More help for river care
By Roy Pilott
Waipā based restoration projects have been granted the two highest single awards in the latest Waikato River Authority funding round.
New Zealand Landcare Trust gets $1.17 million for its work on Taiea to Taiao – the Mangapiko ecological corridor between Maungatautari and Pirongia maunga. And Pūniu River Care’s Te Manawanui o Waipā – 2025 work was given just under $992,000 from the $57 million pool.
Waikato River Authority co-chair and former Waipā-King Country constituent regional councillor Stu Kneebone said there had been 43 applications in the latest funding round asking for a total of $12 million from the authority for projects with a total value of $22 million.
The Waikato River Authority has allocated $86.3 million to 522 projects supporting the restoration and protection of the Waikato and Waipā Rivers and their catchments since 2012.
For the corridor, the funds will go towards expanding proven work and partnerships.
More than 325,000 trees have been planted and 1200 predator traps set since 2021. The project also involves fencing, habitat restoration and community engagement.
The Mangapiko Stream winds its way from Maungatautari through Te Awamutu and on to Pirongia where it meets the Waipā River.
Project coordinator Bexie Towle told The News the grant provided comfort in planning ahead for the next planting season. The initial funding for the project will expire next June – this latest grant provides certainty for the immediate future.
Towle said the project was in its early days – “trees take a while to grow” – but the benefits of conservation work was already being seen as birds come out of the mountains.
The Pūniu River work involves riparian restoration where landowners contribute towards costs.
The 83km long Pūniu River flows from the Pureora Forest Park, passes by Kihikihi and Te Awamutu and four marae - Mangatoatoa, Rāwhitiroa, Aotearoa and Whakamāramainto the Waipā river south of Pirongia. It is where the river flows through farmland that restoration work is being carried out to provide a corridor for native species.
The trust website notes the river was once a rich source of freshwater kai and provided picnic and swimming spots – but is no longer classified as being of a swimmable
standard.
The tuna stocks have depleted in some areas, the banks of the rivers are eroding and over 10,000 tonnes of sediment discharges into the Waipā river from the Pūniu River every year.
Of the latest grants, Kneebone said it was great to see the level of ongoing collaboration between landowners, iwi, and larger restoration groups to increase the impact of our funding across the catchment.
Waikato River Authority co-chair Danny Loughlin said 40 per cent of project applications were submitted by iwi entities for the 2025 round, and there has been strong engagement with river iwi across most projects.”
Nationally, the New Zealand Landcare Trust – based at Waikato University - reports it has planted almost 75000 native plants this year.
This file photo shows Bexie Towle with children during a planting programme a year into the Taiea to Taiao project
•
Mayors, from left Mike Pettit (Waipā), Tim Macindoe (Hamilton), Aksel Bech (Waikato) and Gary Petley (South Waikato) were at the Waikato Business Awards in Hamilton last week. The gala dinner, attended by nearly 800 business and civic leaders making it the country’s most successful awards event, was a spectacular night of glitz and glam at Claudelands Arena. Hamilton’s RML Machinery was named Supreme Award winner, capping off a night in which they also took home the Innovation Award for their pioneering work in automated guided vehicles. Other major winners included Fiona Michel of Braemar Hospital (Chief Executive of the Year) and Claire Williamson of My
On the beat
Liquor outlets checked
In my role as Community Liaison Officer, I enjoy a lot of job variety.
Last Saturday I took part in a Controlled Purchase Operation (alcohol), working with representatives from Waipā and Ōtorohanga district councils, Ministry of Health and some of my Prevention Team colleagues. The purpose of this operation was to assess compliance by on and off-licence holders around the sale of alcohol to minors.
Underage volunteers visited premises in Piopio, Te Kūiti, Ōtorohanga, Te Awamutu, Pirongia and Cambridge. Overall levels of compliance were good, however three businesses across the district did sell to the volunteers. They will face appropriate follow-up action. Policing otherwise continued to be busy across Waipā in recent days, some examples below. The Sunday before last, three people were reported to have stolen a large trolley of groceries from a supermarket in Cambridge. Their vehicle was located driving away on Achilles Avenue and stopped. Officers found the boot stacked full of stolen items. One person faced court charges and a second was put through alternative action. A third was found not to have committed any offence. Still in Cambridge, last Wednesday a male was reported for threatening behaviour towards a younger female. He came to
police attention for other matters the next day and was arrested and charged in relation to the first incident. He was remanded in custody. Between Wednesday and Friday last week , Cambridge Police also dealt with another male who was behaving threateningly and in possession of an offensive weapon. He was arrested and appeared in court. He then went on to breach his bail conditions and was arrested a second time. Being then found in possession of a knife, he faced court and further charges accordingly. In Te Awamutu last weekend, a male was arrested following an assault on a family member and appeared in court. A vehicle was then reported driving dangerously on State Highway 3, crossing the centre line, speeding through roadworks and being inconsistent with its speed otherwise. When located by police and signalled to stop, the driver instead pulled out into the opposite lane, driving towards oncoming traffic and almost causing a crash. The driver finally stopped. He was found to be a tourist visiting New Zealand, driving a rental vehicle. As a result of his actions, the driver was immediately forbidden to drive, summonsed to appear in court on a charge of dangerous driving and the rental car agreement was cancelled by the agent.
Second or third?
Why does Waipa District Council in the form of Katie Mayes, Cambridge Connections Executive Director, persist with the disingenuous and misleading phrase “third bridge” when talking about future transport needs in Cambridge (The News November 13)?
With the intended closure of the current high level bridge to vehicular traffic the proposed new bridge, wherever it might be at some unknown future date, will be a second bridge and should be referred to as such. It’s a small but important distinction. Closing the current high level bridge makes no sense if the intention with the “reset” is to improve and balance traffic movements. It should be retained and in time either strengthened or replaced whichever is most appropriate. Closing it will, with the significant increase in truck movements in coming years due to the sand pit consent, merely exacerbate the congestion caused by those who will have to travel to town via the low level bridge.
The second bridge needs to be located for convenient access to town and not become just a more circuitous route that will be avoided because of its inconvenience! Time is of the essence in choosing a site given the town’s rapid expansion.
Kelvin Dunn Leamington
• Editor’s note – see story Page 10.
Mortgage (Emerging Leader of the Year).
Photo: Mike Walen.
with Senior Constable DEB HANN
Person of the Year
Good Local Media will complete its publication year on December 18 by announcing our Person of the Year awards in Cambridge and Te Awamutu. Can you think of someone deserving of recognition? Email editor@goodlocal.nz and put the words Person of the Year in the subject line.
Carrying on…
Businessman Zane Beckett says it’s “business as usual” at ZB Homes. “We have been doing a tidy up with our accountants, winding up non trading entities, such as Zane Beckett Construction,” he said. “…it did trigger the standard “in liquidation” adverts in the newspaper classifieds. We can assure you it is business as usual here and there is no change to our ZB Homes business at all.”
Rose Sunday
Te Awamutu will celebrate its annual Rose Sunday, with picnics and family entertainment unfolding in the morning the Te Awamutu Rose Gardens. The event is run by the Te Awamutu Rose Society each final Sunday in November.
Raising funds
Rosetown Lions are in the midst of one their major community fundraisers –their Christmas Sleigh Raffle – which last year raised about $8000. It is the third time the club has run the raffle since taking it over from Te Awamutu Pakeke Lions who ran it successfully for many years. Secretary Jenny Elers said the recipients of last year’s fundraisers were all community groups, including Te Awamutu Health Shuttle, Te Awamutu Wheelchair Wagon, Sanctuary Mountain, Te Awamutu District Schools Attendance Officer, the Citizens Advice Bureau, iSite, Talos, Te Awamutu Little Theatre, Life Education, Te Awamutu Brass Band and the Te Awamutu Community Cadet Unit.
