The Lions Club of Ruawai held an eightkilometre fun run, walk and cycle along part of the Ruawai stopbank supported by club representatives from …
Pool solution could be a new trust
The Kauri Coast Community Pool opens for the 2025 season on December 12, and this late date, along with a …
u by Paul Campbell
There is a revitalisation underway at The Kauri Museum as a refreshed board of trustees seeks a new administration and management role to help counter a sharp decline in attendance revenue.
The last appointed museum director, Dr Jason Smith has left the position after first taking leave of absence to contest the October Kaipara mayoral election. As a former mayor he was pipped at the post in vote counting. He told the Lifestyler: “I have moved on from the Kauri Museum and I am seeking new opportunities.”
A marked fall in visitor numbers as well as other external influences, including tourism, the economy and last year’s long closure of the Brynderwyn highway, have impacted museum revenues.
The chair of the trust board, Hinurewa te Hau, says it has recently reshaped the leadership structure and is now recruiting a general manager — operations.
“This role is focussed on supporting our staff and volunteers, strengthening dayto-day operations, and leading the next
stage of the museum’s development,” she said. “The role is advertised, and we are hopeful of attracting strong candidates from within Northland, the wider region and nationally.
“Following our November AGM, we’re also pleased to welcome three new trustees. Dr Jonathan Palmer, who brings expertise in environmental systems, sustainability and long-term climate thinking, Stephanie Spraggon, bringing education sector leadership, commercial and operational capability, and Grace Le Gros, who is mana whenua, and brings governance and financial expertise, strengthening the museum’s cultural grounding at board level.
“They join our existing trustees Philip Ashton, Anna Curnow and Amanda Bennett, alongside myself. Together, the board brings a strong mix of cultural,
commercial and community leadership as we move into this next phase.
“The museum, like many community institutions, has navigated a number of operational and financial challenges. These appointments are part of a deliberate reset, bringing fresh capability, strong governance thinking, and practical experience into the boardroom.
“As part of the recent organisational review and restructure, the director role concluded. We acknowledge Dr Jason Smith’s leadership and the work he carried out, and we wish him well. Right now, the board’s focus is very much on looking after our people, staff and volunteers, strengthening our systems and internal capability, keeping visitor numbers strong through exhibitions, events and storytelling, and building longterm financial sustainability.”
u by Andy Bryenton
The invasive gold clam has spread from Waikato to Taranaki, traversing 200km and making the threat of an incursion in Kaipara more realistic.
The discovery of the pest species in Lake Rotomana, by the Taranaki lake’s boating ramp, spurred debate in Kaipara last week. Ric Parore, one of the recently empanelled committee governing the Taharoa Domain, commented to media that powered vessels should face a swift ban. Fellow committee member Sonny Nesbit concurred, as did members of the wider public.
“As a former undersecretary of biosecurity, and a nine-year parliamentary member of sustainable fisheries protocols, I strongly support the case presented by Ric Parore,” said former MP for the region Ross Meurant in a missive on this subject.
The Northland Regional Council has two plans in motion with the Kaipara District Council to combat the threat. The first, already underway when legal advice was sought by the KDC in June, would close the lakes to powered craft under a controlled Area Notice (CAN). The KDC’s legal advice was that this is the correct way to enact closure. Biosecurity New Zealand has not yet issued a CAN, and
The second plan involves the urgent installation of a controlled gate to restrict access to Kai Iwi Lakes. Only vessels approved as gold clam safe would gain access. The NRC is seeking approval to install this monitored gate at the Lake Taharoa boat ramp. They will cover the $40,000 bill, but seek KDC support to undertake ongoing monitoring and maintenance of the gate.
u by Paul Campbell
The Lions Club of Ruawai held an eight-kilometre fun run, walk and cycle along part of the Ruawai stopbank supported by club representatives from Pukekohe and Papakura to raise community funds that will go to the regional rescue service.
Ruawai Lions president Beverley Pullar says she looks forward to seeing the event grow in 2026 with the proceeds destined for a deserving charity. In this case, donating $1,000 to the Northern Rescue Helicopter service as it prepares for its busy summer holiday period.
Beverley says “supporting the choppers is a no-brainer, given they fly around 100 missions per annum throughout Kaipara alone.
“We have supported the service before, and we will do it again, because we can’t do without them. We see them around Ruawai and the Kaipara throughout the year, and we know how critical they are to helping people in their time of need and saving lives,” says Beverley.
“So, when you think about a cause to support that benefits our rural communities, backing an air ambulance operation that has been saving lives in Northland since 1988 makes total sense.”
The service’s two Sikorsky helicopters are fast closing on 1,000 has confirmed that it has received public correspondence opposing such measures.
The KDC was briefed on the issue last week, and NRC held their own meeting on the subject in Dargaville as well, ahead of this week’s final council meeting of the year. ¢
missions for the year and rely heavily on public donations. “What the engineers, pilots and paramedics do for us all day and night, every day of the year is very special. They do it in all types of weather. They don’t judge and they are there for all our friends and family. We are so lucky to have a service like this in Northland.”
Northern Rescue’s Steve Macmillan joined the event. “Kaipara has been an absolute champion of a district raising funds for us over the decades, and it is a privilege to be invited to take part in the run — though it did get a bit tiring near the end!” ¢
u by Natalie Robinson, WRMK Lawyers
It’s that time of year again when families gather, the roast lamb is on, and someone inevitably brings up the weather, politics — or perhaps worse — the future of the farm.
Christmas might not seem like the right time to tackle farm succession planning, but for many farming families, it’s the only time of year when everyone’s actually sitting around the same table. If you can survive a heated debate about who overcooked the ham, you can probably handle a conversation about who’s taking over the herd.
Succession planning is one of those topics that too often sits in the ‘too hard basket’. With rural property prices still high, it can be difficult for the next generation to buy out siblings at full market value.
The first step is working out what ‘success’ looks like. For some, that means keeping the farm in the family; for others, it’s ensuring mum and dad can retire comfortably while giving the kids a fair go. The trouble is, every family member’s idea of success can be different. Will dad ever really want to hand over the reins?
Does mum dream of a house in town? Can junior and his spouse work alongside the older generation without world war three breaking out?
• Despite the complexities, most families share similar goals:
• Keeping the family business going for the next generation
• Ensuring the retiring generation has a secure income
• Keeping farm debt at a manageable level
• Treating all children fairly, whether they stay on the farm or not
There’s no one-size-fits-all formula, but there are plenty of practical tools that can make succession smoother.
Some families release capital by selling off unused assets, subdividing land or cashing in shares. Others create offfarm investments or use life insurance to balance inheritances. Graduated takeover plans, like sharemilking or
leasing, can help a child ease into ownership while still providing income to mum and dad.
Company structures are another good option. They make it easier to transfer ownership over time, bring formal decisionmaking to the table, and ensure everyone gets a voice, without turning Sunday lunch into a board meeting. Trusts can also provide protection from relationship property claims and keep assets secure for future generations.
Whatever the structure, communication is the real key. Transparency and fairness go a long way in preventing family fallouts. Independent valuations, clear expectations, and regular discussions, ideally before tempers or Christmas spirits run high, are essential.
Finally, don’t forget the tax implications. Livestock and machinery often have book values far below market value, which can lead to big tax bills on transfer.
Before making any moves, talk to your accountant and lawyer — they’ll help you navigate the numbers.
So this Christmas, once the crackers are pulled and the trifle’s gone, it might be time for the most important family conversation of all: the future of the farm. When you’re ready for some professional advice to help you along the way, WRMK Lawyers’ experienced rural law team will be happy to assist you. Merry Christmas! ¢
u by Andy Bryenton
The Kauri Coast Community Pool opens for the 2025 season on December 13, and this late date, along with a report indicating that remedial maintenance is overdue, has spurred a vote on changing ownership of the asset.
Following debate on this topic in February, Sport Northland was granted one more year managing the pool, a task they delegated to Community Leisure Management (CLM). Their one year, $480,000 contract runs out on June 30 2026.
With this date approaching, the matter is now tabled for action by the current Kaipara District Council, and a series of reports have painted a grim picture of the cost, upkeep and management of the pool.
