this situation because they were worried about where they would live if they left.
Why is this? Is this some hidden issue? Some deep malaise that the industry is too frightened to talk about? Is it that respondents are often in remote situations and feel alone, isolated and vulnerable? If so, this survey has done the milking industry a great service in bringing this issue to light and should be applauded for that.
But I want to know more. I’ll be working with the lead author of the survey, Louise Gibson, to try to get to the core of the issue. Once there, I’ll see what scope the Government, through Law, has to improve the legal protection of contract milkers. They deserve it—just about every employee sector has substantial legal protection and welfare agencies looking after their interests—contract milkers should have the same.
In the interim, what can we do? Well, Farm Advisors—and most farms have access to them—may be one source of help. Another is an approach to the Rural Support Trust (0800 787 254) which is set up explicitly to look after those working in the retail sector. Sadly, the survey indicated that less than a quarter of respondents had used this service. It’s there, please use it. I encourage each of you to collaborate with the relevant authorities to pave the way for substantial reform. Together, let’s ensure that no contract milker feels isolated or vulnerable again. The time for change is now. If you are affected by this issue and would like to read the survey in full, feel free to contact my office, Kuriger.Inglewood@Parliament.govt.nz, and I’ll send you a copy.
Ngā Roto: a sacred reflection
By Karla Rose, Zion Church
Lake Ngā Roto is tapu (sacred) to our local mana whenua and is cherished by the wider community, and it’s not hard to see why.
Historically Ngā Roto provided settlers with seasonal opportunities to fish and was surrounded by multiple pā, all of whom would have utilised the resources its waters provided. Today, Ngā Roto remains a treasured recreation space utilised by rowers and sailors for water sports, used seasonally for duck hunting. It boasts a beautiful track, one of my personal favourites, where walkers, runners, and cyclists can safely exercise, with children and happy pooches in tow.
Unfortunately, despite ongoing care, water quality remains a serious concern. Swimming, fishing, or allowing pets to drink from the lake can pose serious health risks, and at times has even resulted in track closures. Waipā District Council openly acknowledges that the issues facing Ngā Roto are long-standing, intergenerational, and complex.
That is the thing about water. Once contaminated, its effects spread far beyond the source, impacting the health and wellbeing of the entire community as well as the environment immediately surrounding it.
Water holds deep significance within the Christian faith and is used not only as a visual representation of our freedom from sin but also as an acknowledgement of Jesus as our Lord and saviour. The prophet Isaiah (Isaiah 58:11) points to Jesus when he shares prophetically about springs of water, and waters that do not fail, while in John 4:14 Jesus promises to give us a personal spring
of water, himself.
Just as unhealthy water causes lasting harm, healthy water brings lasting healing. It quenches thirst, cleanses, and gives life.
I believe our lives mirror the life of Ngā Roto; as with the lake, we have been set apart as sacred by a God who loves us, but in the same way, the impact of the world we live in can leave us worn down.
For example, the words of others, even when they mean well, like an algal bloom, may bring harmful reactions to the surface. Sometimes, we carry burdens that were manageable when small but have since grown beyond what we can bear. Like an invasive species overtaking a lake, these things crowd out the life we were meant to live.
When we are not treated with love and respect, we can be left with a mess that we may struggle to clean up on our own.
Just as the council works to restore Ngā Roto, we too can find some relief in friends, family, community, and professional services. Ultimately, we need more than surface-level solutions. We need a source of living water.
Ngā Roto will continue to be a beautiful sacred space, but perhaps now is the time for us as a community to support its guardians, care for its waters, and become sources of living water ourselves. As we work to heal the lake, may we also reflect on what needs healing within us and find renewal through the one who gives us water that never runs dry.
ON SHAKY GROUND
The day the earth roared
By Janine Krippner
What was the world’s most powerful earthquake like? In a word: devastating.
On May 22, 1960 the Earth ruptured in southern Chile. The rupture raced along the fault at a velocity of 3.5 kilometers per second, extending across about 1000 kilometres. The Valdivia Earthquake, or the Great Chilean Earthquake, registered magnitude 9.5 — the largest ever recorded.
The rupture occurred along the boundary between the Nazca and the South American tectonic plates, just offshore from Chile, and on the far side of the Pacific Ocean from us. I would hope that many of you at this point are wondering: was there a tsunami?
The answer is yes — a massive one.
people died. Waves reached over six metres in some locations.
Back in Chile, the devastation was catastrophic. Over 58,000 homes were destroyed, displacing about two million people. At least 1655 lives were lost — but as with many major disasters, the true number remains uncertain.