Call for parade rethink
By Chris Gardner
The cat nobody wanted to be let out of the bag is free. Retailers, already weathering a storm worse than the global financial crisis of nearly two decades ago, take a financial hit every time the Waipā District Council closes roads for a sporting event or Christmas parade.
Te Awamutu councillor and former Te Awamutu Business Chamber chief executive Shane Walsh shone a light on the issue when he called for Waipā District Council to consult more deeply with the community, including with community boards, before bringing road closures to councillors to approve.
“If the parade is a
Saturday the retailers lose revenue,” Walsh told the November council meeting after receiving complaints from Te Awamutu retailers. “The roads are closed, and nobody wants to come into town.”
Te Awamutu Rotary Club received council approval to hold this year’s parade on Saturday, December 6, having switched from a Sunday two years ago.
Club spokesman Chris Kay told The News the club’s position, “at the moment, is that we are not going to engage in any conversation about the parade”.
Showcase Jewellers Te Awamutu owner Kirsty Walker said her business took a substantial hit when
the parade was held on a Saturday as she had to shut the shop for security reasons.
“We are not against the parade, but how about having it on a Sunday when there’s not as many retailers open? We are in talks with the Rotary club and there’s hope that can be achieved.”
Deputy Waipā mayor Jo Davies-Colley joined Walsh and mayor Mike Pettit to mix with the community at the town’s annual craft fair on Saturday.
“The three of us met a lot of people who told us how much they loved living in Te Awamutu and how great it was to see so many people coming into their town for the busy market,” she said. “It was absolutely packed.” She said she understood
that a Saturday morning in Te Awamutu was a busy time for traders.
“Moving it to a Sunday is a good idea. Most shops are shut, and more people are free.”
She said concerns raised during her discussions included the need for increased parking in the Te Awamutu CBD, a Te Awamutu town centre freshen up, too may speed bumps and an increased amount of litter on Te Pahu Road.”
Cambridge Christmas Parade is being organised by the Lions Club of Cambridge on Sunday, December 7.
The club has taken on responsibility for the parade after the closure of the town’s iSight which was
formerly responsible for the annual event.
“Everything is on track,” said project manager Brent Montgomerie.
About 40 volunteers from the Lions club, Rotary Club of Cambridge and the wider community will marshal floats and provide crowd control during the parade.
A day for hats and high tea
By Jesse Wood
More than 50 women wearing hats, had high tea in the heat at Mike and Debbie Glasson’s Ōhaupō property last Thursday.
There were small hats, colourful brims and prim, proper headwear.
The Lawn & Turf owners’ immaculate garden hosted the Te Awamutu and District Memorial RSA Women’s Section general fundraiser.
“It’s great to see you all with your hats on. You all look amazing,” Mike said.
Debbie’s mum Val Phillips had the idea and put it to her fellow women’s group committee members.
“I’ve been part of RSA women’s section for about five years but this is my first year on the committee,” Val said.
“I’ve always wanted to have a garden party. When I lived in Ōtorohanga, we had quite a big section at the back of the house.
“I could always picture tables and umbrellas around there, but we never got around to it.
“It’s so wonderful to have a beautiful day. Many hands made light work. It was lovely.”
First place for the best hat went to Karen Duxfield, Maree Kewish was named second with her little pink number and Loma Sattler placed third.
Spirits were high among the group and they’re keen to make it an annual occasion.
“I would be nice if we could do it again, because people know what it’s about. I think it would be great,” Val said.
“They’ve had the best of everything today.”
Women’s section vice president Lois Knight was overjoyed with how the event and weather turned out.
“It’s been absolutely fabulous and all through one lady. We don’t do things like this today, it’s been special,” Lois said.
“It’s beautiful here and the weather was 10 times better than we expected. It was meant to be.
“It was such a mixed group and they all mixed well. There are people from the garden club, Val’s exercise group and our RSA ladies. We’ve even catered for it ourselves.
“People are welcome to come and join us at the RSA. We have two meetings per month. We’re also there to support the RSA in any way we can.”
Te Awamutu councillor Shane Walsh opened the debate over the timing of Christmas parades
Val Phillips has always wanted to host a garden party.
Photo: Jesse Wood
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ON SHAKY GROUND
Tragic timing
By Janine Krippner
On September 27, 2014, Ontake volcano in Japan produced a phreatic eruption, a steamdriven eruption that does not involve rising magma.
This could have been a relatively small event that wouldn’t capture too much international attention, with Japan being a country that has plenty of active volcanoes. We could have seen footage of ash plumes and pyroclastic flows that would have been quickly forgotten by the next news cycle.
But this eruption happened before noon, when around 340 hikers were on and around the summit.
People who had been nearby reported no noises heard with the start of the eruption. It began with new vents opened and within about 10 seconds a cold and dry pyroclastic flow engulfed people nearby.
One reporting no burns to his skin, but his hair was damaged and chocolate in his backpack melted.
Ballistic ejecta made of older volcanic rock from past eruptions were blasted from the vent, and throughout the eruption it was these that would turn this event into one to be remembered for the worst of reasons. Sadly, 63 people would lose their lives that day, most because of impact when these ballistic rocks landed. Some would never leave the mountain.
There was no warning for the hikers.
It was a calm day and there were no signs at the summit that an eruption was about to take place.
While they can give some warning, sometimes seen in hindsight, phreatic eruptions do not give the usual precursory signals that a magmatic eruption does.
With a magmatic eruption, it is the magma itself rising towards the surface that gives the warning signs.
Phreatic or hydrothermal eruptions occur around the world fairly frequently, but they are difficult to forecast.
Work is being done to better understand the more subtle warning signs that tell steam is pressurising, leading to an explosion. There is more to understand about how the system itself pressurises, and at what point this leads to a dangerous event.
A similar phreatic eruption had occurred in 1979 just before dawn, the first known historical eruption of Ontake. Smaller phreatic eruptions occurred again in 1991 and 2007.
Both the 1979 and 2014 eruptions were similar in nature and in size. There were no fatalities during the earlier eruption, so what makes this more recent one different?
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The ballistic rocks were blown out of the vent at speeds of 145 to 185 metres a second as rapidly expanding steam produced the shallow eruption.
Along with their velocity, the sheer number of ballistics that can be ejected during an eruption is harrowing.
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They can also travel far, with impacts often occurring within hundreds of metres out to kilometres from the vent.
The 2014 eruption occurred on a Saturday, and because of the midday people had reached the wrong place at the wrong time. The event illustrates how the timing of an eruption is an important factor and can be the difference between a small eruption that doesn’t leave behind much of a record, and a tragedy.
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FAITH IN WAIPĀ
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By Karla Rose, Zion Church
As the year draws to a close, amid the chaos of exams, final assemblies, the classic Christmas work do, and the hustle and bustle of Christmas gift purchases, there is, I believe, a desire to finish the year well.
We want to tie up loose ends, finish projects, and close the last chapter of our lives before we step into the promise of a new year.
It’s true that this time of year is hopeful. It’s also true that these final few months of the year often carry the weight of weariness. We see it in our children, their teachers, the checkout operators, our neighbours, and ourselves.
People are hanging on by a thread, working hard to make their way through all the obligations and expectations towards a time when things slow down and they can simply breathe.