Calls by the previous council to explore a CCO-like, trust-based operational model have returned under the tenure of the new mayor, and his deputy, who was instrumental in the original community trust that operated the pool in its early days. This group did so successfully, until the lack of a Licence To Occupy from the then-incumbent council compromised their effectiveness. This week a vote to take back the pool will be tabled, and information came at last week’s briefing supporting a change.
“The Kauri Coast Community Pool Trust used to run it, and they ran it effectively,” opined councillor Gordon Lambeth, when the issue was first debated under the previous council. “It’s going to break this community if it’s closed.”
Amotto Consultancy Ltd presented a report showing that the state of the facility is in decline. Some features of the pool complex, such as a splash pad for children to play on, have not been operational for more than a decade. More parts of the pool complex received a ‘poor’ or ‘very poor’ assessment than a positive one in the Amotto report.
in an emergency chemical accident is not working.
Neither Sport Northland or CLM profit from their operation of Dargaville’s pools. In fact, CLM made a net loss for the 2023–2024 season of $68,949.09, with Sport Northland losing roughly a tenth of this sum in the same period.
Brett Young, of Community Asset Solutions, who scrutinised pool operations in 2024–2025 by council request, said at the time “there’s a lot of cost spread across their unit delivery. However, I would suggest that there are a few costs in there that are subsidised across their network, across the country, not just across Northland. If it were a more localised model, there would not be that level of indirect cost.”
A vote on possible community trust ownership, or the KDC running the pool themselves, is due this week. ¢
Most tellingly, the filter media, a granulated substance like sand in texture, inside the pool’s filtration system has not been changed since 2009. It is supposed to be changed every seven years. Automated chlorineadditive systems to keep the water clear are broken and disconnected, and the chlorine tank is leaky. The shower used
u by Andy Bryenton
Previous plans to reinstate Dargaville’s town hall precinct included the removal of the leaky, 1990s annexe, and the recladding of the 1950s-era war memorial hall, but new evidence has led to the suggestion to councillors to demolish the entire complex.
The town hall’s degradation began with documented evidence of water ingress in 2017, leading to the shutdown of parts of the annexe and a steady decline, which was exacerbated when Cyclone Gabrielle breached watertightness over the stage in 2023. Councillors had recommended the demolition of the annexe in 2020.
Successive council administrations did not instigate remedial works, and the last Kaipara District Council administration was faced with a multimillion-dollar bill
were initially slated to be saved. In July this year, at a meeting where a vote was passed to rescope the project, concerns were raised about the condition of the war memorial hall and conference room, with reference to holes in the ceiling visible from outside, rooftop gutters sprouting foliage and doors open between the hall and the condemned annexe.
The report, by building consultants Cove Kinloch, suggests that a full roof replacement of the 1950s hall will
to demolish the asbestos-contaminated and mouldy annexe. Councillors and consulted public groups identified issues, with plans drawn up for the recladding and redesign of the complex, and late in 2025 a vote was taken to rescope and redesign the project.
Now, with the need for a new insanitary building notice, a report has been tabled by council staff which makes for grim reading. This regards the condition of the leaking annexe, as well as the 1950s hall and adjoining conference room which
also need to be added to the scope of works.
‘The defects present in 2017 generally remain, without intervention’, says their detailed analysis. ‘Large volumes of moisture have been entering the annexe circulation spaces and town hall changing room spaces since at least 2017.
‘Internal degradation in these areas is major, with moisture damage, decay and mould. The town hall and conference room defects were less severe in 2017 and 2025, but have allowed ongoing
minor moisture into the wall as well as limited areas of the ceiling throughout that period.’
The conclusion, tabled at last week’s council briefing by the KDC’s Bryan Hagan, Samantha McKeown and Glynis McCarthy was as follows:
‘It is unclear if the option still exists to complete the original project plan to demolish the annexe and reclad the Wairoa Hall. In its current state, the Wairoa Hall needs considerable repair work to
cladding, windows, wall and ceiling linings internally to enable comfortable use and is nearing the end of its repairable life.’
A new facility is estimated to cost in the vicinity of $5 million, well above the current budget for the project. With remediation now requiring a reroofing of the hall, the cost of a knock-down rebuild is estimated as nearly equally affordable, and with less unknowns. ¢ Next — What the solution might look like
u by Andy Bryenton
A summary by consultants White Associates, dated November 11 2025, has informed the Kaipara District Council that the new total cost for remediating the Dargaville town hall precinct is likely to exceed $4.1 million, while a complete new build is only slightly more costly, at $4.8 million.
“I feel like I’m going to cry, actually. I had no idea that the hall was in that state,” said councillor Nathan. “I’m a little bit disappointed to be fair. I’m a newly elected councillor finding that that’s the state of our taonga.”
Deputy mayor Gordon Lambeth said that “we need to be realistic with this. Whenever we renovate a building there is always a labour component, which blows the budget out way beyond what a new build is.”
‘Staff recommend removing the recladding of the Wairoa Hall from the scope of the current consented plans and continue with the annexe demolition and municipal chamber reinstatement to prevent further issues impacting the chambers arising from the ongoing deterioration of the annexe,’ says a report by a triumvirate of KDC management, Bryan Hagan, Samantha McKeown and Glynis McCarthy, presented to councillors last week.
There’s another consideration on top of the price tag; the fate of the neighbouring, heritage-listed 1923 municipal chambers. This building currently houses the Dargaville Arts Association and the Anzac Theatre, Dargaville’s community cinema. With decay, leaks and mould from the annexe reportedly having a detrimental effect on the 1950s war memorial hall, demolishing the annexe to save the municipal chambers was recommended by KDC staff.
Making the demolition of the annexe and the protection of the municipal chambers a separate project could unlock other benefits, too. Not least of these is the scope for funding, which might not otherwise be available to the KDC for other building work.
‘Given the community-focussed nature of the activities in the building, the heritage value of the building and required heritage compliance of the reinstatement work, KDC has sought external funding for
reinstatement construction work by way of a grant application to Lottery Community Facilities administered by the Department of Internal Affairs,’ read the tripartite council report.
A new fire exit and fire safety measures, new internally-accessible toilets and some air-conditioning upgrades would see this century-old building fit for purpose, securing the fate of the cinema and the numerous other clubs and activities supported by the space. The larger rebuild next door will have to be
agreed on by the KDC. “So we have to decide what our best solution is. We have to accept that there are serious issues there, and make the best tradeoff,” said councillor Jepson.
“We need to fix this. It’s going to fall permanently on our council to make some bold decisions and go ahead with them,” said mayor Larsen.
A vote on the initial scope of a demolition and rebuild is coming this week, with more details and a potential public consultation in the new year. ¢
u by Andy Bryenton
The coalition government has proposed another hard-hitting change to local government this week; a rates rise cap, which has met with a mixed response.
“The bottom line is that councils need to be focussed on the must-do, not the nice-to-do stuff,” said prime minister Christopher Luxon last week. “You can’t have inflation at three per cent and rates going up, up over 12 per cent. That’s just not acceptable.”
The Kaipara District Council brought in some of the nation’s lowest rates rises for 2025, at just over eight per cent. This would still be more than double the amount MP Simon Watts says could be the upper limit of the cap.
“Analysis suggests a target range of two to four per cent per capita, per year. This means rates increases would be limited to a maximum of four per cent,” Watts said. “A minimum increase is necessary, so councils can continue to provide essential services like rubbish collection, council roads maintenance and the management of parks and libraries.”
The cap will apply to all sources of rates; general rates, targeted rates and uniform annual charges. However, it will exclude water charges and other nonrates revenue like fees and charges. Opponents of the scheme have pointed out that this could mean that user-pays fees and charges are on the way, or on the way up, for using amenities like boat ramps, sports fields, libraries and pools.
There’s also been a response from civic councils around the country saying that such a cap ignores the prime drivers of rising council costs. These are inflation, which heavily impacts the number one council expenses, roading and infrastructure maintenance, and regulatory changes imposed by the same government now proposing the rates cap scheme. ¢
The Church of the Nazarene Dargaville is coming together to bless the community with its Christmas Lunch on December 25, from 11am to 2.30pm.
Celebrating the birth of Christ with anyone in Dargaville needing a venue, company or even just a decent meal, the church wishes to see people from all walks of life come through its doors. With local businesses and individuals rallying to provide gifts and provisions being collected, the church hopes to take the stress off struggling, lost and lonely people.
