We do care, say councillors
By Chris Gardner
New Waikato regional councillors have hit back at claims they do not care about the environment.
Councillors have faced criticism for seeking an economic impact report on a plan change.
“No farmer wants to be an ‘eco-terrorist’, that is simply counterproductive to their personal enterprise sustainability,” Keith Holmes, the immediate past president of Waikato Federated Farmers, said.
“Nor should any farmer be expected to work and farm at a loss or have their livelihoods taken off them by dumb laws without compensation. Please remember also the enormous amount of farmers’ personal income and time that has already gone into on farm environmental custodianship.”
Holmes pushed for the council to ask the Environment Court for time to commission the economic impact study before ruling on a water quality plan change. According to his calculations Plan Change One would cost the Waikato economy $5 billion.
Holmes was responding to a letter published in The Cambridge News in which Alice Hicks said she had read that four newly elected councillors did not believe farmers should be fencing waterways, mapping contaminant loss or reviewing good management practices to protect and clean up waterways, and to protect collective ground waters for future generations.
Holmes said his role may have changed but the issues society faced remained the same.
“Kaitiaki and kaumatua or guardianship should always look to bigger picture and have a holistic view of what is best for us all,” Holmes said.
“The Plan Change One journey is still before the courts. The councillors are evolving to having a totally holistic overview to ensure that Waikato is prosperous, enabling, exciting and environmentally responsible. We also want to be able afford
what our ratepayers demand – water treatment, roads, hospitals, houses, schools and ‘living affordability’. Simply put, our kaitiaki responsibility is to urgently generate the money in the Waikato region to pay for all these things.”
Another newly elected regional councillor, Liz Stolwyk acknowledged the “genuine frustration and disappointment” expressed by many who care deeply about the state of waterways.
But she noted the volume of plantings and land retired in 2024-25 alone showed that many farmers were stepping up — often quietly, without recognition — to make meaningful change.
Reymer, a Waipā King Country ward councillor and former economics spokesman for Waikato Federated Farmers, said Hicks’ comments that four new councillors did not think farmers should be responsible for the
“We all support best farm practice which make up the terms of supply to most of the producer companies they supply,” Reymer said. “Things like fencing waters ways, nitrogen recording to set limits to restrict nitrogen loss through leaching or runoff are strictly monitored.”
He described farmers as natural environmentalists because their livelihood depended on intergenerational wellbeing of the land and waterways.
“I have every confidence that this council will continue to strive for continued improvement on all key performance indicators around economic, people, water, and soil.”
Society still acting up at 50…
“It's
so well for so long - including most importantly, running our own building,” Miller said. In 1975 a public meeting attracted 45 people and 20 apologies were recorded. Warwick May, who was to become the first society president, Bill Sanders and Barbara McGregor spoke about their vision – and won the support of the audience.
Garry Reymer, left, and Keith Holmes on the day they were sworn in as regional councillors.
Photo: Chris Gardner good stewardship of the land could not be further from the truth.
A fair way to balance books
By Viv Posselt
Harriet Dixon’s first year at the helm of Te Awamutu’s i-Site information centre hasn’t been without its challenges.
Her primary concern since coming on board has been keeping the centre open. When Waipā District Council funding went down the gurgler, another way had to be found to meet operating costs, and in July it was announced that Te Awamutu Business Chamber would take Destination Te Awamutu under its wing in order to secure the i-Site’s viability.
A break-in and theft resulted in the centre closing for two days, and Dixon, the only paid employee, has faced an ongoing struggle to keep up the numbers of volunteers. She has a band of stalwarts aged 14 to late 70s, but more are needed.
“We couldn’t open our doors without the volunteers. We’re the only i-Site left in the Waikato region now… the only one still part of that network,” she told The News last week. “We need $50,000 a year to run the place… $20,000 is the minimum we need to open.”
Dixon applied her experience as Cambridge Community House (CCH) manager for three years with a proactive approach to fundraising.
“I learned a lot about the region’s social service network while at CCH, and I’ve been able to utilise that here, to help link people with what they need. I’ve also learned so much about this town and what it has to offer. It’s an awesome combination,” she said.
One of the first things she did was
introduce a new monthly craft fair in February.
“I had been talking to the board about having a monthly market when I was approached by the Kaipaki Market. I suggested we do something together and we’ve been doing it ever since.”
Proceed from what is now called the Rosetown Monthly Fair go to the Te Awamutu i-Site, and Kaipaki stallholders join crafters in reaping the rewards that come with greater visibility.
“We have about 80 stalls a month… it has been going really well.”Dixon applied the same format to rebranding what used to be the Te Awamutu Annual Craft Market –
Beekeeper joins fight
By Chris Gardner
Mountain View Honey apiarist Lindy Bennett is building traps to catch bee eating yellow legged hornets.
Anger is mounting over the pace at which the Ministry for Primary Industries acted after two male hornets were found in Auckland six months ago.
The alarm bells were heard by the public only in the last two weeks after the first of a series of queens were found building nests.
The nests have all been discovered in Auckland but Bennett is worried for the thousands of bees she keeps in 50 hives across the Waikato and Bay of Plenty regions.
Bennett’s hives produced 1000 kilograms of honey last season and she said the potential spread south was a real concern.
“Hornets could have a big impact on bees, and that would flow on to pollination and honey production.”
turning it into the Rosetown Christmas Craft Fair. The inaugural version of that is coming on November 22, complete with 150 stalls, food trucks, crafts from around the region, refreshments and entertainment.
Dixon said the monthly fairs have been bringing in about half the basic annual operational costs, around $10,000, and she hopes to raise around $10,000 at this month’s event.
“I have ideas around a few other things I want to do,” she added. “This is a fantastic community, and the i-Site is brilliantly positioned. We know it’s a big plus for Te Awamutu … we just need to make sure it stays here.”
Bennett has hives near Mounts Kakepuku, Maunganui, Ruapehu and Pirongia as well as in Waitomo and is installing the traps near her hives.
She creates a grape juice, sugar, and water syrup which is poued into a bottle with a hole cut in the side.
Northland conservationist Brad Windust has warned the country has only “one summer” to resolve the problem
Te Awamutu i-Site general manager Harriet Dixon hopes the upcoming fair will be a winning fundraiser for the centre.
Photo: Viv Posselt
Lindy Bennett is making yellow-legged hornet traps on her Pirongia farm.
Photo: Chris Gardner
Briefs…
Hill leads
Cambridge’s Tony Hill has been appointed national president of the Royal New Zealand Returned and Services’ Association (RNZRSA). His appointment was made at last week’s 109th NZRSA National Council in Wellington. During the year prior, Hill was one of two national NZRSA vicepresidents.
In liquidation
Auckland liquidators
Steven Khov and Kieran Jones have been appointed for Tamahere-based Zane Beckett Construction and are appealing for any creditors to come forward before November 21 to make their claims. Beckett, who is a shareholder and director of several companies - including ZB Homes in Cambridge and Te Awamutu - told the liquidators the company had no assets and was unable to pay its debts as they fell due.
Projects funded
Waikato River Authority has awarded $5.7 million to 26 projects dedicated to protecting and restoring the health and well-being of the Waikato and Waipā Rivers and their catchments. The projects are wide-ranging from erosion control, riparian planting and geothermal ecosystem restoration to Waikato River education programmes for tamariki and a four-day waka journey.
Studs open
Several Waikato studs will open their gates to the public during the first National Thoroughbred Week running from next Thursday (November 20) for five days. A total of 70 venues in Australia and New Zealand will offer access to stables, breeding farms and aftercare facilities for people who have booked. The list includes Cambridge and Trelawney Studs.
We have electric lift off
By Mary Anne Gill
Waipā’s trailblazing role in New Zealand’s aeronautical history entered a new chapter last week with the launch of the country’s first electric aircraft at Hamilton Airport.
