A classic takes the stage Challenge looms to tip decision
u by Paul Campbell
A tribal gathering is set to challenge official iwi leaders who have effectively announced support for a huge dump for Auckland’s rubbish in the Dome Valley and the perceived threat of environmental and Kaipara Harbour pollution.
Tinopai Resource Management Unit
executive Mikaera Miru has charged the officials of three Ngāti Whātua groups with exceeding their role in publicly reversing opposition to the landfill. A hui involving six marae and 360 members has been set down for Sunday, July 20 at Puatahi Marae, which is located in the catchment region of the planned mega-landfill and the Hōteo River.
“A tribal hui has been called to knock these administrators off their pedestal,” he says.
“It will discuss our ongoing opposition to the landfill and make it clear to the Environment Court these people had no
authority from tribal members for doing what they did.”
The Environment Court is currently deliberating the Dome tip application from Waste Management in Auckland. It has heard wide-ranging objections to the dump from environmentalists as well as Forest and Bird and local government. At present, the court is seeking various clarifications from the parties involved.
Mr Miru has called for wide community support for the Puatahi meeting. “We expect karanga with a view to start the hui kaupapa at 10.30am.” Expected will be widespread marae members,
as well as Fight the Tip and the Tinopai Resource Management Unit “as well as local government councillors and likeminded objectors.”
Mr Miru is also a Fight the Tip executive member and told the recent Wellsford AGM: “We have to remember these people are only administrators who have run away with the ball and done this by stealth. They are in serious breach of customary law.”
The hui will discuss plans for the continuing opposition to the Waste Management Ltd dump plan and look at continuing fundraising suggestions to cover ongoing legal costs. ¢
p A young cast of Kaipara thespians opened their two-week run of Ian Fleming’s classic, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang Jr, this weekend, displaying skill in song, dance and acting that brought the beloved 1960s movie to life on stage. With one more week of performances to go, tickets are selling fast for a chance to see the rising stars of local theatre in action.
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Rates rises for local and regional councils
u by Andy Bryenton
Rates are going up for both the Kaipara District Council and the Northland Regional Council, with both civic bodies locking in small but significant rises in single digits.
Kaipara District Council has unanimously adopted its Annual Plan for 2025/2026, with an average rates rise of 8.3% after growth. This includes a targeted rate for museums, which was supported by a majority of respondents and ratified by a vote of councillors in May.
Initially, it was thought that the inclusion of this rate would push the overall rates increase more than 10 per cent, but this has not been the case, as savings have been found elsewhere by council staff.
“We understand that any rates increase can be challenging for many members of our community, but this represents a significant achievement for our small rating base, especially given the current national economic climate,” said mayor Craig Jepson.
For the KDC, roading remains the biggest item of expenditure. Thirty million dollars’ worth of capital expenditure on roads is planned for the coming year, with
a further $13 million in maintenance carried over.
Meanwhile, the Northland Regional Council has announced its own rates rise, which will be applied in tandem with the KDC’s when rates are collected for the next fiscal year. While a 5.79 per cent rise was projected, NRC staff have managed to wrestle this figure down to 3.54 per cent.
“We know that many people are finding things difficult financially in the current climate and have worked hard to keep our rates increase as low as possible,” said NRC chair Geoff Crawford. ¢
New start for future motocross stars
u by Andy Bryenton
The Dargaville Motocross and ATC Club has added a whole new track and a new class of racing to its venue at Redhill, with a focus on fostering future riders.
Extensive work has gone into crafting an entirely new beginner’s track, and nine months in, this addition to the Redhill site is now proving its worth to a cadre of very young riders. The 300-metre course is wide and flat with easy-to-navigate bermed corners, an S-bend section and a race-ready start and finish line. Along with the new track, there’s a new class of machines ready to ride.
“Electric balance bikes are now included,” says club spokesman Colin Rowse. “These small cycles, also known as stability cycles, are designed to help young children learn to ride, focussing on balance and coordination allowing children to build confidence.”