In Aotearoa, tsunami waves were also detected, triggering widespread evacuations. Observations came from over 120 locations, including the west coast. Run-up heights reached about 4m in Nelson and 3.5m in Gisborne and the Chatham Islands.
• Kuriger.Teawamutu@parliament.govt.nz King Country Virtual Office 021 815 017 Kuriger.Kingcountry@parliament.govt.nz
The earthquake triggered a tsunami that surged across the Pacific Ocean, well before the days of our modern Pacific-wide tsunami warning system. It took about 15 hours to reach Hawai’i, plenty of time for a modern warning to be issued and life-saving actions to be taken. Thankfully in 1960 there was a warning, but warnings only work if people take action.
The first waves that hit Hilo around midnight were about 1-2 m high. Then, at 1:04 am the largest waves arrived, reaching 4.3m. A tsunami wave is not a normal wave, it is far more dangerous. Tsunamis move immense volumes of water with relentless force, surging water up and across the land across much greater timespans.
A total of 61 people were killed in Hawai’i and 43 were injured.
On the other side of the Pacific, in Japan, the tsunami struck about 22 hours after the quake, having travelled over 16,000 kilometres. Despite warnings, around 122
The impact was described by the late David Johnston and colleagues as “considerable minor damage” to homes, boats, shops, and coastal infrastructure. At the time there were calls for improved warnings and public awareness about tsunamis. Today, we’re lucky to have access to a wealth of information at our fingertips. But we must engage with it.
There will be more large tsunamis. While we now have improved warnings and education, we also have far more to lose. In 1960, New Zealand’s population was around 2.4 million. Today, it’s more than double that, and many more people live, work, and play along our vulnerable coastlines.
The 1960 earthquake and tsunami were devastating. The words we use to describe the next major tsunami will depend on the actions we take now—as individuals, scientists, governments, and communities. Even in the face of the Earth’s most powerful forces, we are not powerless.
Refund call splits council
By Mary Anne Gill
A surprise $2.5 million surplus sparked a stoush among Waikato regional councillors last week resulting in chair Pamela Storey using her casting vote to block a proposal to return the funds to ratepayers.
The debate, which unfolded at a council meeting last week, saw seven councillors — including Waipā-King Country representative Clyde Graf — argue that the surplus should be returned to the public.
Graf said the refund, while modest, could help struggling households.
“Our group knows that times are tough for many people, and we think that the $2.5 million rates reduction would have helped ratepayers put food on the table.”
Finance committee chair Chris Hughes echoed the sentiment, saying he was disappointed the council would not align with central government guidance to keep rates increases at or below inflation.
Opposing councillors, including Graf’s fellow Waipā-King Country representative Stu
Kneebone, warned that returning the surplus now would lead to higher rates in the future. Chair Pamela Storey agreed, casting the deciding vote to retain the surplus in council reserves.
“While returning the surplus might sound appealing in the short term, it would create a gap in our finances for future years,” Storey said.
“My decision was about protecting our region’s long-term stability, rather than offering a small, shortterm refund that could cause bigger problems down the track.”
Storey said the average ratepayer would have received approximately $1.09 per $100,000 of capital property value — equating to $10.90 for a $1 million home.
She also noted that using reserves now would leave the council less prepared for emergencies such as cyclones or biosecurity threats.
Graf said the council had no right to keep what was not their money.
“If a bank overcharges for fees it is required by law to return the customer’s money – and we should too,” he said.
“Unfortunately, this
opportunity has been denied by the chair’s casting vote.”
Ratepayers would not get a refund as such, but the average rates’ increase for 2025-26 would have been four per cent rather than the 5.7 per cent in the Annual Plan.
It is the second time this year Storey has used her casting vote on the same issue arguing the decision should be part of public consultation.
The two submitters who fed back agreed with retaining the surplus.
“It’s worth noting that the regional council has never returned a surplus before, and for good reason. We have worked hard to keep rates increases as low as possible, even with rising costs and changes in government funding.”
Those in favour of returning the surplus were: Warren Maher, Ben DunbarSmith, Chris Hughes, Mich’eal Downard, Clyde Graf, Robbie Cookson and Kataraina Hodge.
Those against were: Bruce Clarkson, Angela Strange, Jennifer Nickel, Stu Kneebone, Tipa Mahuta, Noel Smith, and Pamela Storey.
Sheryn tells her story
A speech describing society’s role in domestic abuse won second prize in a speech competition in Rotorua earlier this month.
Cambridge Toastmaster Club president Sheryn Dean presented ‘Culture of Complicity’ at the Toastmaster District 112 Conference.
Members from 130 North Island clubs competed at club, area, then division levels to select eight finalists.
Dean joined the Cambridge Toastmasters Club in 2021 with the goal of being able to speak about domestic abuse – specifically psychological abuse in the middle class.