Over the coming weeks, look to the skies as Air New Zealand’s Beta Alia CX300 conducts a series of demonstration flights around the district before moving to Wellington next month.
Its distinctive silhouette and the national carrier’s logo make it hard to miss, said Taupō MP and Tourism Minister Louise Upston at the launch event.
Also present were Waikato MP Tim van de Molen, Waipā mayor Mike Pettit, Hamilton city councillor Maria Huata, new Air New Zealand chief executive Nikhil Ravishankar, Hamilton Airport and Civil Aviation Authority chief executives Mark Morgan and Kane Patena and Beta Technologies’ head of global sales Simon Newitt.
The Beta Alia CX300 is a batteryelectric aircraft manufactured by Beta Technologies in Vermont, United States. It accommodates two
crew members and offers 5.6 cubic metres of cargo space, with a flight range of up to 398 kilometres.
Notably, Beta Technologies debuted on the New York Stock Exchange just a day before the New Zealand launch.
The four-month demonstrator
programme at Hamilton, Wellington and Blenheim airports will see Air New Zealand pilots, Andrew Mercer and James Owen, work alongside Beta’s flight operations and engineering team to undertake flights in a range of conditions, flight manoeuvres and routes.
Thanks to its quiet, zero-emission propulsion and conventional takeoff and landing capabilities, the CX300 can easily be accommodated at existing airports. Flights of up to 200 kilometres will be conducted during the programme.
Waipā’s aviation legacy dates back to 1933, when flight training began at the Rukuhia Aerodromenow Hamilton Airport. The region’s light aviation industry flourished as farmers embraced top-dressing aircraft to fertilise hard-to-reach land.
Pioneers like Ossie James, Max Clear, and Ewan Wilson -
alongside the Waikato Aero Club and companies such as Pacific Aerospace - are synonymous with Waipā’s spirit of aviation innovation.
“We can make magic when we work and collaborate together,” said Upston.
She praised Air New Zealand’s agility and forward-thinking approach.
“Sometimes we underestimate what New Zealand can do. This is incredibly significant.”
Ravinshankar said 60 per cent of the country’s regional flights were less than 350 kilometres, making New Zealand the perfect laboratory for next generation airplanes.
Morgan said the airspace around Hamilton Airport was a great place to learn and understand the systems, infrastructure and logistics that would one day support next generation aircraft.
Is Friday the new Wednesday?
By Chris Gardner
Friday could become the new Wednesday at Waipā District Council.
The council switched to holding committee and full council meetings from Tuesdays to Wednesdays in January.
The move came despite concern raised by Good Local Media editor
Roy Pilott.
The publishing company was concerned readers would have to wait eight days for the results of decisions to be published in the Cambridge News and Te Awamutu News.
“When the decision was made, the paper was not on my radar,” Mayor Mike Pettit said.
But the council’s swearing in, and
inaugural council meeting was held on the last Friday of October, and its next meeting is tomorrow.
Pettit said no permanent decision had been made on dates, although he was “pretty open” to a change.
“That will be a decision that will come up,” he said.
“Councillors will make a decision.
I’ve done some asking and, in most cases, most councillors look pretty
flexible.
“That discussion will happen, and I’m sure there’ll be some good discussion around this, but it will be about making the best decisions for Waipa.
“I’m not going in there with a mandate of this or that. As long as it makes sense for good governance decisions. That’s the fundamental for me - that’s the bottom line.”
Funeral Director: Jordan Goss
The Beta Alia CX300 battery-electric aircraft lands at Hamilton Airport.
Photo: Mary Anne Gill
Waikato MP Tim van de Molen seated in Air New Zealand’s Beta Alia CX300 with Air New Zealand chief executive Nikhil Ravishankar.
Photo: Mary Anne Gill
WAIPĀ NETWORKS – POWERED BY PEOPLE, INVESTED IN YOU
Meet Tiaan, Waipā Networks Project Manager and proud Te Awamutu local. He is one of five project managers who plan and deliver electrical upgrade projects across our network. Delivering projects across our network, Tiaan, Manga, Paul, Renier and Bhavish look after the lifecycles of several projects, from scoping, ordering equipment, scheduling outages, and keeping customers informed. They focus on getting work done safely and quickly, choosing solutions that make sense for everyone. The team’s been busy with a series of projects across the network, big and small, from Tamahere to Kāwhia.
The big projects, like our new 33kV substation in Cambridge or planning future network architecture for Te Awamutu, ensure our network keeps up with a fast-growing district, while continuing to provide a reliable and resilient electricity connection for everyone.
OWNED BY YOU, INVESTED FOR YOU
Waipā Networks is 100% customer owned. That means we don’t have external shareholders –our customers are our owners. Every decision we make and every dollar we invest is about creating value for our communities, not paying dividends offshore.
These projects are not just about increasing capacity by building bigger and better things. They are about ensuring that as the Waipā district grows, the benefits flow directly back to you – in fewer outages, quicker restoration, safer infrastructure, and future-ready technology.
Installing stronger poles and smart grid technology are long-term investments with immediate benefits for people’s well-being, while also enabling business growth across the region.
In Cambridge, we’ve been upgrading ageing infrastructure and enabling businesses to expand through a busy works plan that spans across the town from Watkins Road to Vogel Street, not forgetting our recent works on Alpha Street.
The works on Vogel Street include replacing overhead lines with underground cables to enable future development at the rest home, ensuring the community has access to the best facilities as Cambridge continues to grow.
In Te Awamutu, we’re currently upgrading the feeder that supplies Pirongia and Frontier Estate Subdivision on the edge of town. The physical works can be seen along Alexandra Street, but, like most of our projects, the areas
that are impacted and benefit from the works extend much further.
You might see work happening in one place, but an outage in another. Like a spider web, lines run in all different directions until they reach transformers and switching gear. It’s at that point where we can isolate the outage with the aim of switching fewer people off while we complete our work.
WORKING FOR OUR PEOPLE
As locals themselves, our other project managers continue to look at projects with the aim of maximising the benefits to ensure the power stays on now and in the future. Because at Waipā Networks, when we invest in reliability, we’re not just investing in poles, wires, cables and substations – we’re investing in you, our customer-owners.
Being customer-owned means there are no outside shareholders to satisfy. The value of these investments comes straight back to the people of Waipā through a stronger, more reliable network today, and a future-proofed system for tomorrow.
Fire crews in the medals
By Jesse Wood
Sixteen medals were claimed by Waipā at the Firefighter Challenge World Championship 2025 in Farmers Branch, Texas last month – almost half of the New Zealand tally.
Te Awamutu Volunteer Fire Brigade members Kelly Bennetto, Dave Shaw, Scott Stapleton and Rob Willey made the journey alongside Pirongia Volunteer Fire Brigade’s Jodi Reymer.
Stapleton was the only first-time competitor from the Hard Ducks Combat Challenge team.
Four hundred people from 20 countries took part in the six-day event, four days qualifying and two days of finals, at Dallas College Brookhaven Campus.
The event is designed to showcase the strength and readiness of the fire service, inspire the next generation of firefighters and promote the physical, mental, cardiac and respiratory benefits that result from routine exercising, good nutritional habits and job-based training processes.
“It was originally designed by an American doctor as a pre-entry test but then they found that firefighters get quite competitive and it turned into a competition,” Shaw said.
New Zealand placed third on the medal table for most medals with 34 across individual, tandem and team categories.
Shaw and Reymer were among the individual medallists, while the others received team medals.
It was Shaw’s third time attending and he said it’s a great way to keep fit.
“You also meet a lot of cool people from all sorts of different countries that you wouldn’t normally meet,” Shaw said.
“I got second in the 55-59 male category. Then two more silvers and three bronzes in the team categories. Rob got two third places in the teams and Kelly got a third in the teams.