In Galatians 6:9, the apostle Paul, a man well acquainted with hard work and difficult situations, encourages his readers not to grow weary in doing good.
This verse is nestled within a chapter of the Bible that instructs believers to be satisfied with the purpose God has for them, not allowing themselves to be distracted or derailed by what they see happening around them.
Believers are called to be responsible for their own behaviour, while not neglecting the care of those around them. He then promises that at the right time, if we don’t give up, that we’ll receive a harvest of blessing. I think that this advice, while thousands of years old, still rings true.
Whether we are at the end of another
difficult year, or at the beginning of a year that is still unknown, we can choose to focus on the things we hold in our own hands, that we have influence over.
We can love our partners and children well, taking joy in family and friends, and letting them know how much we value them.
We can support the people in our circles who have needs that are within our power to meet, even when we know they will never have the ability to reciprocate in measure.
We can dedicate ourselves to our jobs, working diligently, without a thought to whether the people working around us are investing the same effort, but taking satisfaction in the work we’ve completed.
As we finish the year, let’s not only keep doing good but also seek out the things that bring joy to yourself and to others.
Attend events like Tree Awamutu, the Santa Parade, the Christmas Market, visit the houses that light up our town with Christmas decorations, or invite someone to go with you to church.
Support the Lions, and Operation Christmas Hampers. Donate toys for kids who would otherwise miss out at Homebrew, buy local so our small business community can continue providing the services we love.
Do something nice for the teachers and support staff in local schools, or for members of our emergency services. Or simply slow down enough to take a breath before continuing to do good.
Waipā sticks with Wednesdays
By Chris Gardner
Friday will not become the new Wednesday at Waipā District Council this side of Christmas.
The council held its first two meetings of the triennium on a Friday, and councillors voting at the second to follow governance manager Jo Gread’s recommendation to hold four December meetings on a Wednesday.
Good Local Media editor Roy Pilott raised concerns Cambridge News and Te Awamutu News readers would have to wait eight days to read of council decisions in January when the council moved committee and full council meetings from Tuesdays to Wednesdays.
At the last Friday meeting councillors agreed to hold the Strategic Planning and Policy Committee on Wednesday, December 3, the Finance and Corporate Committee and Service Delivery Committee on Wednesday, December 10, and a full council meeting on
Wednesday, December 17. They also agreed to hold the Risk and Assurance Committee on Monday, December 15.
Cambridge ward councillor Roger Gordon asked whether there would be further discussion around the days and frequency of meetings for 2026 as a separate agenda item
Gread said it would be discussed at the December council meeting.
Gordon told The News he was not supportive of the move from Tuesdays to Wednesdays.
“I believe we should treat the newspaper as a partner in our communications, rather than a competitor,” the thirdterm councillor said.
“This term, for instance, we have had a couple of meetings on a Friday. I think that gives quite a good period of time for questions to be asked by councillors and answers to be circulated by staff.”
not rely on websites for information and relied on print media for their information.
Gordon said he would go to December 17 council full meeting with an open mind.
Cambridge mayor Mike Pettit previously told The News Good Local Media’s deadlines were not front of
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Coming to Te Awamutu
Our new clubhouse is on the way – join us for a sneak peak.
Friday 28 & Saturday 29 November, 10am – 2pm. Arvida Whai Mauri Ora, 319 Manaia Road, Te Awamutu.
We’re thrilled to share that construction has begun on our new residents’ clubhouse at Arvida in Te Awamutu. To celebrate, we’re inviting you to come along and see the beautiful plans and visuals for what’s to come, and tour our friendly community.
Our architecturally designed clubhouse will have a large dining area, library, an indoor pool, gym, bowling and croquet green, outdoor fire and bbq area, making it the perfect place for residents to gather and connect.
We currently have a stunning brand new villa priced from $695,000 (licence to occupy). Get in touch to find out more.
Artist Impression
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Briefs…
Marae games
Whakamārama Marae won the Whānau Ki Waenganui Games at Te Awamutu College last weekend. Maungatautari
Marae came second and Rāwhitiroa and Parawera Marae joint third. Aotearoa, Pōhara, Mangatoatoa and Te Kōpua Marae also participated in the longrunning event.
Cat attack
Conservation Minister and Hamilton East MP Tama
Potaka’s announcement that feral cats will now join possums, rats, stoats, weasels, and ferrets on the national target species list has been welcomed by Waipā District Council. District growth and regulatory services group manager Wayne Allan said at present there is no national law for cat management and that limited councils’ ability to respond to public concerns.
In the picture
Te Awamutu photographer Lisa Jones won the portrait category at the recent Waikato A and P Show –then went on to win the supreme champion exhibit award.
Team effort for Nashville sound
By Viv Posselt
Two Waipā talents who are scoring well on the national and international scene are joining forces for a community concert they say will ‘bring Nashville to Te Awamutu.
Husband and wife duo from Kihikihi, Rosie and Blair Shaw - aka Rowdy’s Rose – are partnering for the December 6 concert with country rock bands Te Awamutu-based The DCP (Dan Cosgrove Project).
They have secured funding for the gig through the Waipā District Council’s Creative Communities Scheme.
Rowdy’s Rose are coming at it with several top American awards under their belts. They are three-time nominees for the Josie Music independent singer/songwriter awards held at the Grand Old Opry in Nashville, making the top 12 out of 86,000 worldwide submissions. In 2024 they won the Hugs Radio’s Best New Artist Award in Pennsylvania, and the International Songwriter of the Year at the Who’s Hoo Country Music Awards in Indiana. They also scooped this year’s International Band Single of the Year at the ISSA Awards in Atlanta.
Dan Cosgrove, regarded as one of New Zealand’s top country guitarists, was
crowned ‘Top Musician 2023’ by the Variety Artists Club of New Zealand. When not leading The DCP at festivals, he also heads up New Zealand’s premier AC/DC experience (aka NZ/ DC) and does covers of KISS hard rock numbers.
The upcoming concert at Te Awamutu Intermediate is the second time Rowdy’s Rose will team up with The DCP for a Waipā event. The first was a country rock concert held as part of Cambridge’s Autumn Festival earlier this year.
Both sets of musos have told their stories to The News before. Rowdy’s
Rose launched their music career in the depth of the Covid lockdown, using social media to get themselves noticed. They now homeschool their boys, 11 and 8, to facilitate their travel requirements, and run a handyman business .
Dan Cosgrove teaches music at Hamilton’s Southwell School four days a week and runs his home-based DC Studio from where he records, mixes and produces for musicians around the country.
He’s out and about playing most weekends, either with his own bands or
with the Che Orton Band.
The now-tight Rowdy’s/DCP collaboration is relatively new.
“We kept hearing about this amazing production studio, but it’s only in the past year that we’ve actually worked with Dan,” Rosie said.
“I wish we’d done it before. Our first joint concert in Cambridge was such a massive success that it prompted us to organise this one for Te Awamutu.”
Swelling the talent on the night will be Auckland-based fiddle and piano player Nick Jones, and Pāpāmoa-based pedal steel guitarist/songwriter, Bill Bassett.
Dan Cosgrove and Rosie and Blair Shaw will bring a touch of Nashville to Te Awamutu. Photo: Viv Posselt
Regent mourns O’Brien death
By Jesse Wood
Many Te Awamutu movie lovers
will remember the friendly face of
David Patrick O’Brien at The Regent Theatre’s front counter.
The long serving cashier died in, Auckland on November 1, aged 81.
The Regent Theatre team confirmed the news via their Facebook page.
“With great sadness we remember David O’Brien,” the Facebook post said.