“Domestic abuse resources focus on women who are physically attacked,
but psychological abuse is also devastating, and unfortunately, extremely common. It is really confusing because there is not something specifically violent. But it’s like the proverbial water on the rock, and eventually it can break even the strongest of people.”
Her speech focused on the lack of support and understanding she experienced from her peers.
“I know the people I reached out to were good people. But with the benefit of hindsight, their reactions were detrimental to me and my situation.”
Dean concluded her place-getting speech with advice to listen to anyone who is confused about their
relationship.
“Encourage them to set boundaries, value themselves, seek professional help. Listen and don’t project your own experiences. Whatever you do, don’t infer it is their fault, or that it is something they should put up with. The abuser is probably already telling them that.”
Clyde Graf - for Pamela Storey – casting vote Stu Kneebone - against
Sheryn Dean
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George and a shock demise
By Meghan Hawkes
George Prince Amor was of a decidedly artistic temperament, and dearly loved his canvas and brushes, his paintings being much admired.
The 47-year-old from Te Awamutu was by trade a painter, paperhanger and decorator and a conscientious and capable workman. George was also an enthusiastic resident, being a lieutenant in the Te Awamutu Volunteer Fire Brigade, an official of the Te Awamutu Defence Rifle Club and a member of the Te Awamutu Chamber of Commerce.
He was a keen supporter of the Boy Scouts movement. In his earlier days he took an active interest in athletics and still encouraged any healthy recreation. He was an official of the Te Awamutu Swimming Club and also the Philharmonic Society. He played a prominent part in musical affairs, being himself a violinist of no mean ability.
So it was a surprise, when in the early hours of May 29, 1914 George began complaining of pains around his heart. Several hours earlier he had taken a spirited interest in a meeting of the Defence Rifle Club. As the pain became more acute, a doctor was summoned,
but apart from occasional attacks of pain, George was quite cheerful throughout the day. About 3.30pm, when he was sitting up in bed talking with his wife, he suddenly swooned and fell back. A doctor was again immediately sent for but on his arrival five minutes later it was found that George had died.
When the news of his death was made known it was met with disbelief. The greatest sympathy was felt for Mary, his wife, and their five children, in their extremely sudden bereavement.
George was born at Doyleston, Christchurch, educated at Leeston, and served a six year painting apprenticeship at Rangiora. He afterwards went to Greymouth where he was in a partnership for 18 months. George then followed his trade in Wellington, Petone, Shannon, Palmerston North, Hastings and Dannevirke, where in 1899, he married Mary Hagenson. A newspaper report of this “wedding of especial interest” said “on leaving the church the newlywed couple was treated to the usual quantity of rice and old boots.”
In 1904 the Amors moved to Feilding where
AGE OF REASON
George took over a painting business. He employed 12 people and carried a large stock of imported paper hangings, paints, colours, oils, picture framing and other decorative materials. Outside of business he was a member of the Freemasons, and rowing and athletic club. He came to Te Awamutu in 1911, quickly becoming a worthy and respected citizen. At his funeral members of the Te Awamutu Defence Rifle Club acted as pallbearers, the coffin being followed by a large number of mourners as it left the Amor residence in Arawata Street. A guard of honour was formed by the Boy Scouts. At Te Awamutu’s St John’s church Reverend Clarke referred to the uncertainty of life saying George had been a useful member of society suddenly taken while apparently in his usual health.
The graveside service was sad and impressive; many wreaths having been sent by the numerous organisations that the lively George had once been connected with.
Time to study the form
By Peter Carr
Sleepy Hollow is slowly awakening to the thunderous interest of the upcoming triennial local body elections. Or is it (again) a quiet whisper that drifts by in October? Either way, once again, we are to be besieged with promises, self-congratulations and adulation from the worthies as to their governance prowess over the past three years. Or, even worse, promises by newly minted wannabies of sweeping improvements that collectively would stretch the budget (and rates) to dizzying heights.
So, dear voters, pause - and take stock of what is being placed before you - pondering as to how about a third of you will bother to tick the boxes presented.
Firstly, why do only a third care to take any form of real interest at the ballot box? Well, this year, a proposed rates increase of over 15 per cent should be sufficient to make your eyes water enough to pick up your pens. How does this staggering increase appear beside other, nearby, councils with increases less than one third of that amount?
Couple all this with the fact that, currently, three long-standing and well respected elected councillors have announced their aspirations. (One) a highly successful and hard-working Deputy Mayor to dally at the regional council table while (two) others have thrown their hats into the ring for a tilt at the mayoral chair, vehicle and financial emolument that accompanies the mayoral chains.