Electric bikes like these are small and light, with no loud engine or need for fuel. The young riders who get on board find them familiar, as they look and feel like a small BMX, just with the added fun of cruising with no pedals.
Parents who might be a little apprehensive about the mechanical
know-how required to keep a small petrol bike in racing trim are also reassured by the simple plug-and-recharge technology. Of course, electric bike riders still kit up in a helmet like those their bigger counterparts deploy.
Stepping up, youngsters who master the stability cycle can progress to small petrol motocross bikes, then the mini expert class, utilising 65cc machines on a third different course. Then it’s potentially on to a lifelong passion for racing.
Club days are on the third Sunday of each month, visit dargavillemx.nz to find out more. ¢
p Rates rises from both of the councils Kaipara citizens pay into are the result of necessary works projects and ongoing inflation
p Young riders looking to get a fresh start in motocross now have the option of quieter, easyto-master electric bikes
Smart planning for couples
u by Natalie Robinson, WRMK Lawyers
These days, relationships are more diverse than ever, and so are the financial arrangements that come with
For Kiwi couples, understanding contracting out agreements, often called pre-nuptial agreements or pre-nups, is
increasingly important.
Far from being just for the wealthy or those anticipating a split, these agreements are a sensible tool for many couples to ensure clarity and fairness in their financial future.
So, what exactly is a contracting out agreement? Put simply, it’s a formal, legally-binding document that allows couples to decide how their property will be divided if their relationship ends, either through separation or the death of one partner. Without such an agreement, the Property (Relationships) Act 1976 (PRA) dictates how relationship property is shared, generally assuming an equal split regardless of who contributed what. While the PRA aims for fairness, it doesn’t always suit every couple’s unique circumstances.
Think of it as a ‘no surprises’ policy for your financial arrangements. The ‘ick factor’ that once surrounded these agreements has largely disappeared, as people increasingly recognise the value of open communication and proactive planning. It’s about having an honest conversation with your partner about your individual financial situations and future aspirations, ensuring both parties feel secure and understood.
Why are these agreements such a good idea for couples these days? Life
is complex, and many relationships don’t fit into a one-size-fits-all legal framework.
Consider these scenarios:
The established homeowner
Imagine Sarah, who bought her cute house in town years before she met Mark. They’ve decided to move in together, and the house will become their family home. Under the PRA, if their relationship lasts three years or more and they separate, that home, even though Sarah owned it outright beforehand, would likely be considered relationship property and split equally. A contracting out agreement could specify that Sarah’s pre-existing equity in the house remains hers, while any increase in value or contributions made by Mark during their relationship would be considered relationship property. This provides peace of mind for both, acknowledging Sarah’s prior investment while also recognising Mark’s future contributions.
Blended families and inheritances
Consider David, a father of two adult children from a previous marriage, who is now in a new relationship with Helen. David has accumulated significant assets he intends to pass on to his children. Without a contracting out agreement, some of these assets could be subject
TIMBER SHEDS & SLEEP-OUTS
to division under the PRA if his relationship with Helen ends. A contracting out agreement can clearly outline which assets David wishes to preserve for his children, ensuring his wishes are respected and providing clarity for Helen, too. Similarly, if Helen were to receive a substantial inheritance during their relationship, an agreement could protect that inheritance as her separate property.
These agreements aren’t just for protecting existing assets. They can also be used when couples contribute unequally to a joint purchase, such as a first home, or when one partner has significantly higher earning power and wants to protect their separate financial future.
It’s crucial that these agreements are properly drafted and executed. Both parties must receive independent legal advice from their own lawyers. This ensures that everyone fully understands the implications of the agreement and that it is legally binding.
Ultimately, a contracting out agreement is a tool for communication and clarity within a relationship. It’s about empowering couples to make informed decisions about their financial future, ensuring that their unique circumstances are acknowledged and respected, rather than relying on a default legal framework that might not be the best fit for them. WRMK Lawyers has a highly experienced, specialist relationship property team, which is happy to discuss whether a contracting out agreement is right for you. ¢
Call for transparency on water
u by Andy Bryenton
A notice of motion tabled at the final council meeting of June has called for transparency on the deal struck between the Kaipara District Council and the Te Tai Tokerau Water Trust, amid allegations that ratepayers may not see an advantage from the arrangement.