“For us, Christmas is about Jesus, the greatest gift of all time, and in honour of that, we are here to give to a vulnerable community. There is too much poverty, despair and pain in society, and we hope that this lunch will help strengthen our connection with the community,” said Amy Fifita.
With Christmas songs, games, food and a service for the children and the adults, everyone’s needs are catered for.
“I encourage families out there to let us bless you and your family; allow us to get to know you. We want to share this special day with you and ensure that you have full bellies, and that your children have presents.”
Just as the three wise men brought presents to the baby Jesus, the church
will give gifts to children. With gifts being collected for the younger ones, parents need to register their children, so there are enough gifts. To register, contact pastor Moses Rao on 021 248 8910.
“Our church is a drug-free, alcohol-free and cigarette-free zone, so we ask for the duration of the event, that people please refrain. People can smoke cigarettes or vapes next door in the car park.
“A massive thank you to all of the generous businesses, people and organisations who helped make this event possible. It has made such a huge impact and helps us reach out to the wonderful community of Dargaville.
“Still accepting donations or sponsors, please contact Moses if you would like to contribute to the cause. Please let us know ahead of time if you have any allergies.” ¢
We take pride in producing quality work at all times and at every stage of your project and working within agreed budgets.
Our goal is to deliver personal service to you at all times. Consulting with you and working with you to ensure your desires are met throughout the building process to the best of our abilities.
by Andy Bryenton
Next week, instead of your usual Kaipara Lifestyler we will bring out our holiday edition, the Summer Lifestyler. It’s packed with all the great reasons to visit this part of New Zealand, what to do, what to see, and how great life can be here. We’ve included historical curiosities, geological marvels, natural wonders, breathtaking views, top fishing spots, fun activities and plenty of food and drink as well.
What we didn’t include was the single thing that makes Kaipara more than just a geographical work of art, assembled from lakes and hills and forests and beaches. We didn’t dedicate a page to the people of Kaipara, because they (that is to say, you) are everywhere, making the district live. We’ve written the words, one could say, but you are the music.
These landscapes existed for millions of years coloured only with birdsong. It took people to paint Kaipara with a richness of legend and history, culture and poetry and anecdotes. People have achieved the seemingly impossible on the canvas of this land, working together. People like you make up the clubs and societies, the congregations and sports teams, charities and committees that
weave life into a stronger, more vibrant fabric here.
Writing the local news, you get to catch a glimpse of the whole web of stories and personal histories stretching from Poutō lighthouse to the surf break off Mangawhai Heads. This proximity lends the realisation that you’re all amazing, never boring, always surprising, Kaipara. You’re some of my favourite people, even the ones who I only meet as blackand-white photographs attached to historical stories.
We’ve had some big changes this year. We made it through, and we’re still here to bring you the local news, like John Stallworthy did in 1892 and Jane Mander did in 1907. So, as we’ve got the privilege of these lines and this ink together — Merry Christmas. Have a good one. Share it with your family, and those mates who are the family you’ve chosen. Love sincerely. Let your kids and young relatives call it ‘cringe’, it doesn’t matter. We get about 80 Christmases on average, and not one of them is promised. Grab it with both hands.
We’ll be back in 2026 to share more of your stories. You know why they call them ‘yarns’, don’t you? It’s because they hold it all together. ¢
A Christmas catch
This young man was pleased with himself after catching a good-sized snapper on the Kaipara Harbour in 1938. No doubt his successful catch gave his family an enjoyable meal shortly afterwards.
Image credit:
Auckland Libraries
Heritage Collections
A cramped train ride
It was Christmas week, and the whole population peered on the move — the ladies and their babies right in the front. The bush roosters were on the wing and hurrying out in scores, eager for the fray. All bent on keeping their Christmas holiday, and taking advantage of the cheap fares. To meet the inevitable response to its popular invitation, the department provided one small guard’s van.
New Zealand Herald, February 5 1898
Birthday celebration on Christmas Eve
Remarkable for her health and vigour, and for her fond memories of North Auckland in its early days, Mrs John Stallworthy, widow of the late Mr John Stallworthy, celebrated her 90th birthday on Christmas Eve in Aratapu, near Dargaville.
Dominion, December 30 1939
Length: 900mm
Width:
Height:
Height: 600mm
u by Andy Bryenton
The Mangawhai Gala is coming on the second day of the new year, delivering family fun along with a big fundraising boost for the Mangawhai Domain.
When the gates open on January 2, the town of Mangawhai will have doubled its usual population, with seasonal visitors and bach owners flocking to the sunshine, sand and seaside lifestyle of the east coast. For many of these folks, the gala day is a highlight of their holiday, and the touchstone for many good memories.
For the domain itself, a year-round venue for sports and entertainment, the gala day is a lifeline of funding. Due to
put together a proper old-fashioned Kiwi day out, with plenty to see and do. There will be stalls selling local crafts, artwork and gifts as part of a market on the green. There will be carnival-style rides for youngsters, including the ever-popular bouncy castles and slides.
For the adults, there’s live music from local Mangawhai band DNA, the same rocking ensemble who entertain at the annual Mangawhai hot rod show. Then,
the way this well-utilised public space is managed, it receives no money from the government.
“The Mangawhai Gala has been a beloved local event for many years, and it’s the most major fundraiser for the domain, paying for all of the major costs required to make this space available,” says domain chairman Mike McGarry.
For 2026, the committee, which runs the domain and organises the show, has
there’s a wide array of street food, food trucks and tasty treats on offer, from fairground classics to the flavours of many lands.
A big drawcard returning this year is the chance to get a bird’s-eye view of the scenic east coast. Helicopter rides will return as a gala attraction, as they were a firm favourite in 2025, allowing families to enjoy a memorable adventure in the sky.
The Mangawhai Domain is one of the most utilised, well-respected green spaces in east Kaipara, and its fiscal management is a serious matter. However, the domain society and committee have hit upon a fun way to ensure they’re well funded. By creating a halo event celebrating Mangawhai as a holiday destination, they’ve boosted tourism and created some great memories for visitors, too.
Mark your calendar for January 2, and bring the whole family to enjoy the gala and its carnival atmosphere. It’s a brilliant way to start 2026, and one that helps the local community, too. ¢
ARAPOHUE Lot 3 Pukehuia Road
Private, Fertile 57-hectare Grazing Block
Clean and tidy 57.9 hectare grazing block offers an exceptional opportunity for those seeking a productive and private rural property. With flat to easy rolling contour and fertile soils including river flats, this land is well-suited to grazing, cropping, or supplement production. 18 paddocks, a three-stand woolshed with power, cattle yards, and a three-bay implement shed. Water is supplied via a dam.
$695,000 Plus GST (if any)
DARGAVILLE Lot 2 Scottys Camp Road
80.67ha Rural Opportunity - Close to Town Grazing block close to Dargaville with 33 well-fenced paddocks, hay barn and cattle yards with loading facilities. Water is pumped from a dam to a tank and gravity-fed to troughs. A mix of quality pasture with supplements made on-farm. Ideal for dairy support, calf rearing, or lifestyle farming. Handy to the beach, featuring a small wet area and sheltered back section. Secure this productive block today!
mbrowning@pggwrightson.co.nz
DARGAVILLE
Coastal Farming Opportunity - 154 Hectares
Set in a coastal location, this expansive 154-hectare property offers a rare opportunity to secure clean, productive farmland. The land features a mix of soil types and contours, well-raced to 45 paddocks with some gullies, and has produced up to 300 bales of silage annually. Currently running approximately 260 mixed-age cattle, it's ideally suited for grazing, a support block, or a dedicated beef unit. The property includes a four-bedroom weatherboard home, 2-bay implement shed, older 4-bay shed, 2-bay shed, hay shed and former cowshed Water is supplied via the reliable Bradley water scheme.
$1.15M
Plus GST (if any) VIEW By Appointment Only
Megan Browning
M 027 668 8468
E mbrowning@pggwrightson.co.nz
Nellwyn Lulich
M 029 127 4729
E nellwyn.lulich@pggwrightson.co.nz
DARGAVILLE Lot 3 Sills Road
Country Living
Lifestyle Section of 7753sqm
Nestled in a serene rural setting, this generously sized lot offers a rare opportunity to build your dream home surrounded by nature. Elevated sites with native bush, backing onto a council reserve rich in birdlife. Enjoy space for animals, privacy, and nature. Power at power pole. Close to Arapohue School, hall, bowling club and more. Call now to view! $246,000
DARGAVILLE 9 Earl Street
Sunshine, Space and Practicality!