“A talented musician, he played piano, conducted the Talos orchestra, and shared his gift on the organ at the Regent Theatre.
“A kind and well-liked gentleman, David’s music and warmth touched
all who knew him. He will be deeply missed.”
Former colleague Paige Pritchard paid her respects via the comments section. As did many others who remembered David.
“He was so lovely, I remember him getting a custard slice from the bakery as a treat on a fair few of the shifts worked together,” Pritchard said. “Such a lovely man.”
Longtime owner of The Regent Theatre Allan Webb said David spent time in the United Kingdom working in the music and record industry.
He was the first full time, and long-term, manager of Hamilton’s Riverlea Theatre.
David was also a member of Te Awamutu Light Operatic Society
(Talos) at The Woolshed Theatre, playing the piano and conducting the orchestra for their shows.
Webb said David arranged organ concerts at The Regent.
He would play the organ solo or accompany singers and players he had invited to be in the successful shows.
“He loved [world-renowned violinist and conductor] André Rieu and would attend his concerts in Auckland when he played there,” Webb said.
“He was a respected and admired gentleman. He also taught the piano and was always singing. His music will live on in our memories.”
A private service was held on November 12.
Community board monitoring removed
By Chris Gardner
manager Kirsty Downey says enhancing how the council works with community boards remains a priority after a decision not to re-establish the control group monitoring the work.
Councillors agreed not to re-establish the Community Board 2.0 Project Control Group at this month’s council meeting while consideration was given to how best to measure processes, successes and/or failures of operational matters of Community
Governance manager Jo Gread said the council needed to reflect on how the group worked last triennium and see what the best vehicle is going forward.
Downey told The News Community Boards 2.0, introduced in July 2022 following feedback from a representation review in 2021, considered the role of community boards.
“Since then, the project has focused on refreshing how boards work with council, improving governance confidence, and supporting stronger local
participation in decision-making,”
Downey said.
“Key recommendations from the review centred on reaffirming the relationship between council and community boards, renewing delegations to better reflect community needs, and supporting boards to deepen engagement with their communities and mana whenua.
“A number of initiatives were introduced to enhance how council and community boards work together,” Downey said.
Initiatives include earlier engagement with boards on
council projects, community board input on major matters, clearer strategic priorities, enhanced induction and training.
“This work is a priority and is ongoing. A project control group was established to monitor and report on the effectiveness of those initiatives and ways of working.”
“Staff recommended that time be taken to consider whether a project control group or some other mechanism is the most appropriate way to monitor and report on the effectiveness of Community Boards 2.0.” Ange Holt, who was re-elected
Te Awamutu and Kihikihi Community board chair earlier this month, declined to comment on the decision.
Holt underlined frustrations the board felt in trying to advocate for the community when she appeared before the council’s Strategic Planning and Policy Committee in April.
Cambridge Community Board chair Charlotte FitzPatrick said her board welcomed ongoing feedback and evaluation “to ensure we deliver for our community, strengthen what’s working and address what’s not”.
David O’Brien (left) and Allan Webb celebrated 70 years of The Regent Theatre in 2002 with Kate Mauriohoho.
Photo: The Regent Theatre.
Waipā District Council strategy
Boards 2.0.
Sheer delight in the Woolshed
By Jesse Wood
The Woolshed Theatre was at capacity for the full programme to celebrate 50 years of the Te Awamutu Light Operatic Society (Talos) this month.
Life members and past presidents were honoured guests on stage and foundation member Coral Taylor had the honour of cutting the jubilee cake.
Baritone vocalist Rex Bannister “brought the house down” with his rendition of If I Were a Rich Man from Fiddler on the Roof – a lead role he had played twice for the society.
Other highlights included the society’s two singing groups, who chose tracks to perform from 14 Talos shows.
“It was amazing, it couldn’t have been better. We had 50 performers entertaining and we were at capacity audience wise. We had a wonderful time,” president Fiona Miller said.
“The Musical Allsorts and The Woolshed Warblers each performed from seven shows. They had half an hour, and they could do what they liked.
“Everyone loved it. We chose songs from 14 of our most iconic shows, out of 150 plus, including Fiddler on the Roof, Hans Christian Andersen, Oklahoma!, Oliver and White Horse Inn.
“We also had models come out and wear the costumes from those particular shows while we were singing songs.”
Following the groups were three special
items representing other shows, including Bannister’s star performance.
“We had our pantomime Dame, singing a comedy song to represent all the pantomimes that we’ve done over the years. In full Dame dress with wig and squeaky voice,” Miller said.
“We had a duet from Sound of Music. The couple that sang in the show, Sas and Jon Hurst, came back and sang Edelweiss. It was lovely.”
Miller said she was amazed to see the continued support from Te Awamutu.
“We are a community theatre. We’re by the community for the community and if we don’t have their support, we can’t do what we do,” Miller said.
“It’s on us to keep doing things that the community want to come and watch.
“That’s been the big question for every committee over the last 50 years, to choose shows that are relevant, that fit our demographic and our stage.”
The evening concluded with speeches. One was from foundation president Warwick May.
“Warwick told us how it all started. The first show Talos did was called Box Office, someone in the community wrote it,” Miller said.
“Marilyn Waring was the MP at the time. She came to the performance and knew some of the performers. She wrote comments on the programme and Warwick has got that programme. She wrote funny things about her friends involved.
“Warwick waved it around and showed us the programme.”
Talos started in 1975 with 45 peple at the first public meeting and 20 apologies and has
continued to grow. Since 1986 it has had one of the few purpose-built theatres in the area.
“We’ve had lots of changes over the years but the biggest change is the technology. As it is in the whole world,” Miller said.
“From one or two stage lights and maybe a microphone, now we’ve got LED lighting and a state-of-the-art sound desk, lighting desk and a projector for back drops instead of having to paint them.
“At the moment, we’re in really good heart. We’ve got people coming to see the shows and we’ve got people coming out of our ears wanting to be in our shows.
“Our first show next year is Mamma Mia! and we’ve got people lining up already. We’re looking forward to the next 50 years.”
The Musical Allsorts singing a song from the Hans Christian Andersen show. Photo: Emma James
Coral Taylor cuts the 50th Jubilee cake.
Photo: Emma James
The story of Ian Presland
By Meghan Hawkes
Alexander Shaw, a telegraphist lodging at Mr Bridgman’s Puniu Road boarding house, was in bed in the room he shared with Ian Presland, a 19-yearold postal cadet, when around 9.30pm a violent thunderstorm crashed over Te Awamutu.
The first clap extinguished all the electric lights; the second clap, five minutes later, restored
them. Alexander spared a thought for Ian, who was of a somewhat nervous disposition. But Ian was not home, being on one of his occasional nights out. Ian, from Gisborne, had been in Te Awamutu about four months, arriving around June 1921. His post office career had begun in his hometown when he was about 12 starting as a message boy. Later he was transferred to Wellington, Cambridge and then Te
Get Gardening
The temperature is rising and the garden is bursting into life with new growth. Now’s the time to plant your warm-season crops! Beans, basil, corn, melons, and pumpkins thrive when soil temperatures rise. Basil isn't just a great cooking companion with tomatoes, it also helps deter pests. Marigolds are another natural pest deterrent in the vege garden, but will also attract the beneficial pollinators like bees and butterflies. Alstroemerias, pelergoniums, gaura, salvias, and daisies are now available in store and what a great display they are making. Amber Garden Centre is renowned for its tuberous begonia hanging baskets, they have just come into the garden centre, there is limited numbers so don’t miss out. Christmas is just around the corner. Happy gardening!