‘This notice of motion has been brought forward out of concern that the current direction of discussions may result in increased water costs for Kaipara ratepayers, while failing to deliver a reliable or sustainable solution,’ wrote councillor Nayyar, in a missive seconded by councillor Paniora.
Councillor Nayyar took exception to what he typified as extensive use of publicexcluded negotiations, and went so far as to suggest that the water supply scheme and recent Mangawhai wastewater deliberations should be sent to the relevant ombudsman.
“I am very concerned that over the past years I have seen too much decided behind closed doors,” said Mr Nayyar.
Council CEO Jason Marris reiterated that ongoing contract negotiations and fiscal arrangements must, by necessity, be discussed privately. A contract between the KDC and the TTTWT is not yet complete.
However, councillor Paniora, who seconded the notice of motion, said she
was happy to bring important issues into an open forum.
It was councillor Paniora’s contention that the deal struck with the TTTWT for water supply is more about water stability for the commercial sector than about stopping crippling water restrictions in summer. The figure of $1 million was mentioned as already sent to the TTTWT for an arrangement which the councillor opines might actually push water rates up for residential users.
The notice called for the release of relevant information about water supply negotiations ‘to the extent permitted’, but was struck down by a majority vote. ¢
Councillor to step back
u by Andy Bryenton
Councillor Mike Howard has made the difficult decision to retire from political life at the end of the triennium, citing medical reasons for his absence from the 2025 ballot.
“For me, this latest council has been largely focussed on addressing significant issues, many left through prior councils’ process of ‘kicking the can down the road’ when faced with tough decisions,” says Mike, citing a successful suite of district, annual and fiscal plans completed.
As well as advances in roading, and in establishing a base for infrastructure investment, Mike says that he is especially proud of a good result for the Mangawhai surf lifesavers, financial prudence in keeping rates rises low, and a residents’ survey approval rating of 67% in his ward this year.
“Regrettably, during February and March this year I had a series of significant medical events,” says Mike. “Moreover, because I have loved so much of this opportunity, I wanted to acknowledge the ratepayers of Kaiwaka and Mangawhai for their faith, and for the pleasure I have had in representing you all.”
While regretfully bowing out of governance and the election race, Mike fully endorses the mayoral run
of his colleague Jonathan Larsen in his valedictory message.
“I reluctantly confirm I will be retiring after just one term. Not what I wanted, but it’s hard to ignore such strong medical advice. It has been great to work across the full district.
“I think it’s especially important that I acknowledge the absolute commitment from my fellow Kaiwaka–Mangawhai members, Rachael Williams, current mayor Craig Jepson, and future mayor Jonathan who I fully endorse to you all as the base of a strong team.” ¢
p Councillors voted down a notice of motion, which called for the public disclosure of negotiations about a new water supply source for Dargaville
p Councillor Mike Howard
Community kai gains funding
u by Andy Bryenton
Five Kaipara food security initiatives are growing, thanks to their share of the $182,000 Kai Ora Fund, which has awarded grants to community gardens for the fourth year in a row.
Ōtamatea High School, Ruawai Primary School, the Te Kopūru Community Trust, and the kaitiaki gardens at Nga Tai Whakarongorua Marae have all benefited from this grant in the past. This year, one of the recipients was the Maungatūroto Residents’ Association, which received funding to create a permaculture-style orchard space at the town’s centennial hall.
The group had planned an edible village garden concept for some time, and the Kai Ora fund helped to make this possible. Ground was broken last week at a working bee, as locals gathered to kick off the project. The vision is for a shared space with shared natural produce for all to enjoy.
“Kai Ora Fund is a humble grant, but what applicants have told us is that the Kai Ora Fund is the difference between many community initiatives happening and not being realised at all, and that’s really special to be part of,” said Kai Ora Fund partner Sasja Mazurkiewicz.