Something is amiss at Waipā DC. But before taking sides please remember this is a democracy. Waipā has not been beset with a hard-hitting first term knock-them-into-shape mayor as sits in the big city to the north. Nor
has it had a one term wonder, as at the bottom of the island, where attendance after hours at hostelries was publicly evident. That mayor has thrown in the towel to permit a long standing ex-minister of the crown to be gifted the role. No - this current growth in mayoral Waipa interests smacks of something amiss that needs a public airing.
All this at the start of a clear initiative by a new council chief executive charged with driving the management forward with a new Long Term Plan totally devoid of preparation for the future placing of another river crossing. Clearly, in longevity terms, the arrival of this key piece of infrastructure is light years away but planning should be clearly identified in Long Term ideals at least as to the purchase of required land for access and egress.
And is it in the best interest of the overall well-being of the district to have three well-meaning aspirants splitting the voteespecially with a pitiful voter turnout that has, sadly, become the norm?
My plea to Waipā voters is to study the form. Work out where sensibility and experience will come together in our fine district. And vote accordingly. But before doing so, listen to what the aspirants have to say. Challenge them in a professional manner where respect and commonsense can prevail.
The Chamber of Commerce has arranged an early September Town Hall election presentation by those standing to state their case. Be there, listen, question and seek more clarity that is well overdue.
Zion church loses leader
By Chris Gardner
Te Awamutu News person of the year Phil Strong has preached his last sermon as senior leader of Zion People church.
Strong’s decade in ministry at the church in Racecourse Road and Churchill Street was celebrated with a meal on Sunday.
Strong said he had resigned after coming to the realisation that “the Lord leads us in and out of seasons”.
“I am confident He has said to me that I have a new assignment, so I’m watchful and waiting,” he said.
“I guess I see this, as with many areas of my life, as an opportunity for testifying to God’s goodness and providence. As a committed contributor to the community, I am glad to have touched many areas of the region with the mission of the church.”
The News named Strong person of the year after his church partnered with Habitat for Humanity central region chief executive Nic Greene to lead a $10 million affordable housing project on the church’s former Racecourse Road site.
Greene described Strong as a man with infinite energy and a clear passion for his community.
“Working with him on the rejuvenation of the old church site has been a great experience, while we are all frustrated by the time it takes to get these things over the line and the impact of a changing economic climate his commitment to the long-term goal of affordable housing resonates with that of Habitats and inspires us all to keep going.”
Te Awamutu Business Chamber chief executive Shane Walsh, who worked with Strong on the town’s Christmas treey paining initiative, described Strong’s departure as “a bit sad”.
“He was a pleasure to work with,” Walsh said. “We hope that initiative will continue with the church.”
As chair of the Waipā Christian School board of proprietors, Strong plans to continue to be involved in finding space to add secondary schooling for pupils.
He is the author of Becoming Money Wise and How to Smash Your Mortgage.
Strong said he and his wife Kathy, who works as a university pastoral care worker, hoped to remain living and working in the Waipa district.
Meanwhile , development is underway on Habitat for Humanity’s Palmer Street development in Te Awamutu.
Over a time frame of about 10 years, seven two-storey blocks, containing a total of 46 one
and two bedroom units, are planned to be constructed in stages.
Development on Phase One began this week and will see one new block of six units completed by mid-2026.
Habitat Central Region Chief Executive Nic Greene says the development will provide new homes for public housing tenants aged 60 and over.
In Te Awamutu, Habitat Central Region, a Community Housing Provider, manages 36 pensioner housing units as well as the Freeman Court independent living facility on neighbouring Roche Street. It also runs a meal delivery service offering affordable, freshly cooked meals for Te Awamutu residents, and operates Alma Brotherhood Court, a retirement village in Kihikihi.
Gastro issue remains a mystery
By Mary Anne Gill
Mystery still surrounds the cause of a gastroenteritis outbreak at the Waipā Business Awards despite the caterer issuing a public apology this week.
Public health officials from Te Whatu Ora Health New Zealand, Ministry of Primary Industries and Waipā District Council have been investigating since 100 people – about a quarter of those present - experienced gastro symptoms following the awards at Mystery Creek earlier this month.
Waikato medical officer of health Geoff Cramp said two bacterial pathogens had been identified but no definitive source of the illness has been linked to the outbreak. It was foodborne, consistent with the symptoms reported, including diarrhoea and abdominal discomfort.
“It would not be appropriate to speculate on the specific source or method of transmission at this stage,” he said.
Foodborne illnesses can result from consuming contaminated food or beverages and may occur at any point in the food production and handling process. According to the World Health Organization, contamination can stem from polluted water, soil, or air, as well as improper food storage or processing.