Deemed by ESPN as “the toughest two minutes in sports”, the series has been in action for more than 30 years.
Reymer said this year’s course was much more taxing than usual.
“This year a new tower and an uphill, grippy surface making an extra heavy hose drag, meant that times were much slower.
“That together with some health issues tested me to my max. It was a great opportunity for me to fall back on my
training and prove how much hard work can pay off.”
Reymer said she was incredibly happy to win gold in the individual category for her age at her third event and be the third fastest woman overall.
Less than one second separated the top three.
She also collected silver in the female pairs with Nicole Paulin, silver in a department team with Claire Jones, Paulin, Nikita Watt and Nikki Butler, a fourth place finish for CoEd pair with Aidan Grant and a gold medal for international team with women from Ukraine, Poland and Germany.
New Waipā citizens certified
By Jesse Wood
Mike Pettit kept his teaching skills sharpened as he welcomed 100 new New Zealand citizens last Friday at the Te Awamutu Presbyterian Centre.
New citizens came from Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, Czech Republic, England, Fiji, Germany, India, Italy, Kenya, Malawi, Netherlands, Northern Ireland, Philippines, Republic of Ireland, Republic of Korea, Saudi Arabia, Scotland, Singapore, South Africa, Sweden, USA, Wales, Zambia and Zimbabwe.
Many had lived in the Waipā district for several years and Pettit took note that he recognised some of them.
“You’re already part of our Waipā whānau or family and today marks the next step. It’s a proud moment for us all,” he said.
“Each of you makes our district a stronger and a more liveable place. It makes it more connected.
"You help make our towns, schools, workplaces and neighbourhoods, better places to live - and for that, I thank you.”
The new mayor was enthusiastic to be part of his first citizenship ceremony.
“As someone who is new to the role of mayor, I know a little bit about starting something important. Feeling excitement and wanting to be the best that you can be,” Pettit said.
Groups of about 10 read their oaths and affirmations in unison as friends and family members watched on.
Originally from South Africa, Cambridge resident Lindsay Swanepoel and her family - husband JeanJacques and daughters Mila and Leah Swanepoel - were among those welcomed.
“We have been in New Zealand for six years and 5 days.
Waipā has become home, we have made friends that became family and feel part of our community,” Lindsay said
“Waipā is the best of both worlds, beautiful views and hills with the ocean just a short drive away.”
The Hard Ducks Combat Challenge team – Jodi Reymer (from left), Dave Shaw, Kelly Bennetto, Rob Willey and Scott Stapleton. Photo: Jeffery Jones
Te Hōpua Whakahauora – the new Taranaki Cancer Centre - was officially opened at Taranaki Base Hospital by Minister of Health Simeon Brown, marking a major milestone for cancer care in our region
Good News – Health Services in the regions
by Barbara Kuriger, MP for Taranaki-King Country
The New Zealand government’s recent changes to earthquake-prone building rules are a refreshingly practical, common-sense step in the right direction. In the past, building owners everywhere—no matter how risky their area actually was—had to meet tough, expensive upgrade standards. This put real financial stress on property owners, especially in low-risk places, and took attention and resources away from buildings that really needed work most.
The updated rules now focus on real, proven risks to public safety. Only buildings located in medium or high earthquake zones, or those that could genuinely endanger people, will be identified as earthquake-prone. For instance, buildings with unreinforced brick walls facing busy streets will still be flagged because they’re especially hazardous during earthquakes. Conversely, large concrete buildings will undergo more targeted inspections, so owners aren’t required to pay for expensive checks unless there’s clear justification.
The definition of “priority buildings” is also smarter now, focusing on things like masonry that could fall and hurt people or block emergency response. Plus, buildings like hospitals and fire stations won’t be rushed to upgrade if it risks disrupting their essential work—they’ll have more time to make plans that work for everyone. Councils can also now give owners up to 15 years for required upgrades, making it easier and less stressful for both owners and the wider community.
Even though there aren’t many earthquake-prone buildings in our area, it has been estimated these changes could still save local businesses more than $34 million. That’s a real boost for our region’s economy, while making sure safety efforts are directed to where they are needed most.
Rose cup for Trish
By Viv Posselt
Rose growers are a passionate and inventive lot.
Despite recent efforts by the weather gods to upend their 2025 season, rose enthusiasts turned on a spectacular display of blooms at the annual Te Awamutu Rose Show.
There were over 290 exhibitors in all, just a smidge below last year. Society president Diana Jones reckoned that was pretty good given the bouts of torrid weather and the fact the show was held slightly earlier than usual.
She was particularly tickled this year when her great-grandson Arlo Magee took out two awards – Best Member of the Public Exhibitor Children, and Overall Best Member of the Public Exhibitor.
“That was really exciting … a new generation of growers,” she said. “And he’s only three!”
The show was staged at Te Awamutu’s Sports and Recreation Club.
Among the winners was Sheree Gare from Ōhaupō, who won seven awards in all. Growing roses to perfection is in her blood. Her parents were award-winning growers; her mum Violet Forshaw, who now lives in Whangarei, has given her name to an exquisite miniature rose that this year won Sheree the Best Small Stem Champion Award (Miniature Type – or MT) – ‘Forshaw’.
Sheree seems to have a natural flair for tending things. When it’s not the blooms in her garden she’s caring for, it’s the patients she looks after as a nurse at Waikato
Hospital. She came to the Waikato as a student nurse in her teens, and in 1985 built a home with her husband in Ōhaupō.
“That first Christmas, my mum gave me 10 miniature roses and dad gave me six older, bigger roses. That started my passion. My first show was in 1986, and I’ve been involved ever since,” she said, adding that the tiny perfection of miniature roses fills a special spot in her heart. Of her 650 plus roses, only around 280 are the larger variety.
Sheree’s seven 2025 awards were Champion of Champions (Miniature Type), Best Exhibition Bloom (MT), Best Small Stem (MT), Best Vase of Roses (MT), Highest Overall Points of Show (MT); Best Small Stem (Large), and Highest Overall Points of Show.
Matamata’s Trish Wilcox won Champion of Champions (L) and Best Fully Open Bloom (L); Irene Taylor won Best Exhibition Bloom (L); Eileen Wilcox won Best Decorative Bloom (L) and Best Vase of Roses (L); Elinor Jackson won Best Exhibition Bloom or Stem Novice (L); Janet Pike won Best Decorative Bloom (MT); Jan Lusty won Best Fully Open Bloom (MT); Waipā District Council won Highest Overall Novice Classes; Lisa Fisher won Best Pedestal Arrangement; Harriet Dixon from Te Awamutu Information Centre won Best Member of the Public Exhibitor Adult; and Arlo Magee won Best Member of the Public Exhibitor Children, and Overall Best Member of the Public Exhibitor.
The Favourite Perfumed Rose was ‘Perfume Kiss’ from Amore Roses, entered by Linnie Jones.
Ōhaupō’s Sheree Gare, who won seven awards, pictured with her winning miniature rose ‘Forshaw’, named after her mother.
Photo: Viv Posselt.
Diana Jones with Murray Downs, who received the trophy on behalf of Waipā District Council’s win in the Highest Overall Novice Classes. hoto: Tess Smith
Tree planting to mark Te Kuiti Centenary
Briefs… Patriots pay their respects
Strike planned
More than 3 500 mental health nurses and assistants and public health nurses and 1700 policy, advisory, knowledge and specialist workers - who provide support for health care - have voted to strike on Friday next week,
McDonald’s ride
Australian based Waipā export James McDonald will represent New Zealand in next month’s
Longines International Jockeys’ Championship at Happy Valley Racecourse in Hong Kong next month.
By Viv Posselt
Ten years of kinship with a ‘tiny church in the bush’ was marked on Sunday as Pukeatua Memorial Church and its brotherhood of Patriots Defence Force Motorcycle Club (Hauraki) members gathered for their annual Remembrance Day service.