“What we’ve learnt is that food security looks different to different communities,
and over the years, we’ve seen really creative solutions to addressing some of the kai challenges we face in Northland.
“Kai Ora Fund supports those passionate people and groups who have the solutions and just need the resources to get their idea off the ground, so they can keep doing the things they know is best for their community.”
The 2026 funding round will open next February, so locals thinking about getting into sustainable kai for their communities are encouraged to plant the seeds of change now and be ready. ¢
2025
Local election announcement
u by Andy Bryenton
This week has seen another contender declare in the council election race, this time for the Northern Wairoa Ward.
Long-term Tangiterōria local Jan Beatty has announced that she will be standing for selection as councillors in the Wairoa Ward. She has been active in the Tangiterōria community since 1982, as a farmer, transport company operator, and as chair of the Upper Wairoa Memorial Park for nine years.
“Through this work, I developed skills, including mediation, financial planning and delivering value for money. I will bring these skills to the council table,” said Jan. “My aim is to be a voice not only for the rural communities but also for the towns in our area. Both town and country need to work together to help Kaipara prosper.” ¢
Vote for Raupō board is on
by Andy Bryenton
If you live in the Raupō Drainage District, it’s time to vote for a new committee to oversee the flood protection scheme.
An election has been called for the first time in several years to pick a panel of six local citizens, who will advise and inform the Kaipara District Council. It’s all going to be done by a postal ballot, so if papers do not reach you soon and you live in the area covered by the centuryold Raupō drainage scheme, please contact the Kasipara District Council to get yours.
Ian Beattie, Joseph Dragicevich, Kevin Evans, Greg Gent, David Hart,
Grace Le Gros and Ross McKinley have all been nominated for this important responsibility. The winners of the election will be decided by a first-pastthe-post majority.
The voting period ends at noon on Tuesday, July 29, giving residents nearly a month to register their vote. On that day, the Ruawai-Tokatoka Memorial Hall, in Ruawai, will be open to receive live votes from 9am until noon. ¢
p 155 Whakaora Kai volunteer Graham Rumble (left) and assistant Steve Gray deliver food to those in need thanks to Kai Ora funding
A holiday art solution
u by Paul Campbell
Come rain or come shine, The Kauri Museum has the answer to school holiday entertainment with a display of local artwork featuring six panels by Ōtamatea pupils that focuses on the importance of water.
“Six schools have contributed artwork to the annual Matariki exhibition at the Kauri Museum: Te Kura Kaupapa Māori te Ngaringaomatariki, Mangawhai Beach School, Maungatūroto School, Paparoa School, Matakohe School and Ruawai College,” said museum director Dr Jason Smith.
“Contributing students from Ruawai College attended a karakia and blessing ceremony at the museum. Te Uri o Hau kaumātua Christopher Thompson and kuia, Grace Le Gros, joined executives
and museum staff for a short ceremony to officially open the month-long exhibition.”
The museum is offering free entry to pupils and their families until the end of the school holidays on Sunday, July 13, and all children visiting the museum these holidays will be invited to complete a Matariki Crossword and enter a prize draw. The artwork will remain on display in the Volunteers’ Hall of the Kauri Museum for the rest of July. ¢
Out of Mind to follow Oscar Wilde
u by Andy Bryenton
The Dargaville Little Theatre’s season of The Importance of Being Earnest wrapped up with a triumphant double billing at the end of June, and it is followed by three local performances of the awardwinning one-act play, Out of Mind.
Director Adrian Humm was applauded by the cast, crew and crowd for his achievement in bringing Oscar Wilde’s classic to life. He thanked all those who had made his colourful modern adaptation possible, and reiterated that Wilde’s message, of being authentic and not having to hide one’s true nature, was as relevant today as in 1895.
“Go out there and love who you want to love. Don’t stop people loving who they want to,” said Mr Humm.
Comments from theatregoers were very positive, and covered praise for everything from the elaborate costumes to the ornate sets filled with real antiques donated by theatre supporters, and the performance of the actors.