This well-maintained 1950s home offers comfort and practicality in a sunny, elevated spot. Enjoy a light-filled lounge flowing to open-plan dining and kitchen with great storage, double oven, and garden views A sunny conservatory is perfect for relaxing. Updates include plush carpet, modern blinds, insulation, moisture system, and two heat pumps. Three bedrooms, family bathroom, and double garage with workshop complete the package. On 966sqm in a quiet cul-de-sac close to schools and amenities.
1 2 ENQUIRIES OVER $599,000 VIEW 11.00-11.30am, Saturday 13 December
DARGAVILLE 46 Cobham Avenue
Family Living, Rural Views, Potential Abounds
DARGAVILLE 461 Notorious West Road
A Lifestyle Dream - Two Homes, Park-like Grounds
Discover a property that truly has it all – space, style, and versatility. Perfect for multi-generational
sits a
with an extensive concrete forecourt that connects to a very good second shed, 7m x 12m, complete with toilet and shower facilities, and Solar panels.
The second home is smart, tidy, and perfectly positioned for sunshine and views. It offers two bedrooms, bathroom and open plan living, making it ideal for guests or extended family. A third shed to the west provides extra storage and flexibility. The grounds and extensive orchard are nothing short of spectacular, suppling food year-round and the being impeccably maintained, reflecting the care and love gone into this property. Extensive gardens and park-like spaces are filled with surprises and practical features, including a smokehouse, filleting bench, shade house, garden shed, and more – a true gardener’s paradise.
Ready to move in and make it yours! This solid brick home sits on a quiet, family-friendly avenue on the edge of town, with open-plan living flowing to a private alfresco area and a sun-filled conservatory for morning coffee or evening wind-down. Enjoy serene rural views to the Maungaru Range from every living space. Three bedrooms, two bathrooms, two toilets, and a single garage tick all the boxes. Comfortable as is, but with room to add your own wow factor. Contact me today! 3 2 1 DEADLINE SALE (Unless Sold Prior) Closes 2.00pm, Tuesday 16 December VIEW 12.30-1.00pm, Sunday 14 December E cindy.younger@pggwrightson.co.nz M
2 1 1
M 027 471 6388 Ron Grbin E cindy.younger@pggwrightson.co.nz M 027 278 2309 Cindy Younger RURAL
DEADLINE SALE (Unless Sold Prior) Closes 2.00pm, Tuesday 20 January VIEW 11.00-12.00pm, Sunday 14 December E rgrbin@pggwrightson.co.nz
RUAWAI 331 Simpson Road
Premium Dairy Farm in Ruawai
A highly productive 167ha dairy farm in Ruawai with 100% flat contour. Features a 60-bail rotary shed, large feed barn for 600 cows, 110 paddocks with limestone races, and bore water. Milking 560 cows once a day, producing 142,000kg MS on OAD, with peak of 190,000kg MS on TAD. Includes three homes—main home with four bedrooms, new kitchen, log burner and sleepout. Excellent infrastructure and proven performance. Enquire now
(if any) (Unless Sold Prior)
RUAWAI 87 Tramline Road
111-hectare Productive Beef Grazing Farm
5 1 2
TENDER
RUAWAI 194 Whakatu Road
Burgess Island - Do You Want Your Own Island?
Exceptional flat, fertile farm, ex dairy with extensive infrastructure. Features Te Pari hydraulic crush, weigh scales, concrete yarding and feed area. Includes two round bay sheds, lean-to and six bay shed. 70 paddocks. Grazing 200 Speckle Park cows with calves, 70 MA bulls. Two bores, one in use. Tidy five-bedroom home with one bathroom, rumpus room and deck. A standout opportunity for lifestyle and farming.
Plus GST (if any)
(Unless Sold Prior)
Closes 2.00pm, Thursday 22 January
VIEW By Appointment Only
Megan Browning
M 027 668 8468
E mbrowning@pggwrightson.co.nz
RUAWAI Freyberg Road
3 1 2
Welcome to Burgess Island, an exceptional 48-hectare property nestled in the heart of Ruawai. This flat, fertile land is surrounded by water and protected by stop banks on three sides, offering unmatched privacy, natural beauty and a lifestyle hard to find anywhere else. Grazing mixed-age beef and dairy yearlings, 24 paddocks with single wire fencing and races for easy access. Carries approx 150 animals over the summer. Three bay shed located near the two-bedroom cottage, cattle loading facilities, hay barn with a small feeding area, bore water. A block ideal for hay, silage and cropping. 2 1
Megan Browning
M 027 668 8468
TENDER Plus GST (if any) (Unless Sold Prior) Closes 2.00pm, Thursday 22 January VIEW By Appointment Only E mbrowning@pggwrightson.co.nz
64ha Flat Fertile Land in the Heart of Ruawai
Welcome to an exceptional opportunity in the heart of the Ruawai community - 64 hectares of prime, flat, fertile land - not been cropped. Productive and well set up with two access points, tidy internal fencing and a full suite of infrastructure including cattle yards with loading, seven bay implement shed, double five bay pole shed and kumara shed with leasing potential. Hay and silage made on-farm, ideal for young dairy stock or a support block. Bore system plus town water as backup. With a tidy three-bedroom home this property has the location, infrastructure and productivity to deliver.
pggwre.co.nz/DAG42650
TENDER
Plus GST (if any) (Unless Sold Prior) Closes 2.00pm, Thursday 22 January VIEW By Appointment Only
Megan Browning
M 027 668 8468
E mbrowning@pggwrightson.co.nz
u by Andy Bryenton
The Tinopai Wharf was closed to the public in July, with boards torn up to prevent access to
icon and favourite fishing spot.
Months before this action was taken, in November 2024, concerns arose over both the wharf’s condition and the need for a breakwater to aid the Tinopai Coastguard in launching their vessel.
The Kaipara District Council, Coastguard, mana whenua and the Northland Regional Council agreed on a doubling of the length of the Tinopai breakwater.
“At the time of the November 14 2024 site meeting, the attendees were
“The
assured that the Tinopai Wharf would also be repaired like-for-like via a separate budget,” said KDC managers Bryan Hagan and Glynis McCarthy.
However, the condition of the wharf proved to be much worse than anticipated, with nearly a quarter of the wharf pilings rotten, and the whole deck and handrails needing replacement. The cost was considered prohibitive. A plan to extend
the proposed breakwater, run a path along the top and erect a wooden fishing platform there was drawn up, but questions still remain as to whether this scheme will find community support.
“We’ve got to get it right. If you don’t know what its purpose is, and what it’s there for. If that’s fishing, if
that’s launching your boats, if it’s for our whānau that are there to be in Coastguard — then you’ve really missed the mark,” said councillor Joesephine Nathan.
“The coastguard has been urgently requesting the breakwater to be fixed. We have a budget there to do the work, and it’s nearly summer. We really need to find a way forward,” said mayor Jonathan Larsen.
A decision may be buoyed by the public consensus forwarded at October’s meeting. As in 1990, the Tinopai community indicated they would be willing to band together to help fund a refurbishment of their 95-year-old wharf.
“The community have stated they are willing to raise funds and in-kind support towards the reconstruction of their wharf in a similar vein to the 1990s effort. The
community has begun mobilising to this effect; however, the amount and nature of the support they are able to raise is not yet known,” KDC managers Hagan and McCarthy said.
With a group of Tinopai residents coming to the last meeting of the year to make their case, the mayor suggested that a working group be formed to make a plan before Christmas. ¢
u by Andy Bryenton
While the debate surrounding carbon credits, methane measurements and other environmental issues continues in the rural sector, there’s a broad consensus on one ecological measure that’s fundamental.
Recycling plastics used on farms is not a new concept, and it’s been supported by schemes such as Agrecovery and Plasback. Some have been in place and developing in tandem with farmers’ needs for two decades.
Now, these two initiatives will be rolled into one, forming the basis for a single, unified nationwide plastic recycling scheme on farms. Parliamentarian Penny Simmonds, speaking at the announcement of the new programme, said that this industry-led push for recycling will be free to use, simple and accessible.
“This initiative is about fixing the basics while building the future with practical solutions that protect the environment, support our farmers and ensure a productive, sustainable primary sector,” Ms Simmonds said.