Awamutu as a telegraph cadet. He was waiting for a transfer back to Gisborne and had been due to leave the previous Saturday, but his successor had not arrived, delaying Ian’s departure.
He had spent some time that evening sorting his letters at the boarding house, later going to Mr Spears’ billiard room where he played and lost two games against Richard Johnston, a railway clerk. After the second game Ian wryly asked Richard “Do you want a good cue?” and handed him his. Ian then said good night and left. At quarter to six the next morning, E
Taylor, another postal cadet, was setting out for work when he came across Ian lying lifeless on the footpath. Constable Rushton and Dr Hall were called, a cursory examination revealing circumstances strongly suggesting a strike by lightning. A short distance away, Edwin Wilson’s house had been struck and a number of bricks dislodged from the chimney and a board stripped from a wall.
The news caused quite a shock at the Gisborne Post Office where Ian was very popular with his comrades. His bright disposition had also made him a favourite with his
mates at Te Awamutu. An inquest found that Ian met an instantaneous death from a lightning strike. He was returned home by train and steamer and buried at Taruheru cemetery, Gisborne.
Back in Te Awamutu a local paper examined the night of the storm under the heading ‘Lightning’s pranks - Its work in Te Awamutu - Little puzzles explained.’
The fuses in Robert Gibson’s house had blown out, mysteriously sending a spiteful jet of flame toward him, despite the electricity not being switched on in his house. The cause, however, had been a direct flash of
Let’s hear your thoughts
By Ange Holt, Kihikihi-Te Awamutu Community Board chair
Local elections are integral to get the right people elected to represent our communities and get the outcomes we want. It was wonderful to see the number of voters increase this year, indicating more interest.
Many thanks for giving each of us your vote. We are privileged to be serving you and are looking forward to achieving positive results on your behalf this triennium.
I am very proud to be back as chair of the community board and to be leading this great team of people who are all very passionate and care deeply about Te Awamutu, Kihikihi and the Kakepuku district.
With three experienced members in Jill Taylor, John Woods and Kane Titchener, new, young, and fresh perspectives from Liam Bullen and strong support for community boards in our councillors Shane Walsh and Dean Taylor, I am hopeful together we will achieve some great community outcomes for you.
Community boards are all about local, with our primary role, advocating to council for our
community.
Each side of the district have a team who can push for the things that matter most to our communities and support those needs. So please feel welcome to contact any of us to support you with any ideas or issues you may have related to council activities. We welcome you to bring your proposals to our meetings or just join us in person or online, as all meetings are streamed live and are also recorded.
Councillors, once elected, are all about Waipā and the bigger picture, so they need to look at the impact of spending and needs across the district.
We had our first meeting on November 12 where we were all sworn in and the chair selected.
We want to get things moving, so are getting together informally to start our strategic planning process this week. We have also attended an initial meet and greet of both community boards and had some training in a number of aspects of our roles.
Local Government has a few quirky rules and regulations we need to understand and abide by!
lightning striking his house.
The storm was one of incredible intensity and Robert’s escape was considered miraculous, the report continued.
‘Death was stalking about in more than one place on that fierce night when the poor young lad Presland was so tragically stricken down and Robert was nearly a second victim.’
Coming up next week will be a presentation to both boards by the group managers from council to outline their works programmes over the next triennium. This will be a great opportunity for us to understand what they do and most importantly how our plans will fit in with what they currently have planned.
This will be followed by our meeting on December 9. Council has a break for Christmas and we will return in February ready to start implementing our plans which will reflect what our community wants.
The next three years will be tough with restrictions around funding and ongoing changes from central government that impact us. I am confident with a solid innovative plan, this great team and your support we can make improvements to the effectiveness of community boards. Have community voices heard at the council table and be part of making Te Awamutu, Kihikihi and Kakepuku even better places to live.
Koi fishing challenge
By Jesse Wood
Predator Free Te Awamutu and Pirongia is encouraging youngsters to catch pest fish for the 2026 Kids’ Koi Carp Challenge.
being in the summer holidays, the carp might be a bit more visible and in higher numbers.”
“The idea is to bring awareness and improve the state of our Mangapiko Stream and Waipā River which run through both the Te Awamutu and Pirongia surrounds,” Carla Innis said.
“The first challenge was in the April school holidays.
It was low key, but the challenge got loads of enthusiasm from Pirongia children.
“Only one Koi was caught but loads of time was spent out there trying.
“Awareness is the goal - having good family times in our natural environment is an added benefit.
The hope is that with this challenge
Children under the age of 16 can post pictures oto the Pirongia Enviro Group Facebook page through to February ahead of a prizegiving at the monthly Pirongia market.
“The challenge was started by Pirongia Enviro Group volunteers.
Predator Free Te Awamutu and Pirongia volunteers actively trap land-based predators such as rats and mustelids in public spaces and promote and support landowners to trap in their own backyard,” Innis said.
“We don’t want eels fished, they are not a sport, but a good reflection of the health of our waterways.
“Get out there, try to catch these pests and have fun.
What you do today will make a difference not just to tomorrow but for years to come,” Innis said.
They are to be protected, but let’s raise awareness of the pest fish in our waterways - Carp, Catfish, Goldfish, Gambusia, Rudd, Trench and Perch.” What makes Koi such a pest? “They suck - literally and figuratively”.
COMMUNITY BOARD VIEW
Toby Rothery with his koi carp catch earlier this year.
Make a splash help shape the future of Karāpiro Lake Domain
Karāpiro Lake Domain is a premier venue for sport, recreation and events. We want to make sure it continues to thrive for locals and visitors alike.
We’ve drafted two plans to guide the domain’s future:
Reserve Management Plan
Masterplan
Your feedback has helped us get this far - now we need you to help fine-tune the details.
Come see us at the domain:
Saturday, December 13, 10am – 1pm KRI Christmas Rowing Regatta
Wednesday, January 14, 11am – 2pm Nga Kaihoe O Aoteroa Waka Ama NZ (Sprint Nationals)
Feedback closes Tuesday, January 20, 2026.
To view the plans and have your say visit waipadc.govt.nz/karapiroreview
Counting down for Christchurch
By Jesse Wood
Special Olympics Te Awamutu recently hosted a swim meet for 100 athletes from 13 North Island clubs in preparation for the Christchurch-based National Summer Games in December.
There was plenty of excitement and many podium finishes for the Te Awamutu team.
Joel Wheddon, 13, participated in his first swim meet. He gained two first places, two seconds and “was super happy about that”, coach Shelley Blair said.
“We had good support again from the Te Awamutu Cadets and Stone Real Estate, who are an annual fixture at our events. They just love coming down,” Shelley said.
“We had some positive responses, not only from the officials, but from clubs. That it was one of the best meets they’ve attended.
“The Freemasons came down and presented ribbons, as did the Te Awamutu Lions. They were just totally overwhelmed with how excited all the athletes were even though they may have got sixth.”
Both groups have donated towards the trip south. Te Awamutu line dancers and the country music group have too.
The cohort of 12 nationals athletes started training on both Saturday and Sunday last month.
“Every nationals year, I start incorporating Saturday mornings, as well as the usual Sunday, to focus on basic techniques, practice our relays, dives, touch and turns,” Shelley said.
“There is an expectation and a trust that the athletes will do extra work in the pool,
walking, aerobics, biking - whatever the case may be - to try and get their fitness up.”
Cambridge’s Keziah Clark is Shelley’s youngest nationals athlete at 21.