‘An absolutely fabulous show’, ‘it brought the book we studied in school to life’ and ‘larger-than-life characters that made you laugh out loud’ were just some of the comments which graced social media following the three-week season.
Next up for the busy Dargaville stage is a trio of performances of Out of Mind, the one-act play local thespians will present in August, before an international crowd in Monaco. Shows at the DLT will let a local audience appreciate Out of Mind on July 11, 13 and 27, amid a tour taking in Kerikeri on July 12, and Whangārei on July 25.
Then, the Out of Mind team is off halfway around the world to the Mondial du Theatre, representing New Zealand, thanks to the generosity of local supporters and sponsors who continue to boost their fundraising efforts. ¢
p The cast and crew of The Importance of Being Earnest take a curtain call, as Out of Mind gets ready to take the stage ahead of a Monaco engagement in August
p Te Uri o Hau leaders, Ruawai College students and Kauri Museum staff and volunteers at the opening of the exhibition
Creating bright career pathways Election candidacy now open
u by Amy Fifita
Te Ha Oranga is hosting a rangitahi-led Youth Career Expo next month, bringing together services hard to access for rural communities.
Set to kick off at 10am on Friday, July 18, the threehour youth-led expo will showcase and offer opportunities for local youth at 43 Tirarau Street, Dargaville.
“I have one more year at school. This career expo will be good, so I can navigate different career opportunities and focus on what I must do to get there,” said youth leader Harlow Kapa. Harlow, Diamond and Kavelli PeihopaPatolo are organising the expo with support from Te Ha Oranga members, Maia Hemopo and Krystal Toka. The team is endeavouring to bring services together, so young people can access services and information in one place.
Te Wānanga o Aotearoa, House of Lashes and Brows, Dargaville Blue Light and Regent Training Centre are some of the organisations attending.
u by Paul Campbell
With the local body elections now just a couple of months away it is time for candidacy, and those people keen to stand can now get their nominations in. Electoral officer, Dale Ofsoske, says nominations opened on Friday, July 4 and will close at noon on Friday, August 1.
Anyone aged 18 and over can stand for election provided they’re a New Zealand citizen and enrolled on the parliamentary electoral roll.
“You must also be nominated by two electors whose names appear on the electoral roll within the respective constituency that a candidate is standing for,” said Ofsoske. He warned against leaving the lodgement of nomination papers to the last minute.
“Many of us not in school don’t get the support that students would get from school. Most rangitahi who live in the bush or on farms don’t get any support or have the opportunities that the cities provide,” said Diamond.
“The House of Lash and Brows owner has said she is offering a free lashing course to a rangitahi that normally costs $1,700. She also provides 30 days’ worth of equipment to help get them started.”
The team is thankful to the Silver Fern Farms for its sponsorship and welcomes any support people can provide. To offer support, contact Maia on 020 4178 4236. ¢
“Should a nomination paper be lodged late on the morning nominations close, and be incorrectly completed or ineligible nominators are provided, there may be insufficient time to correct the situation and the nomination paper could be invalidated.”
A wider range of candidates will contest the Northern Regional Council’s seven general constituencies — Far North, Coastal Central, Coastal South, Kaipara, Mid North, Whangārei Central and Bay of Islands–Whangaroa.
Nomination forms from Election Services websites and key election dates for all local body elections are:
• August 1 at noon — Candidate nominations close and roll closes;
• August 6 — Public notice of candidates’ names
• September 9–22 — Voting documents delivered
• October 7 — Last day for postal votes. After this date, votes must be returned to council’s secure ballot boxes. On election day, October 1, voting closes at midday with progress results thereafter, with results then declared from October 16–22. ¢
p Krystal Toka (far left) and Maia Hemopo (far right) are backing the leadership team, Harlow Kapa (second from left), Diamond Peihopa (third from left) and Kavelli Peihopa-Patolo
p Dale Ofsoske, electoral officer
Your most fundamental right?