The key to implementing a nationwide rural plastics recovery scheme is a new set of regulations covering agrichemical containers and farm plastics.
“We consulted on these regulations earlier this year and received strong support from the rural sector. Farmers and growers have been working towards this for a long time. Today, we’ve made it happen.
“This initiative is about fixing the basics while building the future with practical solutions that protect the environment”
“Plastic
products are essential to New Zealand’s world-leading agri-economy, but rural communities know that waste
• Silage Loader Wagons
• Fixed & Variable Chamber Balers
• Triple mowers
• Medium Square Baler
• Undersower/Air-seeder
• Strip Till with Fert Application
like containers, plastic bags and bale wrap can pile up.” The new scheme, announced in the first week of December,
will share the responsibility for recovery and recycling between sellers, producers and end-users of farming products that use plastic for packaging. It won’t just benefit farmers.
Forestry, manufacturing, hospitality, tourism and local authorities will also have access to national take-back services, making safe disposal easier for all New Zealanders.
“Key industry stakeholders support the scheme because it offers a better alternative to burning or burying plastics, reducing environmental risk and supporting cleaner, safer rural communities.”
Nadine Tunley, CEO of Horticulture New Zealand, and DairyNZ general manager David Burger both expressed support for the initiative.
“It is a simple and efficient way for growers to optimise environmentally positive growing practices,” said Ms Tunley.
“New Zealand dairy farmers are committed to reducing their environmental footprint, including minimising plastic waste. The green farms product stewardship scheme offers a solution to enable our farmers to progress further along this journey,” said Dr Burger. ¢
“Well Dog, it’s all go time of year with summer unnerway, blimmin’ Chrissmiss just aroun’ tha corner, witch
town fer our Sharlene. But hey, a Chrismiss barbie should suit ya, eh?”
Gidday readas, this is me final kolumn for tha year, ’cos Boss an’ Sharlene gonnna head to town fer shoppin’ and then I reckin they mite head for a beech, an’ hopefully, that meens I go, too. Tha beech for a cupla weeks an’ Boss talkin’ barbie sound a pretty good idea ter me.
Boss was talkin ona way down tha kattil race fer smoko, an’ we saw his gerfrend Sharlene already ona woolshed steps waitin’, an readin’ tha papa froma road gate.
We sat down for cuppatees, an’ Sharlene tole tha Boss they had a visitor wile we was checkin’ the stock ona farm.
“You’ll be pleased tho’ Deah, the bloke was an MPI inspector and says that blimmin’ Mycoplasma bovis seems ter be cleared up.”
Sharlene had her lappytop, and read in her skoolteecher voice: “MPI says spring bulk tank milk testing across the country has found no sign of M bovis and there’s been no new infection detected for two years.”
Boss looked pleased, an’ I ’membered he was down ina dumps, an’ had a bit of a swearin’,
’cos some of his kattil hada get tha chop wen them MPI fellas declared they gotta go. That included blimmin’ Bruiser tha
Bull, an’ wile Boss hada bit of a weep, I gotta admit I was pleased ter see tha back of him. He give me a kick once an’ sent me ter that Vet.
Sharlene read sum more, though. ”We can now enter the final phase, another couple of years of testing to be confident to declare a world-first eradication.”
“Heck Deah,” Boss sed. “I blimmin’ fergottin about it anyway. Jus’ shows how much stuff we gotta think about ona farm these days. I reckin we betta start lookin’ atta hollyday brake, hitch up that boat ta tha farm ute for fishin’, an’ head fer Poutō, or maybe Tinopie this year. Thay gonna hava a big hāngī there to celebrate getting mussil beds going again.”
Hāngī eh, I thought readas. Tinopie might be a blimmin’ good idea. But Sharlene now hada papa, and sed she’d havta check tha whether first.
“Low-pressure zones are now forming more frequently in the tropics, and with sea surface temperatures above normal in the upper North Island and over the ocean up to the tropics, it increases the chances of these lows becoming stormier.”
“Yeah — nah,” seda Boss. “The beeches gettin’ crowded as the
shoppin’
temperature rises. And hopefully, rain stays away too. Our whether always be a bit changey but it’s getting pretty warm now. Time fer tha beech.”
Well readas, that will suit me jus’ fine I reckin. Barbie leffovers fe me tea, an’ seagulls ter chase, too. Plus a paddle or a dip ina sea. Boss an’ Sharlene all happy with a few whines an’ bears.
Roll on Chrissmiss I reckin.
Cheers — Billy ¢
u by Amy Fifita
Matakohe School has gratefully accepted a donation from Woolworths’ Growing for Good grant, and will be using it to expand its garden to cater to the school family and the community.
The rural school already has three garden beds and some fruit trees in place, but envisions providing more for their local community. The $10,000 grant will help the school extend its gardens and offer more aid to the community.
“The gardens will be established to support our school community, and if they are productive enough, we will extend them to feed our children’s families and the local community,” said principal Robyn Young.
“It is all about cultivating a community spirit of providing for ourselves and caring for others. This is a collaborative project that involves the whole school, from planning to harvesting, cooking, and eating — it encompasses the full cycle of food production.”
With a current garden in place, the produce from it is used for school lunches and helps students understand where their food comes from.
“We already have three small garden beds and a few fruit trees, and we want to extend the site substantially. We still use the produce in the school lunches, already being able to provide for ourselves.”
The school is also hoping to feature a butterfly house, after the monarch butterfly was declared an endangered species in 2022. Robyn says the butterfly house was her idea and will be used to teach the students about the monarch butterflies, and how to contribute towards the species’ survival.
“We are creating a pass-it-forward culture, so other people can benefit
For all of your stockfood requirements contact your local merchant or BULK
from our gardens. A community-minded school, engaging through volunteering and community projects, this initiative embodies our Kauri values — kindness, accountability, unity, respect and integrity.”
Hoping for a surplus, the gardens are a storehouse of nutrition for not only the students, but also for school families and the community.
“We are really appreciative, and we thank Woolworths and the Growing for Good grants. We are excited, having been the recipients of this privilege.” ¢
December
Rural Support Te Tai Tokerau Christmas Lunch — 12 Dec @ 12pm. Pouto Marine Hall. A great opportunity to come together and support each other. Free hangi and refreshments are supplied.
Tangiteroria Community Complex — 19 December BISTRO. Open 6pm.
January
Northland Circus Festival — 9–11 Jan 2026, Family Friendly Workshops, Shows, Camping & more. Mangakahia Sports Complex. Tickets on humanitix. com. For more info circuskumarani.co.nz.
Dargaville Aero Club — 10 Jan 2026, 9.30am–3pm. Hosting the Warbirds at the Aero Club at Hoanga Rd. Food and $80 trial flights available. Ph Peter 022 025 0235.
Markets
Kaihu Hall Market — 4th Saturday each month 10am–noon. Phone Robin 09 439 4878.
Monthly Market — 1st Saturday of each month, 8am–noon at the Kaipara Community Centre, Hokianga Road (opposite the Town Hall).
Paparoa Farmers’ Market — Every Saturday 9am–12pm. Genuine local produce, vegetables, seafood, olive oils, meats, patisserie, plants and more. Village Green, Paparoa.
Te Kopuru Market — 2nd Saturday of each month, 9am–1pm at Coronation Hall. Stall holders ring Rachel on 021 133 7560.
Clubs/Organisations
57 Squadron (Dargaville) Air Training Corps — Mondays 6pm–8pm at the Dargaville Aero Club. For boys and girls aged 13–18 years. Phone Gordon 021 262 0547.
Alcoholics Anonymous — Dargaville meetings, Lighthouse Church, cnr Parore St and Normanby St, Monday 4.30pm & Anglican Church hall, 58 Hokianga Rd, Thursday 7.30pm. Top of drive, parking available. More help 0800 229 6757.
Alzheimer’s ‘Carer’ Support Group — Contact Maxine on 022 691 6068.
Anger Management Group — Thursdays 6pm–7.30pm 1/12 Kapia Street, Dargaville. Helena 021 564 618 or 09 601 4153.
Badminton — Wednesday Nights. 7pm–9pm, $2 per night. Dargaville High School Gym, Plunket Street. Some racquets available. All welcome 13 years & over, enquiries phone 021 439 157. Baylys & Beyond Gardeners — 2nd Monday of each month. Garden ramble, shared lunch, trading table phone 021 063 3444.