It was 10 years ago that the club forged a relationship with the church.
Speaking at the start of Sunday’s service, Patriots’ member Peter Leslie said the relationship had grown in significance over the decade. The
club has gifted several items to the church during that time, including a new flagpole. Patriots members are all ex or current servicemen with a shared affinity with soldiers lost in global conflicts. Leslie said it was timely for the service to be on the same day the New Zealand All Blacks, wearing a poppy on their jerseys, played a rugby test match in Scotland.
“While, rightfully so, Anzac Day is our primary day to remember the sacrifices of our defence force personnel, from the beach at Anzac Cove to the mountains of
Afghanistan, there have always been smaller ceremonies to mark Armistice or Remembrance Day.
“It is only right that in this wee church in the middle of the Waikato that these men and others from our wee country are remembered.”
The Pukeatua church is one of just two in the country built as a memorial to service personnel lost in the world wars. The other is at Tutira, north of Napier; both have historic building covenants over them. In his address at Sunday’s service, Te Awamutu RSA president Daniel van der Hulst said it was
on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month when World War One ended.
“The New Zealand Expeditionary Force had received its baptism of fire at Gallipoli in 1915 and went on to drench the soil of France and the Western Front with the blood of young New Zealanders for the next three years.”
He said 103,000 Kiwi troops and nurses, from a population of just over a million, served overseas during WW1, excluding those who served in the British and other Dominion forces.
“Forty-two per cent of all men of military age served in the New Zealand Expeditionary Force. Of these, 16,697 were killed and 41,317 were wounded during that war, which represents a 58 per cent casualty rate. We remember those who fought, those who fell, and all those who served.”
RSA padre Rev Murray Olson told the story of the Polish friar who became Saint Maximilian Kolbe. The friar’s outspoken views on the Nazi regime led to his incarceration at Auschwitz in 1941. When one prisoner escaped, men were chosen to face death by starvation – Kolbe was not one of them, but he volunteered to take the place of a man with a family. He was one of the last to remain alive, dying at the hands of guards who gave him a lethal injection.
Kolbe was beatified by Pope Paul V1 in 1971 and canonised by Pope John Paul 11 in 1982.
Rev Olson said his sacrifice, and that of those who died in war, exemplified the saying that ‘no man has greater love than to lay his life down for his friends’.
Patriots members ride in for two services at Pukeatua each year – Anzac Day and Armistice Day.
Patriots Defence Force Motorcycle Club (Hauraki chapter) members line up outside Pukeatua Memorial Church for Sunday’s Remembrance Day service.
Photo: Viv Posselt
ON SHAKY GROUND
Literal shaky ground
By Janine Krippner
Last week in Wellington I was lying in bed getting ready to sleep when I thought I felt the rumblings of a large truck going by. It died down, then a stronger shake hit. The “truck” was the initial phase of a magnitude 4.9 earthquake that originated below the Cook Straight at 22km depth and 25 km northwest of Wellington.
This is the second largest I have felt. Many of you might have also been woken at 5:39am on January 4, 2023, by the magnitude 5.1 earthquake that originated about 5 km south of Te Aroha, at 7 km depth.
While last week’s shake was decent enough to get the adrenaline flowing but not intense enough to shake anything over where I was, it is a good reminder that we live in an active country and a great time to ponder what we would do in a larger event.
In New Zealand we don’t have the luxury of pretending that our country won’t be impacted by another devastating earthquake. We will. It is a matter of when and where, not if.
A few hours before last week’s shake, I attended a fascinating public lecture at Victoria University of Wellington by Professor Rebecca Bednarek on the system of providing insurance when disasters strike. There are so many moving parts that determine how we recover from a disaster, and large events impact the entire country economically. It takes a mix of personal responsibility, private corporations, and our government all doing what we need to. Insurance becoming unaffordable is a scary thought when how quickly and
smoothly we recover depends on a heck of a lot of money. There is so much beyond the natural event itself that determines how much of a disaster we experience. It only becomes a disaster if we cannot cope with the hazard.
The personal responsibility aspect of this is where we can shine as individuals and communities.
There is plenty that we can do, which I will continue to share through this column. For now, check out advice given online at getready.govt.nz and perhaps commit to one small step to begin with.
Have a chat with your household and/ or neighbours about what you would do, especially if you are separated if an earthquake hits.
Also go through the steps in your mind on what to do when an earthquake strikes. Remember: Drop, Cover and Hold on. If you are in bed like I was, you can cover your head with a pillow and wait.
Maybe don’t have a sword collection above your bed, and remember that standing in a doorway is outdated advice. If you experience a damaging earthquake, have shoes ready so you don’t step on glass or anything else that might make recovery more painful.
These smaller jolts are signs of how active our country is, and of the processes that have shaped our landscapes. We are not powerless to these enormous forces, there is plenty of research and learned experience that can help us to come out better off.
Thank you, Ryan
By Julie Guest
A Thank You to Community Constable Ryan Fleming
As Ryan Fleming prepares to move on from his role as Community Constable in Te Awamutu, I want to express my gratitude for his service to our community.
Over the years of working alongside Ryan, he consistently shown that he is police officer who sees his role not merely as enforcement, but as care for the whole person.
Like the Good Samaritan who stopped to help the vulnerable traveller, Ryan demonstrated genuine concern for those in our community who were struggling, marginalized, or in need of support.
What struck me most was Ryan’s ability to see people as Christ sees them — not defined by their worst moments, but as individuals with inherent dignity and potential.
He actively sought ways to help each person, looking for the best in them even when circumstances were difficult.
At the same time, Ryan didn’t waver in his commitment to justice and community safety.
When property was being damaged or laws broken, he was proactive and decisive, ensuring that vulnerable members of our community felt protected and heard.
This balance—of mercy and justice, compassion and courage—is no easy feat.
I know from discussion with friends who invest in caring for the vulnerable in their communities that not all community constables are equal.
They tell me of police who operate with an attitude focused on “clearing their patch” — moving difficult people off our streets and onto someone else’s patch.
It seems to be policing aimed at achieving good statistics on paper rather than any improvement in people’s lives. This approach
fails to consider what displacing vulnerable people does to them personally, or the burden it simply transfers to other communities. By contrast, Ryan didn’t seek to simply moving problems around like pieces on a board, but invested in solutions. He understood that lasting community safety comes not from displacement, but from addressing root causes, building relationships, and helping people find pathways forward. His approach was more challenging and time-intensive, but it was genuinely redemptive. His work with Operation Christmas Hampers is an example of seeing a need and responding.
Ryan also worked closely with the CommSafe team, helping them to work effectively as observers and crime deterrents in communities.
Ryan embodied what it means to be a peacemaker in the truest sense—not merely keeping peace through authority, but building peace through relationship, understanding, and genuine care.
As church leaders and community members, we have been blessed to work alongside someone who understood that real community safety comes not just from law enforcement, but from caring for the vulnerable, dignifying every person, and building trust through consistent, compassionate presence.
Thank you, Ryan, for your faithful service to Te Awamutu.
You have been a blessing to our community, and you will be missed.
We pray God’s richest blessings on you as you move forward into your next chapter.
“Well done, good and faithful servant.” (Matthew 25:21)
Burials and bureaucracy
By Meghan Hawkes
When 18-month-old Sarah Jane Sterling died on a Sunday in January 1901 her father John was faced with more than just grief.
John and his wife Mary Jane kept a store and accommodation house on the railway route eight miles beyond Taumarunui.
John at once sent word of the death to the nearest constable – 24 miles distant - but the constable did not come.
John instead received a message that he must take Sarah Jane to Te Awamutu for burial.