Some people say that the concept of property rights is the basis of civilisation. Some say the idea of maximum freedom for the individual is more fundamental.
However, there’s something more important still. Beyond the right to own things, or the right to self-determination, stands the right to think about such things, to articulate them, to discuss them, and to understand them.
I’d argue that the most important building block of society is the idea, and that communication of complex ideas is what makes us human.
Why is this a topic of conversation? That’s because elections are looming, and that means, in the next few months, we are going to hear ideas we don’t agree with. Some might be downright offensive to us. So, it’s important to remember that being offended means that you hold the opinion that the person who has offended you is wrong, and not (as the Internet might have it) that the offended party is instantly, morally right.
Some of the issues are highly polarising. This often means they are very important. Economic fairness, meritocracy, the
environment, climate change, race relations; just a few of the topics on which we almost all have strongly held opinions. There’s a wild spectrum of them, frayed at both ends into what seems madness.
Still, no idea should be illegal. That’s not to say that there should not be rebuttal, and consequences, for putting forth an opinion or idea which could hurt people by its implementation. In fact, for every idea put forward, there should be an immediate and visible challenge.
It’s just that those consequences should be of a rhetorical nature; refutation, disputation with facts, a dismantling of illogic, even comprehensive embarrassment for those who say foolish things.
Except for the deliberate incitement of violence, and damaging slander, they ought not to be of a legal or judicial nature, though. When thought is criminalised, only the criminals will be able to think.
Discussed, the imbecility of the arguments for racism, misogyny and misandry, prejudice and deadly zealotry is plain. Left to fester in online echo chambers, they grow into a cancer. ¢
On the right to be GE free
The Kaipara District Council recently released its Proposed District Plan for public consultation, with an odd omission at a time when other councils are banding together to oppose extreme and undemocratic proposals in the controversial Gene Technology Bill.
The KDC plan as notified is currently silent on the important GE/GMO issue. This is despite Northland’s and Auckland’s valuable status as a GMfree food producer region, and the inclusion of strong precautionary and prohibitive GE/GMO provisions, policies and rules in the KDC Draft District Plan 2022.
During the previous round of public consultation, KDC received an overwhelming amount of supportive submissions on this important issue.
The Northland Regional Council and other submitters are urging KDC to rectify the omission in the Proposed District Plan, with NRC noting that ‘the Northland Regional Policy Statement
via Policy 6.1.2 directs a Precautionary approach to GE and GMO use where the effects are scientifically uncertain, unknown, or little understood but potentially significant.’
Given the direction in the Northland Regional Policy Statement, the concerns of farmers and tangata whenua, and the need for consistency with adjoining District Plans, it is considered appropriate to reference and control these matters in the Kaipara District Plan.
It is critically important that KDC continues to work in a collaborative and fiscally responsible manner with all the other councils of Northland and Auckland. Contamination by GE does not respect boundaries, and known vectors, including seeds, pollen, vegetative material, soils, waterways, animals, insects, machinery and extreme weather events, would not only cause problems in Kaipara itself but the wider Northland rohe.
Martin Robinson
GE Free Northland spokesman
Times Gone By
All hands on deck
This group of Aratapu mill employees posed for a photo a few short years before the timber mill was closed by the Kauri Timber Company for good in 1906, when it was realised the kauri supply was running low in millable trees. Much of the infrastructure was moved the same year the mill was closed.
Governor’s first visit to Kaipara
The governor visited Paikea and Arama Karaka at Tanoa after proceeding from Helensville in the Sturt. His Excellency said he was glad to visit Paikea and Arama Karaka, and was glad to see the pakehas and Maoris living on such friendly terms at Kaipara.
Daily Southern Cross, October 27 1869
Hotel fire
Inspector Broham received a telegram at 5pm on Saturday from Constable Inger to the effect that the Point Curtis Hotel at Kaipara was destroyed by fire at 5am on Saturday morning. No further particulars are to hand. Mr John Curtis was the owner of the hotel.