Blind Low Vision Support Group — Meets 10.30am, last Monday of the month, alternatively at Dargaville and Ruawai. Phone Noelene 09 439 0033 for more info. Chess Club — All welcome, Wednesdays 6.30pm Dargaville, gold coin donation. Phone Stephen 09 439 8819.
Circus Kumarani All Ages Circus Class — Term 4. Come along and learn some circus, casual or full term. 15 Onslow St, Dargaville, Tuesdays 3.45–4.45pm; and Paparoa Memorial Hall, Thursdays 4–5pm. www. circuskumarani.co.nz/classes.
Citizens Advice Bureau — Dargaville & districts now at Parenga Street (between the Menz Shed and My Accountants).
Dargaville Aero Club — Learn to fly, free of tuition charges, Gyrocopter, Texan, Stork. Contact Peter 022 025 0235 for further info.
Dargaville Bowling Club Tuesday Bowls — Names by 9.30am, start 10am, finish 2.30pm. Contact Ray King 09 439 5509.
Dargaville Club — 55 Victoria Street, open Wednesday and Friday from 5pm. Members and guests welcome.
Dargaville Club Jam Nights — every second Friday, 5.30pm start.
Dargaville Community Garden — at Kumarani Creative Centre, 15 Onslow St. Open day on second Saturday of the month (12th April, 10th May) come along from 10am–1pm for a cuppa, swap crops, seeds and ideas. Email classes@circuskumarani.co.nz.
Dargaville Contact Bridge Club — Tuesdays 12.45pm and Wednesdays 6.45pm at the Kiosk, Memorial Park, Logan St, Dargaville. dargavillebridge@gmail.com or phone Peter 09 439 2437 or 022 405 6439.
Dargaville Darts Club — Every Wednesday, 6pm start, at Dargaville Club, 55 Victoria Street.
Dargaville Firearm & Military Collectors Club — 3rd Friday of every second month at Lions Club Hall, Hokianga Road, at 7.30pm. Phone Alec Melville 027 215 1833.
Dargaville Friendship Club for seniors — 2nd Tuesday of month at 10am at the Kiosk, Memorial Park, Logan Street. Phone Brian or Barbara 09 439 5959.
Dargaville Mainly Music — Interactive music and movement for preschoolers and their carers. Wednesdays 10am Baptist church, Victoria St, during term time. Contact Rebecca 021 969 626.
Dargaville Man Up — every Monday 6.30pm at Te Arohanui Hall, Victoria St. Phone David 021 0849 3670.
Dargaville Medieval Combat Club — Wednesday each week 6.30–8.30pm, Kaipara Community Centre, Hokianga Road. $15 per lesson. Equipment provided. Contact Kurt 022 622 7809.
Dargaville Menz Shed — Tuesday and Thursday each week from 10am to 3pm and Saturday from 10am to noon. For more info phone Paul 027 459 3098 or Brian 09 439 6175.
Dargaville Museum — Open 7 days per week. Hours 9am–4pm April to October, 9am–5pm October to April. Phone 09 439 7555.
Dargaville Plunket Playgroup — 10am–midday. Held every Thursday, 29 Hokianga Rd at the Dargaville Plunket Rooms. Free service, coffee and tea provided. Check our FB page for further details.
Dargaville Public Library — Get Help from a DigiCoach. Mon–Fri 10am–2pm. 1:1 Support. Friendly local trainers. FREE.
Dargaville Riverside Taha Awa Garden Trust Join them in overseeing the running of the Garden. Contact Sheena 021 439 157 or email dargavilleriversidegarden@gmail.com.
Dargaville Scout Group — For boys and girls aged 5–99 years at 23 Onslow St. All info on door or phone Johnnita 027 296 5889.
Dargaville Tabletop Wargames and RPGs — Games like Dungeons & Dragons, Warhammer or other strategy games. Thursdays 6.30pm, Hokianga Road, upstairs above the cinema.
Dargaville Yoga — Yoga for every Bodhi at the Pono lodge. Tuesday mornings 9.30am. Thursdays evenings 6pm. Mats available, everyone welcomed. Find us on Facebook @stretchyourbodhi. Contact Diane 027 371 5274.
Drop in meditation — 5.30–6pm Thursdays at Bring Balance, Kaipara Community Centre (side entrance), 38 Hokianga Rd. Room open from 5pm, all welcome. Koha/Dana. www.bringbalance.co.nz, 021 0231 8008.
Phone: 09 439 6933 or 0800 466 793 Email: info@rml.nz
Postal Address: PO Box 474, Dargaville Physical Address: 107 River Road, Dargaville
Editor: Andy Bryenton
Journalists: Andy Bryenton 021 439 947 | Amy Fifita 027 259 6455 | Paul Campbell
Advertising: Olivia Green 027 525 8197 | Sue Girven 027 525 7984
Classifieds: 09 439 6933 | info@rml.nz
Production: Gavin Bainbridge | Marnie Fuller | Daniel Foster | Liz Clark
Accounts: accounts@rml.nz
Distribution: Laurie Willetts Printed by: NZME
Website: kaiparalifestyler.co.nz
Girls’ Brigade — Thursdays 3–5pm at the Lighthouse Church, for girls 5–18 years. Register online at 1st Dargaville Girls Brigade 2025 registrations. Find us on FB & Instagram or phone 021 263 7446.
Hikuwai O Kaipara Waka Ama Club — NW Boating Club, 5pm Mondays and Thursdays from 5pm for Awa training.
Housie — Every third Monday of the month at 1.30pm, Dargaville Bowling Club. Janice Allan 027 355 7434.
JP Service — Every Thursday at the Whanau Focus Office, 12–1pm, walk in only. Please note that 11th Dec will be at the Dargaville Library. Come and have your documents verified and we also photocopy important documents like Passports, Birth Certificates and Driver Licences free of charge. Call 021 245 3765 or 09 439 7009, 61 Victoria Street, Dargaville.
Kaihu Valley Music Club — 3rd Sunday of the Month at Kaihu Hall on Woods Road. 1pm–4pm. Enquires to John or May 09 439 0827.
Kaipara Bootscooters (Beginner line dancing classes) — Every Monday 5.30pm to 7.30pm and Thursday 10am to noon. First hour is beginner and second hour is higher beginner. Dalmation Hall, Normanby St, Dargaville. Contact Donna 021 729 955.
Kaipara Cycling — Calendar of Rides — Thursday 3.45pm–5.30pm Junior Mountainbike Coaching. Contact Sadie 022 453 4475. Friday Ride-day 10am–noon. Social Ride on road and gravel roads. E-bike and analogue welcome. Phone Karen 021 0226 4001. Riding from Dargaville.
Kaipara Grey Power — third Friday of each month February to November. Contact 09 439 7801 or 09 439 4452.
Kaipara Heritage Machinery Club — Open 7 days. Something to interest both men and women, come and get involved. Phone 021 106 3635 or 027 472 1269.
Lions Club of Ruawai — 3rd Thursday of the month (social) and 1st Thursday of the month (business). Contact Dorothy on 09 439 2557.
Lions Dargaville — 2nd Wednesday of the month in Lions Den, Hokianga Road. Contact John 09 439 5937.
Maungaturoto AA Meeting — Mondays 7pm at the Maungaturoto Community House, 155 Hurndall St, Maungaturoto. Contact Carolyn 021 828 055.
Maungaturoto Gardening Club — 3rd Thursday of every month. In winter Centennial Hall, Maungaturoto. Other months visit gardens in the area. New members welcome. $15 to join — first 3 visits FREE. Please contact Gloria 021 100 8153 for more info.
Northern Wairoa Country Music Club — 1st Sunday of the month at the Scout Hall, 23 Onslow Street 1–4pm. Enquiries to Kathleen 021 077 7697.
Northern Wairoa Genealogy Society — Learn how to trace your family history or understand DNA at Dargaville Museum, 2nd and 4th Sundays of each month, 12.30–2pm and at other times by appointments. Phone Sue 021 608 606.
Northern Wairoa Golf Club — Twilight Golf every Thursday. Tee off 4–6pm.