Three years earlier, a five-week-old son of John and Mary’s had died at Coromandel and was buried at the Buffalo cemetery there. But this time John was faced with a trying ordeal just to inter his child.
At 3pm on the Monday afternoon he set out with the coffin and a driver, horse and buggy in order to catch the train the following morning.
He had to travel across the Whanganui and other unbridged rivers and creeks.
At 11pm the horse and buggy became stuck in the middle of a stream. The water rose and the coffin floated and John and the driver were in considerable peril.
There was no light, as their lamp wouldn’t burn, and they had to get out into the water, unfasten the horses, and hook the chain to the back of the buggy.
They then managed to haul the vehicle to the bank.
When John at last reached Poro-O-Tarao he was soaked through but had to continue his sad journey by train without any change of clothes. On arrival at Te Awamutu he saw the coroner, who at once gave him a
burial order.
John then had to convey Sarah Jane three miles to the Kihikihi
Roman Catholic cemetery, where the interment finally took place.
This, though, was not the end of his troubles. Not long after the burial he was presented with a summons and charged with not registering the birth of the child.
Brought before two justices of the peace, John declared that the child was registered at Coromandel, but despite his statement he was fined a shilling as well as 12 shillings court costs.
John later took the matter to Mr Martin, solicitor, who advised he present the facts to the Minister of Justice.
There was great sympathy for John in his ordeal, newspapers commenting that the “lot of settlers in outlying districts is one beset by many disadvantages, and these should not be aggravated by needless hardships…
In the interests of settlers situated as Mr Sterling is, we trust the Minister will inquire into the matter, and frame regulations to meet cases of this kind”.
The trials of the Sterlings would continue. Mary Jane died two years later, the same year another daughter was born to the couple.
John ended his days at Tokanui Psychiatric Hospital and was buried at the cemetery there.
Mary Jane and Sarah Jane are buried next to each other at Kihikihi cemetery
Super rugby links
By Jesse Wood
Waipā connected players are once again scattered across the Pacific following the 2026 Super Rugby squad namings last week.
There are 12 players and coaching staff with Hautapu connections, eight Te Awamutu Sports alumni, one for Ōhaupō and arguably New Zealand’s best halfback, Karāpiroraised Cam Roigard.
Four-test Flying Fijian Manasa Mataele has transferred from the Chiefs to the Fijian Drua after spending a season at Hautapu.
He has previously played for the Crusaders and Western Force. He now links up with one of Te Awamutu’s favourite sons Chris Gibbes, part of the Drua coaching staff.
Te Awamutu Sports’ Austin Anderson will once again kit up for the Brumbies in Canberra.
The rest of the players are spread around New Zealand. Chris’ younger brother Jono Gibbes has named plenty of Waipā connected players in his first Chiefs squad.
In his coaching box, he also has former Hautapu reps Marty Bourke and Liam Messam.
After an impressive debut NPC season with Waikato, rangy Hautapu lock Dylan Eti returns to the Chiefs having previously been incorporated as a NDC (national development contract) player earlier this year.
Fellow Cambridge clubmates at the franchise are the All Blacks trio of Samipeni Finau, Luke Jacobson and Ollie Norris.
Former Hautapu forward Simon Parker, fresh off an All Blacks start, also returns next season. Leroy Carter, son of club stalwart Chris, will prepare for his second season in Super Rugby.
Hautapu tall-timber
Laghlan McWhannell is again up State Highway 1 at the Blues to be joined by former clubmate Bradley Slater.
Senita Lauaki has been called to the deep south for a Highlanders wider training group contract. He will hope to follow in his late brother Sione’s footsteps and appear at Super Rugby level.
St Peter’s old boy Cam Roigard will continue his reign in the Hurricanes nine jersey.
One-cap Ōhaupō representative Ngane Punivai remains at the Hurricanes too after an NPC title winning season alongside Mataele at Canterbury.
In Te Awamutu, Sports will be celebrating the return of Josh Moorby to the Wellington franchise. Hurricane No. 290 is back following a season in France with Top 14 club Montpellier.
“It’s an exciting time of the year when the final squad gets announced and we start to look forward to bringing the players back in,” Hurricanes head coach Clark Laidlaw said.
Taha Kemara has been retained at the Crusaders following a season ending knee injury. He is signed until the end of 2028.
Former Sports men Tai Cribb (Highlanders), Antonio Shalfoon (Crusaders) and Malachi Wrampling (Blues) also get another super shot in 2026.
CountryLife
NOVEMBER 2025
From farm to fame
Zealong Tea Estate is brewing more than just globally acclaimed teas on land that was once a dairy farm. Mary Anne Gill visits Gordonton in Waikato to uncover the innovation and international acclaim stirring beneath the land.
Gigi Crawford has another plan up her sleeve.
The Zealong Tea Estate chief executive is brimming with ideas and has built a team eager to bring her creative visions to life.
The latest is a tea-based cocktail she believes will be a hit with guests. During a team meeting, the Zealong staff brainstormed name ideas and came up with Waikato Sunrise.
“In Singapore, they have the Singapore Sling, so we wanted something that said Waikato,” says Crawford, referencing the general scenic beauty of the region at dawn and particularly the view over the Gordonton tea plantation.
The cocktail – created by Annalyn Walen - uses Zealong’s green heart tea, yuzu, elderflower and either vodka or gin.
While the team toasted their new creation, they had another reason to celebrate.
It’s surreal to think our tea, grown right here in the mighty Waikato, is now enjoyed across the globe.
– Gigi Crawford
spots in global cities, each tea house has its own story, ambience, and unique tea experience.
national icon of quality, innovation and sustainability.
“It’s a world class brand producing premium teas that are now right across the world.
Zealong is the only commercial tea estate in New Zealand and produces organic, award-winning teas (green, black, and oolong).
Newly-elected Waikato mayor Aksel Bech, Hamilton and Waikato Tourism chief executive Nicola Greenwell and NZ Trade and Enterprise customer manager Lisa Marcroft were on hand to celebrate with Crawford, general manager Sen Kong and other Zealong staff.
It marked Waikato Sunrise’s debut along with one of Zealong’s Signature High Teas and tea tasting.
The estate has been recognised in a book called “150 Tea Houses You Need to Visit Before You Die.”
From traditional Japanese tea houses to modern, trendy hot
Bech told The News he had sampled just about every experience at the estate and was thrilled to give the cocktail a go.
“Zealong is not just a local success but it’s actually a
“It is so much more than about tea – it’s the manaakitanga (hospitality, kindness, and support) that every visitor will feel when they come here, whether local or international.”
“It’s a unique experience that really envelopes the visitor with a really authentic connection to these very special Waikato soils.
“Excellence has grown right out of the soil here,” he says praising Zealong’s transformation from dairy farm to global tea icon.
“Yes we know we can put some cows out there and produce some milk, but what we’ve done here is so much more …. and that’s a real testament to Zealong in the spirit of showing what is possible.”
Crawford says inclusion in the
The three who prepared a high tea to celebrate inclusion in a book were from left Krisca Ramos (Functions & Events Chef), Valentina Avecilla (Executive Chef - Tea Room) and Faith Holman (Kitchen Hand).
Photo: Mary Anne Gill
Zealong Tea Room has been included in a prestigious global book showcasing the tea plantation that was once a Waikato dairy farm. Photo: Mary Anne Gill
book was special.
“We have always believed in our story and are honoured to have it shared in these pages,” says Crawford.
“It’s surreal to think that our tea, grown right here in the mighty Waikato, is now enjoyed and stocked on shelves across the globe.
“To receive this kind of international recognition is a huge honour and a testament to the unwavering passion and commitment of everyone at Zealong,” she says.
Greenwell.
Waikato has the ideal combination of abundant rainfall, sunshine, freedraining acidic soil and the right temperature for growing tea. The famous fog also plays its part in ensuring that the plants enjoy the good level of moisture they need to thrive.
is still on the estate as are the camellia bushes which thrive in the same conditions as tea plants.