“I am excited and a little nervous about the National Summer Games. I enjoy the extra Saturday training and I’m also training twice a week in Cambridge mastering diving and tumble turns,” Keziah said.
“I had my first ever first place at our Te Awamutu swim meet, so I was very proud and excited about that.”
Shelley said Keziah is a very committed athlete, “always giving something new a go with 100 per cent enthusiasm with success”.
“It’s a testament to the work that they’re putting in. When you see someone like Keziah, who’s never got a first before, I know what work she’s been putting in during the week outside of our trainings,” Shelley said.
“She will represent Te Awamutu on stage at the opening ceremony alongside David Smith, carrying the Te Awamutu banner with a whole lot of pride with 1200 other athletes watching.”
Another athlete, Sarah-Jane Hudson is excited and nervous for nationals.
She has also been selected for the 2026 intake of the Special Olympics NZ Athlete Leadership Programme.
“Training is going really well. I go for walks and do water aerobics as well as our trainings on Saturdays and Sundays,” SarahJane said.
“Looking at the results from our Te Awamutu swim meet, I feel like I am on track with where I want to be leading up to nationals.”
Longtime Ōtorohanga resident Jennifer Clark, Peter Crawford, Sarah Griffin, Matthew Smith, Caitlin Thomas, Robert van der Wee, Deshan Walallavita, Jarrod Gilbert and Ella Yarndley make up the rest of the team.
The nationals are the first big event to be hosted in the pool complex at the new Parakiore Recreation and Sport Centre.
“Everybody’s raring to go and pretty excited,” Shelley said.
“I’m fortunate that the two other coaches are very positive and watch in awe as the athletes train with so much purpose.”
Her husband Bruce previously worked for
New Zealand rugby as a coach developer.
“He came away with me in 2009 to my first games.
He’s brought a different but very positive perspective which is really cool.
“Cherie Thompson has been with me since the beginning of the year and I couldn’t have wished for somebody better, her enthusiasm and drive flows onto the team members.
“She wants to learn more, asks questions and she’s got a good rapport with all the swimmers.
“The athletes are our priority - throughout the whole event - supporting them the best we can.”
Unity’s spirited bowls performance
By Viv Posselt
Te Awamutu’s
Unity Collins, known for her success in tandem-cycling as part of the national para-cycling team, swimming and ukulele playing, won a ‘spirit of the game’ trophy at a national blind bowling tournament in Cambridge last week.
The 30-year-old, who is a past Special Olympics medallist and Tough Guy and Gal Challenge veteran, only took up bowling in April.
Her assistant, called a ‘director’ in the world of vision impaired bowling, is her mum Yvonne Collins.
“This was my first bowling tournament… I really enjoyed it,” she said. The annual New Zealand Blind Lawn Bowls Association nationals was held in Cambridge for the first time, and other than a weather wobble for the pairs, was declared an outstanding success.
The event, held at Cambridge Central Bowling Club, saw 27 vision-challenged
players from around the country take part, most of them with directors helping them.
Organiser Kevin Smith from Christchurch, said he was very grateful to the local bowling club for having pulled out all stops to support the tournament.
“This national competition brings together a very special community of players who gather for camaraderie and competition. Two of our players here this year have a real chance of going to the next Commonwealth Games,” he said.
“Members of Cambridge Central have gone above and beyond to support this group … transport, catering, helping with players. We are very grateful to them.”
Smith, who has had a successful bowls career of his own for five decades, has been teaching vision impaired/blind bowlers for 16 years.
He has won several ‘coach of the year’ titles in recognition of the work he put into
championing blind bowls alongside his career as a nurse in the mental health sector.
As last week’s tournament wrapped up in Cambridge, he officially retired from his job in mental health after 53 years.
Cambridge Central club board members Rod Sentch and Alison Winter told The News the event had been a year in the planning, and members had stepped up to help in whatever way they could.
“We welcomed the opportunity to support these players … they have been inspirational,” Sentch said.
The event had some great moments. Three birthdays were celebrated, among them newly-minted 79-year-old Sue Curran.
The Hamilton-based athlete became New Zealand’s then oldest Commonwealth Games athlete in Birmingham in 2022 – Kevin Smith was there at the time. Curran has also won at several previous Commonwealth Games events.
From left, David Smith, Matthew Smith, Ella Yarndley and Deshan Walallavita are raring to go to Christchurch.
Unity Collins, pictured with her parents Yvonne and Ross, with the trophy she was awarded for exemplifying the spirit of the games.
TE AWAMUTU CLINIC Mahoe St | 07 872 0004
Discover our range of Case IH & New Holland model tractors, ride-on toys, ice boxes, merchandise and much more...
CHRISTMAS PARADE
PARADE CHRISTMAS
Get into the festive spirit and shop local between 1st – 7th December for you chance to WIN amazing prizes!
Simply make a purchase at participating retailers during the week leading up to the Rotary Christmas Parade and you’ll receive an entry ticket for the prize draw.
Christmas treats all donated by our wonderful local businesses.
Shop at any of these participating retailers
Boss Mums Fitness
Te Awamutu Photographics
Bed Bath & Beyond
Campbell Lane
Little Bo-Peep
Strawbridges
Health 2000
Matthews Eyecare
Stitchin’ Stuff
Spark Te Awamutu
Noel Leeming
Heathcotes
Te Awamutu Pharmacy
Kids Collection
The Birdcage
Red Kitchen
Team Seven
Showcase Jewellers
Sanders Pharmacy
Narrativ
Te Awamutu
LAVENDER FARM
We invite you to come and visit our lavender farm – enjoy walking through rows of lavender and take a piece of our farm home with you as we have quality products for sale in our gift shop, ranging from oils and soaps to Lavender Honey and Lavender ice cream! You will not be disappointed, flowers blooming now.
Online shopping is also available www.alphralavender.co.nz
Ninety Nature – Premium New Zealand Lavender Skincare Made with premium Alphra farmed and grown Lavender right here in New Zealand, Ninety Nature offers an affordable yet premium skincare range crafted for radiant, healthy skin. Wawata Skincare – Caring for Little Ones & Mums Created in Aotearoa New Zealand, Wawata Skincare was born from the desire to care for the most delicate skin — that of babies and children. The name “Wawata”, drawn from te reo Māori, carries the meaning of dreams and hopes, echoing a vision of gentleness, safety, and a bright future for every little one.
We will be open 7:00am-8:30pm every day throughout the Christmas and New Year period
Caci Te Awamutu
Market Street, Te Awamutu
Across 1. Badger (6)
5. Boil gently (6)
8. Headgear (3)
9. Sell door-to-door (6)
10. Enjoy greatly (6)
11. Counterfeit (4)
13. Caribou (8) 14. Scene of an event (5) 15. Spoil (2,3) 19. Timetable (8)
Last week
21. Kill (4)
22. Pour out (6)
23. Opaque (6)
25. Primate (3)
26. Take care of (6)
27. Temporarily hired (6)
2. Mediocre (colloq) (7) 3. Count (3) 4. Fortified wine (6)
5. Narrow channel of the sea (6) 6. Tuneful (9) 7. Occur as a result (5) 12. High-spirited (9) 16. Delicate (7) 17. Stringed instrument (6) 18. Wobble (6) 20. Statement of beliefs (5) 24. Jog (3)
Across: 1. Odium, 4. Scenic, 7. Ill, 8. Appear, 9. Abduct, 10. Wretched, 12. Rant, 13. Superb, 15. Rancid, 16. Hiss, 17. Sorcerer, 19. Starve, 20. Pedlar, 22. Cue, 23. Scorch, 24. Loose.