Northern Wairoa Indoor Bowls Assn — 7pm Mondays at Anglican Church Hall, Tuesdays at Ruawai-Tokatoka Hall, Wednesdays at Dalmatian Hall. Contact Warren Younger 027 478 5102 or evenings 09 439 6155.
NZ 60s Up Movement — Dargaville Social Meetings held at the Lighthouse Function Centre on 1st Tuesday of the month. Contact Margaret Pinny 09 439 4560. Paparoa Box Fit — $10. Stretching/cardio/boxing. Paparoa Memorial Hall, every Wednesday 6–7pm. Paparoa Dance to Music — $5. Stretching/balance/ resistance bands/Zumba, Paparoa Memorial Hall, every Tuesday 10.30–11.30am.
Paparoa Kids Fun Class — $5. Learning/Music/ Dodge Ball/Limbo, Paparoa Memorial Hall, Every Friday 3–4pm.
Peggy Purls in our Community — Every 3rd Wednesday 10.30am at Dargaville Sewing and Curtain Centre, 59 Normanby St. Ring Charlene 09 439 6120. Petanque — social play. Mondays 9.15 till 11.30, $2, fun exercise, all equipment supplied at Sportsville. Judy 09 439 7920.
Recovery Support Group — Mondays 6.30pm– 9pm. 1/12 Kapia Street, Dargaville. Chrissy 09 601 4153 or 021 564 618.
Rock ’n’ Roll Lessons — Thursdays, 6.30pm–7.30pm at Dalmatian Hall, 20 Normanby St. $2 per person. Text Kirsty 021 0818 7902 for more info.
Rotary Club of Dargaville — Weekly on Wednesdays, 11.30–1pm at the Lions Centre in Hokianga Road. Men and women. Phone Brian 09 439 6175. RSA Women’s Section — Social meeting held at the Clubrooms, 4th Monday of the month. Contact Noeline Wright 027 733 7396.
Ruawai Bowling Club — new members welcome. For info call Alison 027 243 5454.
Ruawai Gardening Club — 3rd Thursday of every month, Feb to Nov at the Ruawai Bowling Club, 10am start. Phone Merele 09 439 2335.
Stepping Out Leisure Marching Team — Tuesday 4pm–5pm at the Dargaville Dalmatian Hall, 20 Normanby St. Contact Sharon 027 439 5634 or 09 439 5634.
Stitches and Crafts — 31 Logan St, Dargaville. 10.30am–4pm, Tuesday and Friday. Contact Edith & Mike 021 439 675.
Strength & Conditioning — Baylys Beach Community Centre, Mondays and Fridays. 9am–10am, $10 per session. Call Tony 022 311 8447.
Tangiteroria Community Complex — Mondays: Pickleball 6pm, Sarah 021 772 822. Tuesdays: Yoga 6pm, Sharon 021 981 135, $15 per session. Wednesdays: Indoor Bowls (fortnightly in summer, weekly in winter) 6pm, Mel 021 772 822; Squash, Donna 021 761 022; Exercise Room, Mel 021 772 822. We ask participants are Complex Members for above activities. For Pickleball and Bowls it’s a gold coin donation.
Te Kopuru Community Library — access through St Peters Hall. Open Wednesday 10am–noon and Sunday 3pm–4pm.
Te Kopuru Sewing & Craft Group — Coronation Hall, Norton Street, Te Kopuru every Saturday from 9am–noon. Gold coin koha for the hall. Contact Grace on 021 0858 2455.
Wednesday Crafts — Every Wednesday 10am. Variety of crafts. The Kiosk at Memorial Park. All welcome. $10 per session. Contact Judy 027 316 3940.
WED 10 3:05am (3.0m) 9:09am (0.7m) 3:30pm (3.1m) 9:47pm (0.7m) THU 11 3:57am (2.9m) 10:01am (0.8m) 4:23pm (3.0m) 10:40pm (0.8m) FRI 12 4:52am (2.8m) 10:55am (1.0m) 5:18pm (2.9m) 11:36pm (0.9m) SAT 13 5:50am (2.7m) 11:55am (1.0m) 6:16pm (2.8m) SUN 14 12:32am (0.9m) 6:50am (2.7m) 12:57pm (1.1m) 7:14pm (2.8m) MON 15 1:29am
POUTO POINT WED 10 12:08am
SAT 13 2:47am (2.3m) 8:46am (0.8m) 3:11pm (2.4m) 9:24pm (0.8m) SUN 14 3:43am (2.2m) 9:45am (0.9m) 4:03pm (2.3m) 10:17pm (0.8m) MON 15 4:41am (2.2m) 10:43am (1.0m) 4:55pm (2.2m) 11:10pm (0.8m)
TUE 16 5:37am (2.2m) 11:36am (1.0m) 5:46pm (2.2m)
66 Usher in (6)
(5)
stubbornly to move or be persuaded (3,4,5,2)
11 Avian creatures (5)
14 Organ controls (5)
15 Distracted from the main topic (11)
16 Messy writing (8)
19 House maker (7)
20 Row of shrubs (5)
21 Fit to live in (9)
24 Copy (9)
26 Soak (6)
27 Confound (6)
31 Soft hat (5)
32 Food of the gods (8)
34 Not keeping confidences (10)
38 Rectify (7)
39 Separate into parts (6)
40 Motor fuel (6)
41 Pastry type (4)
42 Bewitch (7)
45 Money laid out with an expectation of profit (10)
50 Firearm (7)
54 Poverty (4)
55 Emergency (6)
56 One and only (6)
57 With patches of colour (7)
60 Hard to believe (10)
61 Waterproof overshoes (8)
62 Freewheel (5)
65 Screed (anag)(6)
67 Happening repeatedly (9)
72 Cooked outdoors (9)
73 Crowbar (5)
74 Dog breed (7)
79 Tyre grip (8)
80 Intricate, involved (11)
81 Shipping box (5)
82 Frighten off (5)
83 Sheer impudence (4-5,5)
84 Lid (5) DOWN
2 False (6)
3 Student (5)
5 Eye part (4)
6 Dine to excess (7)
7 Anger (6)
8 Horse for ordinary riding (4)
9 Raised (8)
10 Trance (anag)(6)
11 Great brightness (10)
12 Gemstone (4)
13 Apparition (7)
17 Kingdom (5)
18 Unhitch (10)
22 Rascal (5)
23 Donation (8)
25 Dig up (7)
26 Local tongue (7)
28 Addictive drug (6)
29 Praise (anag)(6)
30 Arm muscles (6)
33 Rule over (5)
35 Prickle (5)
36 Glance over quickly (4)
37 Border (4)
42 Boredom (5)
43 Held tightly (8)
44 Root vegetable (6)
45 Bankruptcy (10)
46 Flower holder (4)
47 Blurred (7)
48 On the whole (6)
49 Naming words (5)
51 Leader (4)
52 Tropical storm (7)
53 Nervous (6)
58 School boss (10)
59 Raise objections (5)
63 Become gradually less (5,3)
64 Debate (5)
65 Talked informally (7)
68 Facial hair (7)
69 Soak up (6)
70 In arrears (6)
71 Calm (6)
75 Performed slowly (mus) (5)
76 Walk (4)
77 Long narrative poem (4)
78 Festival (4)
Fill the grid so that every column, every row and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1 to 9.
ACROSS: 1 Copious, 4 Peeping Tom, 9 Attract, 13 Deck, 14 Impair, 15 Voodoo, 16 Command, 19 Telephoned, 20 Depleted, 21 Major, 24 Snails, 25 Endear, 27 Classmate, 32 Sapphire, 33 Squint, 34 Gesture, 38 Fletcher, 39 Locate, 40 Earn, 41 Vague, 42 Diets, 45 Run the gauntlet, 52 Balsa, 55 Herbs, 56 Eden, 57 Enough, 58 Vigorous, 61 Ignored, 62 Triple, 63 Insecure, 66 Astronomy, 68 Dreary, 69 Sprout, 73 Tepid, 74 Golf club, 76 Accelerate, 81 Trumpet, 82 Tomato, 83 Lodger, 84 Bier, 85 Regrets, 86 Understood, 87 Tolstoy. DOWN: 1 Cadet, 2 Peculiar, 3 Summon, 4 Phase, 5 Ears, 6 Invader, 7 Groups, 8 Ozone, 10 Took, 11 Remnant, 12 Censor, 17 Appliances, 18 Sense, 22 Behemoth, 23 Impel, 24 Stuffed, 26 Nail, 28 Lenient, 29 Appear, 30 Bureau, 31 Argues, 33 Slang, 35 Tiara, 36 Cede, 37 True, 43 Ice age, 44 Taboo, 46 Undo, 47 Tantrum, 48 Exempt, 49 Above, 50 Negligee, 51 Twitch, 52 Biographer, 53 Lion, 54 Assault, 59 Zebra, 60 User, 64 Snoop, 65 Botanist, 67 Swimmer, 68 Dubious, 70 Decree, 71 Please, 72 Deceit, 75 Frown, 77 Coded, 78 Early, 79 Bent, 80 Alto.