Zealong founder Vincent Chen saw how well camellias did and decided to give tea a go initially importing 1500 tea cuttings from Taiwan. Only 130 survived New Zealand’s quarantine protocols.
“The dedicated team at Zealong consistently strives for and delivers perfection in every interaction with manuhiri (visitors), ensuring that every guest enjoys a fantastic and memorable experience,” says
Zealong produces an annual harvest of 20 tonnes from 1.2 million tea plants on 48 hectares of land. Tea pickers – some from Taiwan and others from around New Zealand – started work the day after the book celebration.
The estate was founded in 1996 – there’s another set of ideas whizzing around in Crawford’s head, how to celebrate the 30th birthday. It was once a dairy farm – the original farmhouse
Drinking tea is an integral part of many cultures, particularly in Asia. New Zealanders rank eighth globally in tea consumption, averaging 1.19kg per person annually - well behind Turkey, where residents consume 3.16kg each, equivalent to 1300 cups a year.
The most popular varieties in New Zealand are English breakfast, black, green, Earl Grey and fruit infusions.
Zealong chief executive Gigi Crawford, right, watches as Waikato mayor Aksel Bech and Hamilton & Waikato Tourism’s Nicola Greenwell sample the legendary High Tea.
Photo: Mary Anne Gill
Forest, farms and fresh starts
Recently introduced government regulations appear to be curbing largescale farm conversions to forestry, according to REINZ rural spokesperson Shane O’Brien.
“We’ve already noticed less demand for forestry land, mainly due to tighter government rules,” he says.
“It’s become a bit of a hot potato, and buyers are being very cautious.”
Concerns have been mounting - especially in sheep and beef regionsthat too much productive farmland is being lost to pine.
While forestry has its benefits, pine plantations don’t contribute to local communities in the same way traditional farms do.
In response, the government introduced new rules earlier this year.
“A lot of farmers have felt forestry was destroying communities and no one really likes forest next door because of animals, such as pigs, wandering out and causing damage, as well as an added fire risk and because weeds aren't being controlled.”
While pine may be losing favour, the outlook for dairy is optimistic.
“(Recent stats show) the dairy industry is clearly going well and existing operators are looking to take the opportunity from good milk payouts and lower interest rates to further develop their farms,” O’Brien says.
“As Waikato has a strong dairy infrastructure and base, a lot of the interest in buying dairy farms is predominantly local. So, mostly, it’s coming from farmers who are growing their businesses.”
In the Bay of Plenty, kiwifruit remains the top pick among buyers.
“The REINZ statistics show that the biggest part of the rural real estate market in the Bay of Plenty is still horticulture,” O’Brien says.
“Compared to 12 months ago, there's more positivity in the horticultural sector. It's been tough going for avocado growers, and I don't think that's going to change quickly, but kiwifruit is still strong.”
As for lifestyle properties, Auckland’s tightening landuse policies appear to be fuelling demand further
With the Supercity aiming to protect prime farmland while increasing housing supply, lifestyle blocks have become harder to find.
This appears to have fed added interest in lifestyle property in Waikato and the Bay of Plenty.
“Yes, there is more demand for lifestyle property in these areas,” O’Brien says.
“Waikato's far more accessible now due to the expressway. Post-Covid, more people are working from home and the idea of living in the country has become more attractive and practical.
“So, we're expecting the lifestyle market to remain pretty positive and active in these regions overall as well.”
- Jon Rawlinson afield.
We are your trusted source for quality tractors and farm equipment.
We have got finance deals across the range — from compact machines, to the big horsepower gear that gets it done. Give us a call, or pop in for a yarn about what’s right for your setup.
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waikatotractors.co.nz @waikatotractors
COMFY CARE
Enjoy welcoming, comfy surroundings and a warm sense of belonging at our Resthaven on Burns Care Centre.
• We are a community charitable trust providing quality, affordable care for seniors.
• Our caring team are here to help you enjoy the things you love, whether it is gardening, baking, trips to town, hobbies, or simply a quiet afternoon relaxing.
• Our commitment to affordability means there is no premium daily room charge at Resthaven on Burns.
Shane O’Brien
Later Life Relationship Property and Succession Planning
Later-life planning is essential to making sure our wishes are respected and followed. This also applies to relationship property.
It is common for people to end and start new relationships later in life. When you enter a new relationship later in life, you also bring along your life’s work in terms of your property and legacy. Your property becomes available for potential division with your new partner, or their estate. Relationship property can be divided not only on separation, but also on death. A claim can be made either by or against an estate.
There are many good reasons to want to avoid your property being divided in this way. A common reason is a desire to provide for your children from a previous relationship, or to properly balance your legacy to children and step-children. Or it may be to simply avoid costly disputes and have more control over how your own estate is administered. When you are making plans for your future and succession, it is prudent to consider “contracting out” of the default rules for dividing relationship property at the end of a relationship. A “contracting out” agreement can work alongside your will and other estate planning, to help ensure your property is administered according to your wishes. It can help minimise risk of claims against you by your deceased partner’s estate. No matter your circumstances, contact Your Lawyers to help you design a succession plan that works best for you.
Jadin Hooper
Smarter ways to deliver
By Liz Stolwyk, Waipā-King Country regional councillor
Landowners across the Waikato have once again stepped up to protect and enhance our environment, partnering with Waikato Regional Council to complete 347 voluntary environmental projects in 2024/25.
Together, these efforts have retired 1140 hectares of unproductive land and resulted in nearly 570,000 trees planted across the region.
In Waipā/King Country alone, landowners planted more than 100,000 native trees and shrubs, protected 14,815 metres of streambank, and retired around 90 hectares of erosionprone land.
These community-driven projects show that real progress can be made when councils and landowners work side by side.
Our focus as a council remains clear: finding smarter and more efficient ways to deliver meaningful environmental outcomes. We know the challenges are complex, but the success of these projects shows that practical, local action works.
Meanwhile Warren Maher has been unanimously elected as the new Waikato Regional Council chair. Warren brings three years of valuable experience from his previous term and a steady, pragmatic approach to decision-making.
We also extend our thanks to retiring councillor Stu Kneebone, who has completed an impressive 15 years of service. Stu’s knowledge and commitment to rural communities and environmental policy have left a lasting mark.
A new committee structure is being established, there’s already lively debate around the number of committees! I’m optimistic that the experienced voices around the table will help shape a constructive start to this triennium.
Plan Change One continues its progress through the Environment Court and one of the first decisions council made was to request a two to three month extension of this decision to enable an economic impact analysis to take place.
I understand the anxiety among rural communities - it is very much the “hot potato” of the moment. Be assured,
extensive discussions are underway to find a balanced path that protects our environment while sustaining a strong rural economy.
The other “hot potato” is our commitment to rates control and efficiency. Ratepayers can expect a strong focus on delivering better outcomes for every dollar spent.
Did you know that nearly 43 per cent of Waikato’s landscape is at high risk of soil erosion?
Our region’s steep slopes, high rainfall, and weathered geology make it especially vulnerable - and the challenge is even greater in our hillcountry farming areas.
Targeted funding remains available, and we’re encouraging hill-country landowners in the Waipā/King Country to get in touch with the council. Whether it’s fencing off a stream, planting natives, or restoring a hillside, every project makes a difference.
A final congratulations to all elected members of the Waikato Region – I look forward to meeting and working with you all. To all ratepayers - my phone is always on and I’m always happy to meet.
Sisters and goats succeed
By Jesse Wood
The Neilson-Smith sisters have had a busy few months proudly showing their goats in agricultural competitions across Waipā and the Waikato - and learning plenty about responsibility along the way.
Pāterangi School students Erika, 11, Anna, 8, and Paris, 5, have put in the hard yards to nurture and display their calf club pets.