The caterer was Cambridge Raceway’s caterer Off the Track. Chief executive Dave Branch said his team cared deeply about their work.
“This isn’t the standard we hold ourselves to, and we’ve taken this seriously from the outset. We’re committed to learning from this, taking responsibility where it’s due, and doing everything we can to move forward with integrity.”
Zion People senior leader Phil Strong and his wife Kathy, centre, are blessed by Tom Watson as they leave the church after 10 years.
Te Awamutu
AUTO DIRECTORY
Where the council saves
By Mary Anne Gill
A Waipā district councillor has revealed the extent of the council’s line-by-line budget savings as part of the Long Term Plan consultation, but residents may struggle to find the details.
The savings, which affect hundreds of individual work plans, are not included in the glossy consultation brochures delivered to households.
They are under a “See more” section on the council’s Have Your Say website.
Council staff conducted a line-by-line review of spending, resulting in an average rates increase of 5.9 per cent over the next 10 years.
The steepest hike – 15.5 per cent - is expected in the upcoming financial year, before tapering off to as low as 2.3 per cent in later years.
water treatment and supply, and wastewater. They include:
• Signage: Heritage, wayfinding, and walkway signs will not be replaced.
• Leamington Domain Reserve: Implementation of the concept plan has been slashed by 80 per cent.
• Parks and Recreation: Cuts affect Lake Rotopiko, sports fields (47 per cent reduction), neighbourhood and amenity reserves, and conservation areas. Fewer volunteer projects will proceed due to reduced onsite management.
• Cancelled Projects: The Sports Clubs Lease Model review, the Pirongia to Te Awamutu cycleway, and the Pioneer Walkway will not go ahead.
• Land Acquisition: Plans to purchase land at Horahora Domain have been shelved, halting any expansion of the reserve.
Keeping powered up
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Have your battery tested regularly by a professional, especially before long trips or if you notice slow starts at least once a year. With proper care, your car battery can last longer and perform better, ensuring your vehicle stays roadready across our varied landscapes and temperatures.
At last week’s Cambridge Community Board meeting, member Andrew Myers raised concerns about the visibility of these savings.
“We’re asking our ratepayers to make sacrifices — maybe switching from Sanitarium to Pam’s products to save 17 per cent,” he said.
“I’d like to see examples where the council has said ‘we’ve got to cut our cloth to suit’, not just drawing lines through things. Making the tough calls on expenditure.”
Finance committee chair Mike Montgomerie, also a member of the board said there was no culture of overspending at the council or around the council table.
He said there were reductions across 10 activity management plans in areas such as cemeteries, heritage, parks, property, public toilets, libraries, transportation, stormwater,
Montgomerie said the budgeting process began with staff proposals, which were then scrutinised line by line.
Myers said he received “marketing” emails from the council every single day and he and the public were largely unaware of the extent of the savings.
“I didn’t understand that and I sure as hell know that the ratepayer doesn’t know you’re going to those lengths to do that.
“I think the community will respect that and we should hear a lot more about it that you are really digging in and doing the mahi,” he said.
Montgomerie later told The News he was impressed by the board’s engagement and questions.
“I thought the Cambridge Community Board was flying,” he said.
“That is exactly how a community board should be functioning I reckon.”
• Read more cambridgenews.nz
Customers get power discounts
Waipā Networks customers are receiving the first of two discounts for 2025 off their power bill.
An estimated total of $2.8 million - an average of about $97.65 per customer - is being given back to customers across the network.
Waipā Networks Trust chairperson Sarah Matthews says profits are retained in the community via these discounts, rather than going to external shareholders.
Since customer discounts began in 2001, Waipā Networks has distributed more than $100 million back to customers connected to its network.
Waipā Networks Chief Executive Sean Horgan said as an organisation owned by the Waipā Networks Trust on behalf of customers, “we’re in a unique position
where we can give back to the community that owns us”.
“The reason our line charges have been so low is because our network is a low-cost network driven by a simple 11kV structure.
“While this structure has served us well in the past, regional growth and increasing demands for electricity require us to invest and upgrade our network, which incurs a cost.”
“We’re about to commission our new Hautapu substation that will bring 33kV to our network, creating more capacity for our customers to enjoy a more reliable and resilient electricity connection.”
Horgan said there are also plans underway to upgrade the network in Te Awamutu.
An aerial view of the new Hautapu substation.
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Where will they go?
Greyhound Racing NZ has applied for a judicial review of the Government plan to ban the sport. Jesse Wood talks to an advocate of the sport about her concerns if the ban goes ahead.
Cambridge-based greyhound advocate Jenny Bartlett is concerned about where more than 2900 dogs will go once the industry is out of the picture in New Zealand.