Down: 1. Opportunistic, 2. Ice, 3. Mirth, 4. Slander, 5. Endurance, 6. Inconsiderate, 11. Treasurer, 14. Beseech, 18. Repel, 21. Duo.
BHGZOBSULPHURNFURZ PQCNIRIDIUMBZINCPQ ALEADDLIBISMUTHMOJ
LXJZNNVRCHROMIUMLU LXZIOREOEBROMINEOR
AFYRRWRNRUBIDIUMNA DLOXYNINMMNAEMXRIN IBWBDRAUMERCURYAUI UJRGONIRCGKIOMTDMU MIYLOLIOSASOLPIOXM CRHBELMJDELSXFPNIB ACRHEUDVNINCIYTEKA
UAGKIZOGXUNIILGIRR CPCDOSAUPYBECUIENG CIOFKMPLUTONIUMCNO NHLITHIUMSODIUMCON RALUMINIUMNGYINEON
ENJOY THE THINGS YOU LOVE
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.
with Jan Bilton
Breaking Bread
Baking powder gives rise to perfect bakes. It’s a combination of baking soda (sodium bicarbonate), cream of tartar, and a filler such as cornflour or rice flour.
When mixed with a liquid in a bake, this raising agent releases carbon dioxide, and the rising of the dough commences. More carbon dioxide is released when heated, preventing the bake from becoming a brick. The filler helps control the rising speed, making the finished bake predictable.
Baking powder breads, or quick breads, are easy to prepare. Yeast-raised breads, which usually do not contain baking powder, are time-consuming and not something one would normally whip up for morning tea.
Butter is the traditional emulsifier (fat) in these quick breads. However, oil can be a substitute for butter. One advantage of using oil is that you don’t have to ‘soften’ it first.
When substituting oil for butter, about 20 per cent less oil is required either by weight or measure. The texture may be a little different, but it is acceptable.
Tip: New Zealand recipes use level metric measures. A heaped tablespoon of baking powder in a recipe could change a cake’s texture, flavour and height.
Banana & Pineapple Loaf
The drained pineapple juice can be reserved for use in an icing for the loaf.
3/4 cup firmly packed brown sugar
2 medium eggs, lightly beaten
160g mashed banana (about 3/4 cup or 1 large banana)
1/2 cup sunflower oil
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla essence
1 1/2 cups self-raising flour
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1 1/2 teaspoons mixed spice
75g shelled pistachio nuts, chopped
225g can crushed pineapple, well drained (reserve the juice)
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Lightly oil a 4-cup loaf pan. Line the base with baking paper. Using an electric mixer preferably, beat the brown sugar and eggs until light and fluffy. Add the mashed banana, oil and vanilla. Mix well.
Sift the flour, baking soda and spice together and fold into the banana mixture. Add the pistachios and pineapple. Pour into the loaf pan.
Bake for 45-55 minutes or until a skewer inserted in the centre comes out clean. Cool for 10 minutes in the pan then turn out onto a wire rack.
The top can be dusted with icing sugar or iced.
Cheese Bread
Fabulous served with soup or a salad. Or toasted for breakfast.
1 small onion, diced
50g butter
2 cups plain flour
3 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup grated tasty cheese
1 egg, lightly beaten
1/2 cup milk
1/4 cup yoghurt
Preheat the oven to 200°C. Spray a 20cm x 10cm loaf pan preferably with rice bran oil. Place the onion in a microwave jug with 1 teaspoon of the butter. Cover and microwave for 3040 seconds until the onion is limp. Sift the flour, baking powder and salt into a medium-large bowl. Grate the remaining butter into the flour mixture then rub in until smooth. Add the cheese and onion.
Beat the egg, milk and yoghurt together in a bowl. Mix into the flour until just combined. If it’s a bit stiff add a little more
milk. Spoon into the loaf pan. Sprinkle with a little more cheese if preferred.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, until a skewer inserted in the centre comes out clean. Best served warm and sliced. Or reheat in the microwave or toaster.
SpiceD Pumpkin Bread
You need to purchase about 1kg of dry butternut or crown pumpkin. Ensure the mashed pumpkin is fairly dry.
2 cups mashed pumpkin
1 1/2 cups sugar
1 cup each: water, canola oil
4 eggs, lightly beaten
3 1/4 cups plain flour
2 teaspoons each: baking soda, ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon each: salt, baking powder
1/2 teaspoon each: ground nutmeg, ground cloves
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Lightly oil and flour two 23cm x 12cm loaf pans or similar.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin, sugar, water, canola oil and eggs. Beat until well mixed. Sift the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, salt, baking powder, nutmeg and cloves into a separate bowl. Stir to combine. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the pumpkin mixture, beating until smooth. Evenly divide the batter between the two pans. Bake for 45-55 minutes or until a skewer inserted into the centre comes out clean. Cool for 10-15 minutes. Remove from the pans. Serve sliced. Makes 2 loaves suitable for freezing.
Banana & Pineapple Loaf
Cheese Bread
Citizens Advice Bureau Te Awamutu
2/213 Alexandra St, Te Awamutu
(Inside the Ray White Arcade)
Phone: 07 871 4111 or 0800 367 222
Text: 021 247 0304 teawamutu@cab.org.nz
NOTICE OF TEMPORARY ROAD CLOSURE
Schedule 10, Local Government Act 1974
Waipā District Council will close the following road(s) at the following period(s) to ordinary vehicular traffic for the Rotary Te Awamutu Christmas Parade.
Date: Saturday, 6 December 2025
Roads: Selwyn Lane-whole Street Gorst Avenue-whole Street
Time: 7am to 1:30pm
Roads: Mahoe St - from Churchill St to Selwyn Lane
Alexandra St - from Mutu/Rewi St to Sloane St Churchill St - from Mahoe St to Squash Club
Time: 8am to 1pm
Roads: Arawata St - from Mahoe St to Alexandra/Sloane Sts
Sloane St - from Arawata/Alexandra Sts to 35 Sloane St Mahoe St - from Arawata St to Selwyn Lane
Time: 10:30am to 1pm
There will be no detours in place during the temporary road closure. Access for emergency vehicles will be permitted in the event of an emergency.
Steph O’Sullivan
CHIEF EXECUTIVE
Ruapuha Uekaha Hapū Trust (Hauturu East 8)
Early Childhood Education (ECE), Primary, Intermediate & Secondary Grants 2026 School Year Education Grant Round
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.
Notice of herbicide spraying
Department of Conservation advises that under Resource Consent 124871 spraying of pest plants growing in aquatic locations will commence over the next three months.
Pest plants to be sprayed are listed in the Regional Pest Management Plan and include (but are not limited to): royal fern, alligator weed, golden dodder, crack & grey willow, mexican water lily, spartina and yellow flag iris. Herbicides to be used are haloxyfop, metsulfuron-methyl, glyphosate and triclopyr. Application method is location dependent and may be by helicopter, gun and hose, mistblower or knapsack.
Operational areas are spread throughout the district and include (but are not limited to):
• Lakes Whangape, Rotongaro, Rotongaroiti, Hakanoa, Rotomanuka & Ruatuna
• Whangamarino & Toreparu wetland
• Kawhia Harbour
Spraying is weather dependent and will occur during daylight hours on any day, including weekends but excluding public holidays. For more information or to request to be notified call 0800 ASK DOC. Occupiers who have already requested to be notified will be contacted prior to spraying. For additional notification or further information, please email the Waikato Operations Manager Niwha Jones waikato@doc.govt.nz
RAFFLE RESULT
Rosetown Lions Club of Te Awamutu Craft Fair: 1st No 375 Natalie 2nd No 128 Alison 3rd No 201 Clem Xmas Cake No 321 Cheryl
All winners notified.