Midnight, Star and Lilly respectively have become the centre of the sisters’ world since arriving on August 13.
“It’s the first time Paris has had a calf club goat, this will be Anna’s third goat and Erika has had a mixture of lambs and goats since she was 5,” mum Laura NeilsonSmith said.
“They share knowledge and talk with each other.
They work together.”
Laura said the girls have had a wonderful time playing racing goats in the paddock, tag and jumping on large rocks with their furry friends.
“I even discovered Erika sleeping in the sun with the goats one day,” Laura said.
“The girls made their bottles every morning and night and worked together to mix milk for the selffeeder that was used during the day.
“They also had to take turns at cleaning the selffeeder that all three goats used.
“Unfortunately we can’t keep the goats after every season.”
After school they would give their goats pellets and play with them in the paddock.
Older sister Michelle, 13, also got involved.
She set up a ring with a ramp, rounds of wood and planks to walk over.
After a successful Pāterangi School agricultural day, the trio entered the combined agricultural day in Kihikihi.
• Anna and Star placed first in rearing and was reserve champion for leading.
• Paris and Lilly were second in rearing, third in leading and sixth in most obvious pet.
• Erika and Midnight grabbed second place in rearing and fourth for most obvious pet.
At the Waikato Show boys and girls agriculture day, hosted in Hamilton at Claudelands showgrounds, the accolades kept coming.
Laura said it was great to have Te Awamutu’s Wilma van der Hulst as a judge.
The trio and their goats
won group of three, also taking home placings in their respective sections.
Lilly was Paris’ first calf club goat.
BANK STREET, TE AWAMUTU STUNNING MEDICAL INVESTMENT
• Purpose built medical centre plus pharmacy, radiology and physio
• Anchored by Te Awamutu Medical Centre on a renewed 6 year lease term
• Currently returning $260,268pa plus GST & Outgoings (approx.)
• Profile location with three street frontages
• 2,341sqm (more or less) of commercial zoned land with over 1,000sqm of building
The medical centre consists of a functional and efficient layout, including a reception, two waiting areas, 23 consulting rooms access from the main waiting area, first floor staff amenities and offices. The Pharmacy is a separate retail area, which has an entry directly from the medical centre’s main entrance, as well its own external access. Similarly Vigour Physiotherapy and Hamilton Radiology are located on the northern side of the medical centre, having their own entrance plus access from the main waiting area of the medical centre. Contact us now for a full Information Memorandum.
Deadline Sale closing 4pm, Wednesday 3rd December 2025, 678 Victoria Street, Hamilton (unless sold prior) www.naiharcourts.co.nz/HCM32728
Mike Neale 021 451 5133 mike.neale@naiharcourts.co.nz
Ken McGrath 027 498 4156 ken.mcgrath@harcourts.co.nz
UNINTERRUPTED PANORAMIC VISTA
Nestled high on the rise with panoramic views over town, this home has been lovingly renovated to open up the living/dinning and make good use of the picture window for watching the world go by. The island kitchen features black cabinetry and a generous countertop. With under bench oven and gas hob, entertaining is a breeze. The home features polished wood floors and a light pallet throughout, two heat pumps and insulation in ceiling, walls and under floor. Modern blinds and curtains dress the windows, the home has a wet floor bathroom, a central hall for inside/out access with ramp and new deck. The property is fully fenced with electric gates and security cameras, landscaped with concrete driveway and turn bay. Outside the fenced area is a lower-level flat area suitable for parking the mobile home or caravan sitting clear of driveway and other off-street parking.
The property sits behind a corner council owned site, designated as roading. Call Vayle to arrange a viewing.
Mangahana
Value for Money in the King Country
Big on land area, but not necessarily price , this exciting new listing located just 17 kilometres west of Te Kuiti represents an affordable farming opportunity. With flat to gently rolling contour, solid production history, and good infrastructure, this property is an attractive option for those looking to secure a genuine working farm without stretching the budget.
- 214.8184 hectares (more or less)
- 2024/25 production: 179,281 KG/MS from 509 cows
- 40-bail rotary cowshed plus near-new 7-bay calf/implement shed
- Lined effluent pond
- Two 3-bedroom homes
- Subdivision consent granted for an additional title
Why settle for hill country farming when opportunities like this are available! Come along to our next open day and see the untapped potential for yourself. With realistic expectations, our motivated vendors are committed to selling this spring.
First Farm Opportunity with X Factor
If
3
Executive Lifestyle Property - Home, Superior Sheds & 12 Hectares of Land
This Hinuera Stone home exudes a relaxed country charm. Accommodation includes five double bedrooms, two lounges, and a generous home office/family room. What sets this property apart is the sheer size and versatility of its infrastructure. The extensive shed complex spans approx. 1,000sqm. The scale and presentation of this 12-hectare (approx. 30-acre) property is unparalleled, offering outstanding potential for home-based business ventures, storage, or even event hosting with ample parking and a stunning garden backdrop. Lovingly developed over generations, this property carries a rich local history-transformed from humble beginnings into one of the King Country’s truly iconic lifestyle estates. Opportunities like this are exceedingly rare. We challenge you to find better.
For Sale Tender closes Thurs 27
will generate strong interest and sell through the tender process - meaning your opportunity to secure it is now.
Ōtorohanga 1209 SHWY 3, Otorohanga Road
80-Hectare Dairy with Location & Contour
Centrally located between Otorohanga and Te Awamutu, this outstanding new listing will impress in more ways than one. With predominantly flat to gentle rolling contour, a strong production history, and immaculate presentation, this faithfully farmed property deserves to be at the top of your viewing list this spring.
- 80.3284 hectares (more or less)
- Milking 186 cows
- Production history exceeding 77,000 Kg/MS
- 16-aside herringbone cowshed with in-shed feeding
- Excellent range of support buildings
- Large 4-bedroom home plus 2-bedroom cottage
After 21 years of dedicated ownership, the vendors are now looking to retire, presenting a genuine opportunity for new owners to take over a well-established and well-presented farming operation. With a prime location, quality contour, and strong infrastructure, this is a property that truly delivers.
Te Kūiti 135 Whataroa Road
Te Kūiti 1500 State Highway
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8. Question (11) 12. Detailed (9) 15. Shining (7) 16. From one side to the other (6) 19. Cold, or fast (colloq) (5) 20. Wagon (4) 23. Hot tub (3)
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CHURCH SERVICES 10am 16th November - Dr Terry Cowland
23rd November
3pm Family Carol Service followed by refreshments All Welcome
GUFFAWS
GURGLE HA-HA
JOLLITY
LARKS
LAUGHINGMATTER LAUGHS
LAUGHTER MERRY
REPARTEE REVELS
RIB-TICKLING
SIDE-SPLITTING
SMILE
SNICKER
SNIGGERS
TEE-HEE
TICKLE
TITTER
Across: 1. Able, 4. Urgent, 8. Malaria, 9. Molar, 10. Soya, 11. Scrounge, 13. Pragmatic, 17. Withdraw, 19. Pail, 21. Sushi, 22. Inflate, 23. Method, 24. Reek. Down: 2. Belly-up, 3. Earn, 4. Unaccompanied, 5. Gumboots, 6. Nylon, 7. Creek, 8. Mist, 12. Sandwich, 14. Charade, 15. Twist, 16. Clue, 18. Taste, 20. Afar.
PIRONGIA TOPIARY
Open Fridays 10am-4pm 132 Sainsbury Rd Pirongia OR Phone Susan Ranstead 0274 176 379
PLAN CHANGE 26 TO THE WAIPĀ DISTRICT PLAN
PUBLIC NOTIFICATION OF MINISTER’S DECISIONS ON REFERRED INDEPENDENT HEARING PANEL
RECOMMENDATIONS PURSUANT TO CLAUSE 106 OF THE FIRST SCHEDULE OF THE RESOURCE MANAGEMENT ACT 1991
The Minister Responsible for RMA Reform has made his decisions on recommendations of the IHP for PC26 that were referred to him by Waipā District Council.