Racing minister Winston Peters announced the end of greyhound racing in December. A date of July 2026 was set to give time to rehome the dogs.
Former Waikato Greyhound Racing president Bartlett said that’s not possible and after meetings with Greyhound Racing New Zealand, the Government appointed Ministerial Advisory Committee (MAC) have come to the same conclusion.
“When the ban was announced, there was no warning of it. We were absolutely blindsided,” she said. “There were trainers that would have had a bitch having a season that they’d impregnated just prior because they had no idea this was coming.
“We’ve got these racing dogs out there, the brood bitches, the sires and we’ve got puppies. So, 2900 is just a ballpark figure.”
MAC have realised rehoming the total dog population by July 31, 2026, is not possible and there will need to be a rehoming effort of 24-30 months post closure.
“It really worries me as to how we are going to rehome 2900 plus greyhounds.
Contact Tharaen
How do we do it? Don’t think that the SPCA are going to do it,” Bartlett said.
“I’ve yet to see one politician put their hands up and say we’ll take a dog. I’ve yet to see one anti-greyhound racing protestor put their hand up and say we’ll take a dog.
Greyhound racing contributes $133 million dollars annually to the New Zealand economy and $13 million to the Waikato economy. Greyhound Racing New Zealand spends more than $8.5 million annually on rehoming.
The total number of greyhound adoptions since the announcement, up to and including April, stands at 526. The average adoption rate for the first nine months is about 58 per month.
At this point of the season, adoptions are up 16.5 per cent on last year’s record.
“It’s a complicated process to rehome and I believe that the trainers and the owners want to ensure that this process is to continue,” Bartlett said.
“The whole rehoming side of it is all for the dog. It’s not whether the dog’s right for you. It’s if you’re right for that dog. It takes time to get that right.
“Once a dog has retired from racing, they’re not rescued because they haven’t been tied to a tree, the trainer is required to get that dog desexed, get a dental report done and a health check. That is all funded by Greyhound Racing New Zealand.”
The dog will then go on the Great Mates list before it retires.
“The Great Mates kennel is the first stop for that dog starting its new journey into becoming a pet,” Bartlett said. “Great Mates assess that dog. They will say, she’s a bit of a shy little girl or she’s not cat trainable.
“They’ll take them for walks in town and assess them because a lot of these dogs have
lived rurally. They don’t know a truck; they don’t know a wheelie bin.”
The next stop is a rehoming agency. The main organisations are May Hounds, Nightrave, Kiwikiwi Hounds and Gap.
“May Hounds might say, we think we’ve got a home for her, we would like her.
“Then more work is done with that dog to expose it to becoming a pet. May Hounds put their dogs into a foster home immediately, so none of them are in a kennel.
“They might be there for two weeks, six weeks, six months. It doesn’t matter –they’re in a home, learning all about it. Then someone might say, ‘I want that dog’, but you’re not just going to get her.”
The person wanting to adopt must fill out an application form detailing their lifestyle, who is the dog for, what they can give the dog and where the dog will sleep.
“No greyhound going through a rehoming process is to sleep outside at night,” Bartlett said.
“Then May Hounds will send someone to do a home check, to meet them, meet other family members, look at fencing, to look at the setup and see if it’s going to work. Then they can meet the dog.
“This process takes time. You’re not going to take 2900 dogs and rehome them in six months.”
Rehabilitation to rehome, RTR dogs, is another part of the process.
“The dog is cared for and seen by top New Zealand vets. Once all clear, they enter the rehoming process.
“They all make the most amazing pets, they’ve got a great nature, but you have to get the right home for each dog.
“Logistically, you tell me how? I’d like to say to Winston, will you tell me how we’re going to do it?”
Jenny Bartlett wants to know how they will rehome 2900 plus greyhounds.
Photo: Jesse Wood
NZ Made Bed SALE
Trio prepare for BMX worlds
By Jesse Wood
Three Te Awamutu BMX Club members are on their way to BMX Racing World Championships in Copenhagen, Denmark in July.
The annual event will take place at the Ved Slusen track in Amager from July 28-31.
About 3500 riders are set to compete across the challenge, masters and championship divisions.
Youngster Tate Burdon and the experienced Paul Luttrell are guaranteed to compete, while Brooke Penny has already left for Europe to secure her chance of qualification.
The trio are highly placed in the New Zealand ranks.
“I have to race the first four rounds of the BMX Racing World Cups in Sarrians, France and Papendal, The Netherlands
to show that I am capable of competing at this level,” 20-year-old elite women’s rider Penny said.
“I will then be notified sometime after the last qualification race, on June 22, if I have been selected.