All funds raised donated to the Te Awamutu Fire Brigade. Thank you for your support. Secretary J. Elers.
TE AWAMUTU CONTINUING EDUCATION
Wednesday 3rdDecember2025
10am
Speaker: Al Gillespie
Topic: WORLD EVENTS
Everybody Welcome More info phone 07 870 3223
Notice of Referendum on the Proposal to Close the Drinking Water Component of the Arohena Rural Water Supplies
Ōtorohanga District Council has resolved to work towards closing down the drinking water component of the three Arohena Water Supplies, Kahorekau, Huirimu and Taupaki.
Part of the process requires council to hold a referendum on the proposal in accordance with the Local Electoral Act 2001.
On that basis a referendum of residents and ratepayers within the Arohena Rural Water Scheme area will be conducted under the First Past the Post (FPP) electoral system, by postal vote to consider the following proposal.
I support the proposal to close the drinking water component of the Kahorekau, Huirimu, and Taupaki water supplies (known as the Arohena Rural Water Scheme). Those supplies to then be operated as stock water only water supplies.”
Voter packs will be mailed to residents and ratepayers enrolled within the Arohena Rural Water Scheme area. The voting period for this referendum will be from Friday 30 January to Tuesday 3 March 2026. The referendum result will be binding. Council will use the final poll result to determine whether to continue with formal closure action. It should be noted that even if a positive response to the referendum is obtained, water will continue to be supplied for farm stock and other agricultural purposes.
Inspection of Electoral Roll
The preliminary electoral roll to be used for the referendum will be available for inspection during office hours at the Ōtorohanga District Council office, 17 Maniapoto Street, Ōtorohanga from Monday 24 November to Monday 22 December 2025.
Residential electors may enrol or amend their enrolment details on the electoral roll:
• Online at www.vote.nz
• By texting your name and address to 3676 to get a form sent to you
• By calling 0800 36 76 56 to ask for a form to be sent to you
• By email request to enquiries@elections.govt.nz
Applications for registration as a ratepayer elector are to be made on the non-resident ratepayer elector enrolment form available from the Ōtorohanga District Council office or by downloading from www.otodc.govt.nz/about-council/elections/voters. Updates to the preliminary roll close at 4pm on Monday 22 December 2025.
Inspection of Proposal Information
Copies of the following documents about the proposed closure will be available for inspection during office hours from Monday 24 November to Monday 22 December 2025 at the Ōtorohanga District Council office, 17 Maniapoto Street, Ōtorohanga.
1. the views of The Water Services Authority – Taumata Arowai
2. documents relating to the proposal prepared by Ōtorohanga District Council staff
3. a map of the area to be subject to the referendum.
The above documents can also be viewed online at engage.otodc.govt.nz/closure-of-arohena-rural-water-scheme Warwick Lampp Electoral Officer – Ōtorohanga District Council Ph 0800 666 048 iro@electionz.com
PIRONGIA
Pirongia Community Centre, Crozier St Sunday, November 30 9am - 1pm
Last Sunday of every month
Email jim1@xtra.co.nz or ph Jim 027 366 5842
CALL FOR TRUSTEE
The Waipa Community Facilities Trust have a current board vacancy and are calling to the public for registrations of interest for a new Trustee.
The Charitable Trust was established to enhance the health and well-being of Waipa District communities by promoting the effective and efficient provision, development and operation of community facilities (Te Awamutu Events Centre) and Perry Aquatic Centre) and programmes throughout the District.
The position is voluntary and trustees are expected to attend 11 meetings per year, as well as the Trust AGM. Please send your CV and cover letter to the Secretary ruby@offsiteadmin.co.nz
Applications close Friday December 19th 2025.
TE AWAMUTU OPEN HOMES
FIRST NATIONAL
Sunday 30 November 7
News/Editorial
Roy Pilott editor@goodlocal.nz 027 450 0115
Mary Anne Gill maryanne@goodlocal.nz 021 705 213
Viv Posselt viv@goodlocal.nz 027 233 7686
Chris Gardner chris@goodlocal.nz 027 231 7007
Advertising Director
Janine Davy janine@goodlocal.nz 027 287 0005
Owner/Publisher
David Mackenzie david@goodlocal.nz
Office/Missed Deliveries 07 827 0005 admin@goodlocal.nz
Teacher Aide Vacancy ( xed term for 2026)
We’re Hiring! Part-Time Teacher Aide Extraordinaire Hours: 9:00am – 12:30pm, Monday to Friday Location: The fabulous Pāterangi School
Are you the kind of human who can spot a child’s superpower before they even know they have one?
Do you have the patience of a saint, the exibility of a yoga instructor, and the sense of humour required to work in a school where no two days ever look the same?
If yes… we want YOU!
We’re on the lookout for a warm, empathetic, fun-loving Teacher Aide with a special knack for supporting neurodiverse learners. Someone who celebrates di erences, understands big feelings, and can turn tricky moments into triumphs.
You’ll be joining a team who values laughter, initiative, great communication, and people who pitch in before being asked. If you can build trust with tamariki, work alongside teachers like a superhero sidekick, and keep cool during small storms (both literal and emotional)… then you’ll t right in.
We offer:
• A supportive, friendly sta room (we make good co ee, promise!)
• Kids who will adore you
• A workplace where your strengths genuinely make a di erence If this sounds like your perfect morning gig, send me your CV and a short cover letter to:
Carol-Lynn Hill (Principal), principal@paterangi.school.nz (applications to arrive before 1/12/2025)
Join us—your next adventure starts at Pāterangi!
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CLEAVE, Garry Russell – 6.2.1952 - 23.11.2025.
Passed away after a brave battle with cancer. Loved partner of Glennis, father to Nicola & Chris, David & Rhona, cherished stepdad to Monica & Shaun. Poppa to Lucas, Margo, and Aggie. Son of Doug & Margaret Cleave. Brother to Denise & John.
“He’s saddled up his horse, for one last ride, a cowboy now in Heaven, a cowboy to the end”
A celebration of Garry’s life will be held at Alexandra House Chapel, 570 Alexandra St, Te Awamutu on Saturday, 29th November 2025 at 1pm. The service will be livestreamed please email office@teawamutufunerals. co.nz for the link. In lieu of flowers please make a donation to Hospice or the Cancer Society. All communications to the Cleave family, PO Box 137, Te Awamutu 3840.
Te Awamutu Funeral Services, FDANZ
THOMAS, Alfred William (Fred) – Passed away suddenly surrounded by his loving family on 19th November 2025, aged 79 years. Loving and protective husband of Jolene. Cherished father and fatherin-law of Anthony, Shane & Dean, Brett & Rachel, Brenda & Lee. Adored grandfather of Caitlin, Micheal, and Alex. In accordance with family wishes a private service has been held. All communications to the Thomas family, PO Box 137, Te Awamutu 3840.
Te Awamutu Funeral Services, FDANZ
Te Awamutu Funeral Services, FDANZ
ANSO, Martin John –Passed away peacefully
Nov 2025 aged 88 years. Much loved husband of Lyn, father of Kathy, Jenni, Jocelyn, Anthony, Vivienne and Martin. Grandpa to Olivia, Lexi, Ryan, Daniel and Luke. A private family service has been held in Te Awamutu. All communications to the Anso family, PO Box 137, Te Awamutu 3840.
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