These decisions were received by Waipā District Council on October 16, 2024. This notice acts as public notification of the Minister’s decision as required by Clause 106(1) of the First Schedule of the Resource Management Act.
Recommendations accepted by the Minister:
• Map the Infrastructure Constraint Qualifying Matter Overlay to cover the full extent of the Medium Density Residential Zone; and
• Amend Rule 2A.4.2.8 to read:
On sites located within the Stormwater Qualifying Matter Overlay, the maximum site coverage must not exceed 40% of the net site area
Recommendations rejected by the Minister:
• Reinstate provisions specific to relocated buildings; and
• Remove new financial contribution provisions.
The Ministers reasons for rejecting these recommendations are:
• Proposed requirements for relocated buildings would add to the complexity and cost of relocating buildings and are not justified by any effects specifically arising from relocated buildings.
• The removal of the relocated building provisions is also better aligned with Policy 6(b) of the National Policy Statement on Urban Development.
• There is insufficient evidence to justify the scale of change sought by the Council through its alternative recommendation on financial contributions.
• The IHP’s financial contribution recommendation is supported by a robust body of evidence, which has been tested through a fulsome hearings process. Where to view the decisions
This public notice and the Minister’s decision can be viewed at the following:
• Online at Proposed Plan Change 26 – Residential Zone Intensification - Waipa District Council (waipadc.govt.nz)
• At Waipā District Council offices and libraries in Te Awamutu and Cambridge
Stephanie O’Sullivan Chief Executive For and on behalf of Waipā District Council
WAIPA DISTRICT COUNCIL MEETING NOTICES
Pursuant to Section 46 of the Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act 1987 notice is hereby given that: The following meetings will take place in November 2025: Wednesday, Inaugural Te Awamutu and 12 November, 2025 Kihikihi Community Board Meeting 6.00pm Council Chambers 101 Bank Street TE AWAMUTU Friday, Council Meeting 14 November, 2025 9.10am Council Chambers 101 Bank Street TE AWAMUTU
This meeting was unable to be notified earlier due to the election period. The details of this meeting including the subject matter and resolutions can be found on the council website under the Meetings and Agendas page.
All meeting information and electronic copies of Council agendas are available at waipadc.govt.nz/agendasandminutes
Steph O’Sullivan Chief
FOR SALE
ROUND and Conventional. Hay and silage making. Phone 0273713368.
SITUATIONS VACANT
FARM EMPLOYMENT –
Weed Sprayer required to operate our spray truck with automatic reels and some knapsacking on large dairy and dry stock farm. Must have experienced. 20 minutes from Otorohanga. Ph/Txt 027 4781783.
WORK AVAILABLE
Handyperson/Gardener
wanted. Hours to suit. TXT 0274 932 421
AGISTMENT
GRAZING available for dairy heifers. Ph 027 415 4122
SITUATIONS VACANT
QUALIFIED BRICK/PAVER LAYER and Landscaper/ Planter required for local one-off job. Quote required. Ph 021 834 248.
Relief Milker
Reliable experienced drive in relief milker wanted
330 cows Rotoorangi Ph: 0272483007
SITUATIONS VACANT
FARM WORKER WANTED
Dairy goat farm 5 mins from Otorohanga town. Successful applicant will be responsible for milking 570 housed dairy goats.
Mow and pick up grass and feed into housing barns. Do general farm duties and effluent management. Must be competent in milking, animal health, milk quality, diary hygiene systems, and machinery skills and general farm skills. Ph or Txt 0274 781783
CLEANER
As our Infection Control Champion, you will play a critical role in protecting our Residents and staff with your high standards of cleaning and attention to detail. You must have :
• a good knowledge of cleaning, laundry and infection control procedures or just have a natural obsession for keeping things clean and tidy! (in which case, full training will be gladly provided)
• the ability to work Monday to Sunday rostered shifts
Call Andrew on 027 553 2614
Ruapuha Uekaha Hapū Trust (Hauturu
East 8)
Early Childhood Education (ECE), Primary, Intermediate & Secondary Grants 2026 School Year Education Grant Round NOW OPEN
Karanga mai - calling all descendants of Tanetinorau Opataia, Te Aroa Haami Haereiti, Te Riutoto Aihe & Whatakaraka. You are invited to apply for education grants in the following areas; - ECE, Primary, Intermediate & Secondary Grants for 2026 School Year.
You can download an application form from the RUHT website www.ruht.co.nz or by contacting educationgrants@ruht.co.nz.
To be eligible for a grant you must be registered with the Ruapuha Uekaha Hapū Trust. Before applying if you are unsure whether your children are registered, please email register@ruht.co.nz.
Applications close Friday, 05 December 25 @ 2PM. LATE APPLICATIONS WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED.
For all queries phone 0800 525 626 (Option 2)or email educationgrants@ruht.co.nz.
WANTED TO BUY
WANTED TO BUY. Any ute, van, 4WD, truck or car. Any condition doesn’t have to be going. Cash paid. Ph/txt Kevin 027 299 6165
TO LET
13 WARD STREET, TE KUITI 4-bedroom, 2 bathrooms with sleepout. 2 covered bays for car parking. Extra car parking space. Walking distance to New World, town centre, schools. Available to rent from now on. My contact number is 0212602626. Email: rosstrevorbennett@ gmail.com
PUBLIC NOTICES SERVICES FOR TELEVISION REPAIRS & TUNING
HALL, Ian Ross – Passed away peacefully at Bupa Eventhorpe on Wednesday, 5th November 2025, aged 85 years. Loved and cherished by all who knew him. A special and heartfelt thanks to the wonderful staff at Bupa Eventhorpe Care Home for the compassion, dignity, and care shown to Ian throughout his final years. As per Ian’s wishes, a private farewell has been held. Messages to the Hall Family may be sent c/- 262 Ohaupo Road, Te Awamutu 3800, or left in Ian’s online tribute book at www.rosetown.co.nz
CONTINUING EDUCATION
NGAHIWI, Arthur Te Kotahitanga – Passed away peacefully in his sleep at Radius Windsor Court on Thursday, 6th November 2025, aged 76 years. Dearly loved partner of Virginia. Beloved father and koro to Nigel, Arthur, William, Mary-Anne, and Reynee. Cherished grandfather to his 17 mokopuna, and treasured great-grandfather to eight mokopuna. A Tangihanga for Arthur has been held at Pūrekireki-Wīwī Marae. Messages to the Ngahiwi Whānau may be sent c/- 262 Ohaupo Road, Te Awamutu 3800, or shared in Arthur’s online tribute book at www. rosetown.co.nz.
WALKER, Peter James
A conversation about Death to help you live more fully 11am next Tuesday 20 August 2024
A conversation about Death to help you live more fully 11am Tuesday 18 November 2025
Parish of St John’s Lounge 162 Arawata St Te Awamutu ALL WELCOME
Parish of St John’s Lounge 162 Arawata St Te Awamutu
ALL WELCOME
No cost, but koha welcome
No cost, but koha welcome
“Kazz’’ – Passed away suddenly on 9th November 2025, aged 65 years. Loved husband of Heather. Devoted father and father-in-law of Luke & Carmel, Kaleb & Abbi, Aidan & Alanah, beloved Pop of Bonny, Van, and Theo. A celebration of life will be held at Waipa Workingmen’s Club, 139 Albert Park Drive, Te Awamutu on Friday, 14th November at 10:30am followed by a private burial. All communications to the Walker family, PO Box 137, Te Awamutu 3840.
Te Awamutu Funeral Services, FDANZ