“Being chosen to represent my country on the world stage is something I have been very fortunate to accomplish for the last two world championships – 2023 in Glasgow, Scotland and 2024 in Rockhill, South Caroline, United States. However, each time is as amazing as the first.
“There is something very special about wearing the silver fern to represent your country on the other side of the world.”
Luttrell is no stranger to Copenhagen, having raced there at the 2011 world championships.
He will ride in the 50 plus
cruiser male category.
“We also lived in Copenhagen from 2017-2022, so it will be a homecoming of sorts. This will be my 11th and final world champs,” Luttrell said.
“It’s always been a proud occasion to wear the New Zealand shirt on the world stage. To represent Te Awamutu with Tate and Brooke will definitely enhance that.”
Luttrell is also one of the Te Awamutu BMX trainers, guiding the youngsters who are attending worlds.
Burdon, 11, is one of those athletes.
His mum Anne Burdon said he loves taking on the jumps and pushing himself to master the hard parts of each track.
This is his second world championships after competing in Rockhill last year. He competed in two classes – the 10-year-old boys 20-inch and 8-12 years cruiser 24-inch.
After finishing 58th out of 108 riders, he thought it was best to stick to the 20-inch class this time.
“There’s not a huge contingent going from New Zealand, but in Tate’s age group, there’s three kids from the top eight going,” Anne said.
“At the moment on his two bikes, Tate is number three in New Zealand on both.”
Burdon is a Year 7 student at Korakonui School and Anne said they’ve been very supportive of his BMX racing.
“Later in the year he will represent Korakonui when he attends the AIMS Games in Tauranga. That will be competing in BMX as well.
“Then he’s got sports camp at Totara Springs. He’s got a lot of sport going on.”
Burdon was also a reserve for the New Zealand Mighty 11s at Lake Macquarie, New South Wales last weekend.
The Mighty 11s are an invitational team that
compete against Australia. The events were rounds three and four of the AusCycling National Series.
Burdon raced in the Mighty 11s memorial races and also placed third in the 11-year-old boys 20-inch class, facing the best riders from across Australia.
“Preparing for an event such as worlds takes a big commitment. Tate is training hard – four or five
mornings a week, most afternoons whether it’s on the track, swimming or other cardio, plus weekend training for the worlds riders or riding at an event,” Anne said.
“We leave on July 11 because Tate would like to ride the track before UCI, the governing body for worlds, officially closes the track a week before the event to set up.
“Then on July 19 and 20 there’s a European championship race in Angelholm, Sweden. Tate will be racing at that.”
The Cornerstone Sport Achievement Trust had provided help to meet the costs.
Next year will be a big one for the Te Awamutu club as it hosts the 2026 BMX National Championships in March.
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Paul Luttrell (left), Brooke Penny and Tate Burdon are preparing to compete at the BMX world championships in Copenhagen.
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Te Awamutu Sports lose away
By Jesse Wood
Hautapu Sports posted a big 62-26 win against Fraser Tech in Waikato premier rugby on Saturday, while Te Awamutu Sports fell 17-10 to Morrinsville.
The 10 tries to four drubbing took place in front of the Hautapu faithful on club day at Cambridge Memorial Park.
Hautapu had a star-studded line-up including Fiji international Manasa Mataele, four Waikato representatives and two club centurions – David Morris and Jason Thomasen.
Te Awamutu’s match was away at Campbell Park. Many of their premier players were in Scotland competing at the Melrose Sevens.
Young debutant fullback Jaoquin Burke,
fresh off a touch gold medal in the Asia Pacific Youth Cup, stepped up to slot a penalty and conversion.
But Morrinsville remained in control, three tries to one. Flanker Dylan Jeffries was the Te Awamutu try scorer.
Hautapu B fell short 35-33 against Fraser Tech B, while Te Awamutu’s development side lost 34-24 to Morrinsville B.
Pirongia thumped Kereone 70-5 in Division 1A, while Leamington pipped Taupiri 22-20.
Donning pink ladies day jerseys, Ōhaupō were beaten 33-24 at home by the men from under the Kaimai ranges, Hinuera.
All three Waipā Division 1B teams registered wins.
Pirongia B defeated Kereone B 33-5, Leamington demolished Taupiri B 55-15
and Ōhaupō B got their third victory of the season, 34-22 against Hinuera B.
Hautapu got their second win in the women’s premiership, 22-15 against University.
Kihikihi lost 48-10 against Ōtorohanga and are still to pick up a victory.
June 7 will see another Waipā women’s premiership battle at Kihikihi Domain –Kihikihi v Hautapu – at 1pm.
Women’s championship division team Pirongia lost 45-30 in a fairly close encounter with Hamilton Marist.