5x5
Insert the missing letters to complete ten words — five across the grid and five down. More than one solution may be possible.
MAINTENANCE
SECURE YOUR Home — security doors, grills, locks, bolts, stays, latches — supplied and installed. Phone 027 275 0918 or 09 439 6458 — Kevin Sowter or visit my website: www.windowanddoors.co.nz — Window & Door Services Ltd.
for Six’. Phone 021 639 552.
SECURITY
SECURE YOUR Home — security doors, grills, locks, bolts, stays, latches — supplied and installed. Phone 027 275 0918 or 09 439 6458 — Kevin Sowter or visit my website: www.windowanddoors.co.nz — Window & Door Services Ltd.
Closing date for classified advertising for the December 16 2025 edition is Monday, December 15 2025
CARPENTER/RENOVATOR specialising in General Repairs & Maintenance, and Kitchen Installs. (30yrs senior experience). Contact Mark 027 603 8323 or info@alteredestates.co.nz.
CARPET CLEANING, repairs, re-stretching, and patching. Flood drying and small carpet laying work and upholstery cleaning. Very fussy and reasonable prices. Phone Darren, Alltrades Carpet Services 0800 425 587 or 027 286 8584. Dargaville & surrounds.
MARINE PLYWOOD, New Prices 4, 6, 9, 12, 18mm. Scooters Plywood and joinery 09 438 6565.
PAINTER PLASTERER 40 years experience, can travel. Phone Gary Dixon 021 066 7505.
ROOFING REPAIRS & gutter cleaning. Local to Dargaville area. Phone 021 271 2065.
WANTED TO BUY
SUZUKI 4X4 Wanted to buy — parked, damaged or unwanted, Escudo Vitara/Grand Vitara. Phone Derek 09 439 7573.
WE BUY all Cars, Vans, Utes, Trucks and Buses in any condition dead or alive. Call 0800 333 398 or text 021 344 449.
WANTED TO RENT
DARGAVILLE AREA – One or two-bedroom unit for a female. Preferably in town. Please phone or text 027 741 3145.
ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS has 2 AA Meetings Weekly. Monday 4.30pm at the Church, corner Parore and Normanby Streets. Use side entrance. Thursday 7.30pm Anglican Church hall. 58 Hokianga Rd, up driveway. Parking at top. More help Phone 0800 229 6757.
DARGAVILLE HEALING rooms 7pm Tuesdays. No charge & no appointment necessary. Lion of Judah Building, River Road. All Welcome. Check us out on Facebook.
17th December 2025, 6pm at Clubrooms. Special Meeting 6.30pm resolving to re-register club under Incorporated Societies Act 2022
(Section 101, Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012)
M Willy & K Smith of Dargaville, has made application to the Kaipara District Licensing Committee for the renewal of an on-licence in respect of the premises situated at 101 Victoria St, Dargaville known as Blah blah blah Cafe/Bar
The general nature of the business conducted under the licence is Cafe
The days on which and the hours during which alcohol is sold under the licence are:
7 Days - 9am to 1am the following day.
The application may be inspected during ordinary office hours at the Kaipara District Licensing Committee at 32 Hokianga Road, Dargaville or Unit 5, 6 Molesworth Drive, Mangawhai.
Any person who is entitled to object and who wishes to object to the issue of the licence may, not later than 25 working days after the first publication of this public notice, file a notice in writing of the objection with the Secretary of the District Licensing Committee, Private Bag 1001, Dargaville 0340.
No objection to the renewal of a licence may be made in relation to a matter other than a matter specified in section 131 of the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012. This is the first publication of this notice.
(Section 101, Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012)
Haezal Enterprise Ltd of Paparoa, has made application to the Kaipara District Licensing Committee for the renewal and variation of an off licence in respect of the premises situated at 2024 Paparoa Valley Rd, Paparoa known as Paparoa Store
The general nature of the business conducted under the licence is Grocery Store
The days on which and the hours during which alcohol is sold under the licence are: Monday to Sunday 7am to 9pm.
The application may be inspected during ordinary office hours at the Kaipara District Licensing Committee at 32 Hokianga Road, Dargaville or Unit 5, 6 Molesworth Drive, Mangawhai.
Any person who is entitled to object and who wishes to object to the issue of the licence may, not later than 25 working days after the first publication of this public notice, file a notice in writing of the objection with the Secretary of the District Licensing Committee, Private Bag 1001, Dargaville 0340.
No objection to the renewal of a licence may be made in relation to a matter other than a matter specified in section 131 of the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012.
This is the first publication of this notice.
Brenda and Geoff, Vanessa and Greg and their families would like to thank everyone who visited Mum, phoned, sent cards, messages or flowers, did baking or cooking, helped care for Mum, or helped us or Mum in any way while she was sick and after her passing. It was all very much appreciated and meant so much to us all.
Last day of service 23rd December and will re-open on 19th January 2026
We encourage you to pre-book the Health Shuttle, if you have an appointment during our closed down period please contact us now as we may be able to help.
Phone Te Ha Oranga 439 3013.
During the shut-down phone 027 558 6272.
“It’s our pleasure helping people get to their health appointments”
Tōpu Ika o Ngāti Whātua will be held on Saturday 28 March 2026 at 9 00am
The venue will be Te Kia Ora Marae (Kakanui), 2271 Kaipara Coast Highway, Kakanui, Auckland AGENDA
1 Karakia and mihimihi
2 Apologies
3 Confirmation of Minutes of AGM held 2025
4 Presentation of 2024/2025 Annual Report and FInanc al Statements
5 Te Topu Ika o Ngāti Whātua Report
6 Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Whātua Strategic Plan
7 Presentation of 2025/2026 Annual Plan and Budget
8 Confirmation of Appointment of Auditors
9 General Business
10 Karakia Whakamutunga
Printed copies of the documents above will be available at the Annual General Meeting and electronically at:
www ngatiwhatua iwi nz/about-us/agm following the hui
In the event that the AGM cannot be held kanohi ki te kanohi (in-person) it will be held online via Zoom
Dated at Whangārei, 8 December 2025
Antony Thompson, Chief Operations Officer for Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Whātua
loved wife of 72 years to Ray. Much loved mother of Alan and Glenys, Lee and Pere, Kim and Jeff. Adored nana to 7 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren.
A farewell for Zoe will be held at the Homestead, 15 Seaview Rd, Baylys Beach on Friday,
Passed away peacefully on 5th December 2025, in Whangarei aged 85 years.
Loved daughter of Tom & Nancy Wells, late of Awakino Point, Dargaville. Loved sister and sister-in-law of John & Briar(deceased) of Mapua, Tasman. Merle & Ross Newlove of Dargaville. Favourite Aunty to Graham & Adele, Duncan & Anne-Marie, Kathryn & Craig, Pam, Wendy, Fiona & Tom.
A service for Ann will be held at the Holy Trinity Anglican Church, Dargaville, (58 Hokianga Road, Dargaville), at 1:00pm on Thursday 11th December 2025 followed by interment at the new Mt Wesley Lawn cemetery.
All communications to: The Wells family c/- PO Box 8043, Kensington, Whangarei 0145
Stan passed away peacefully on December 4th, 2025, in his 87th year. Loved younger son of the late Doris and Arthur Wordsworth.
Dearly loved brother and brother-in-law of Fay, Norman and Glenny, Iris and John McEwing (all deceased), and Wesley and Marylyn. Devoted uncle of his many nieces and nephews of the McEwing and Wordsworth families. Friend to many.
The Funeral service will be held at the Wesley Methodist Church, 8 Hokianga Road, Dargaville, on Friday, 12th December 2025 at 1 pm, followed by burial at Redhill Cemetery.
Next concert is