Leamington, Hautapu and Pirongia all had losses in the under-21 competition and Te Awamutu Sports had a bye week.
Thames Valley United defeated the Leamington colts 41-19, Hautapu under-21 were beaten 27-19 by Hamilton Marist and
Hinuera topped Pirongia 33-15 at Wealleans Park.
The Kio Kio United Cattle Dogs hosted Pukekohe under-85kg on Saturday and lost 67-0.
Pukekohe scored 11 unanswered tries in the combined Counties Manukau-Waikato under-85kg competition match at Maihihi. Kio Kio head into Hamilton this Saturday to face Hamilton Marist Bulldogs at 1pm.
All other teams get a break for King’s Birthday weekend.
The Pirongia Mountain men dominated the Leamington Loonies in the presidents, over-35, grade. Pirongia won 34-0 at Pirongia Domain.
Due to several teams fielding low numbers, a new presidents draw will kick in from June 7.
Veteran Te Awamutu Sports first five-eighth Andrew Christie takes on the Morrinsville defence.
Photo: Justin Miezenbeek Pirongia captain Jay Seebeck leads from the front during the 70-5 win over Kereone. Photo: Julie Gibson
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The Rating Information Database records all information required by a local authority for setting and assessing rates on properties within their district. For each rating property this includes its valuation and any categories that belong to that property that are used to charge separate targeted rates.
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TanyaWinter CHIEF EXECUTIVE
WWM are looking for experienced and passionate 2IC Site Managers to join our team.
This is a hands-on Leadership role for a person who has: • A Carpentry or similar qualification
• Experience on Commercial Builds
• A Desire to Learn and Develop • A good attitude and good quality work ethic.
You will be involved with site operations and assist with overseeing the following areas:
• Day-to-Day Running of the Site
• Plan, Coordinate and Oversee Sub-Contractors
• Monitor and Control Project Progress
• Manage Quality Control
• Ensure H&S Requirements are achieved
Starting Rates from $35.00 per hour based on experience, plus a Company vehicle, phone and laptop to deliver excellence.
We specialise in Design and Build Projects. We have undertaken a large range of commercial, industrial, residential and multi-tenant developments. We understand design and we pride ourselves on our customer service. Our goal is to add value at all stages of the project, from budgeting, unique design, cost effective engineering solutions, timely construction, and comprehensive project management.
Email your CV and Cover Letter to: annette.venter@wcml.co.nz
Applicants for this position should
Kihikihi Police House and Temple Cottage Charitable Trust
GEMMELL, David Grant –
AGM
Tuesday 10th June 1.00pm 20 Lyon Street, Kihikihi
Te Awamutu & District Highland Pipe Band Inc AGM
Monday 9th June 2025 7pm
Te Awamutu Sports Club Rooms
420 Albert Park Drive Te Awamutu
Everyone Welcome
This will be followed by light refreshments.
SCOTT, Anthony (Neil) Patrick (Scotty) – Passed suddenly but peacefully on 18th May 2025. Loved son of the late Eric and Relda Scott and brother of Denys (dec). A friend to many whom will be sorely missed. A huge thanks to all the staff at San Michele for the care and compassion shown to Scotty over his final years. As per Scotty’s wishes a private service has been held.
Te Awamutu Funeral Services, FDANZ
Passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by family on Sunday, 25th May 2025. An adored husband to Vida, dearly loved father to his four sons, treasured father-inlaw, and proud ‘Popsie’ to his 11 grandchildren. David will be deeply missed by his brother, sister and extended family. A service to celebrate David’s life will be held at St Andrew's Presbyterian Church, 80 Mutu Street, Te Awamutu on Saturday, 31st May at 11:00am followed by burial at the Te Awamutu Cemetery. All are warmly invited to attend. All communications please to the Gemmell family, PO Box 137, Te Awamutu 3840.
Te Awamutu Funeral Services, FDANZ
Engagements
Annual AGM
2025 AGM of the Rosebank Art Centre Charitable Trust
30th May, 2025, at 12pm Venue; Rosebank Art Centre 137 Churchill St. Te Awamutu
Members, and interested members of the public, are invited to attend
Te Awamutu Rotary Book Fair
Weddings
Births
Anniversaries
Bereavements
In Memoriam etc Call Janine 027 287 0005 or email janine@goodlocal.nz
4th
10am Entry: $4 on arrival Waipa Workingman Club Speaker: Byron Arnold Topic: Growing Truffles in NZ Everybody Welcome More info phone 07 870 3223
Saying goodbye is never easy. Our local, professional, and compassionate team is here 24/7, guiding you with care and respect every step of the way. Call us anytime – we’re here for you. Jordan Goss Funeral Director