Auckland Star, April 8 1889
Promoting Kaipara online
u by Andy Bryenton
The Kaipara district now has a website to rival any of those found in other tourist regions of New Zealand, following the launch of a new online portal to showcase the region.
Economic Development lead Paul Thompson identified the need for a modern, engaging website early in his tenure, and a team headed by Misty Sansom delivered a thoroughly up-to-date design aesthetic for the Internet asset, which encourages visitors to ‘come up to Kaipara’ for a variety of compelling reasons.
These span reasons to take a holiday or a road trip, all the way through to reasons to establish a business in Kaipara or make the district a permanent home. Extensive artistic photography, a cohesive graphic design language and optimisation for viewing on tablets and mobile devices make this website a match for any similar web portal serving any other Kiwi community.
“The website has been a labour of love for so many, it’s exciting to be launching it,” said Misty Sansom, at Dargaville’s launch event last week.
“We’re looking forward to working with you to tell everyone how amazing Kaipara is.”
Two launch evenings were hosted in Mangawhai and Dargaville, with a receptive crowd hearing about the concept behind the website and its aim to make Kaipara ‘the place to be’.
The website went live on Thursday, June 26, and is now able to be viewed and explored at kaipara.org.nz. The Kaipara District Council has worked closely with Northland Inc, the regional promotions organisation, to make this endeavour possible. ¢
p A large group of community stakeholders gathered in Dargaville last Tuesday to get a pre-launch look at the new Kaipara promotional website
Free upskill in literacy
u by Andy Bryenton
The Rural Youth and Adult Literacy Trust is offering its services free of charge to help people who are not confident with reading to sharpen up their skills.
“One of the most interesting statistics on literacy in New Zealand is that it’s not just about people who cannot read and write. About 11 per cent of Kiwis struggle with literacy issues every day,” says trust community ambassador, Rory Dean.
This locks people out of a lot of things in life, and makes it hard to operate in a world of contracts, written information, news and emails. For some, the ability to read and write is there, but it’s a matter of confidence. Others were let down by older methods of teaching, and may have been falsely told that their different learning style made them mentally less sharp than their classmates.
That’s nonsense, says Rory. There are thousands of people out there who have huge knowledge and skills, but struggle with literacy. The RYALT is a free service for people in rural areas who want to upskill. All they need is an Internet connection, and they’ll be paired with a volunteer tutor at no cost.
“To really get ahead in life and business, this is an important skill, but it’s one anyone can learn. There’s no judgement, just like going to the gym to get fit, going online to improve your literacy is all about self-improvement, so it’s making you stronger,” Rory said.
Run by volunteers since 2011, the RYALT is keen to help Kaipara locals get the most out of reading and writing. If you know someone who might want to boost their skills, give them a call on 0800 891 339. ¢
Join in with Kaipara outreach
u by Andy Bryenton
The newly launched Kaipara promotional website, which is featured just across the page, is a perfect option to become part of a who’s who of local attractions.
Local community clubs, groups and businesses have been invited to get in touch with the masterminds behind the new website, which seeks to disclose the enticements and attractions of Kaipara to the wider world.
To be a part of this outreach, take a look at the new website at kaipara.org. nz, and check out some of the existing listings for cafes, restaurants, shops and interesting sights to see. If you would like to be part of this initiative, you can get in touch with the site’s moderators by scrolling to the bottom of the screen and filling in the details under the contact menu.
The eventual aim is to present the full range of the region’s vibrant culture, history, heritage and potential to those seeking a place to visit or a place to live and work. Other regions of New Zealand have leveraged similar
web content into big tourist numbers; the global reach of the Internet means that people all over the world can take a closer look before they even book their flights. ¢
p Getting better with words is a skill anyone can learn, and it’s a stepping stone to knowledge
Fantasy adventure takes flight
u by Andy Bryenton
Opening weekend of the Ōtamatea Repertory Theatre’s season of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang Jr has seen the young cast achieve a triumph, bringing Ian Fleming’s colourful adventure story to the Kaipara stage.
Based on the classic movie, and featuring a cast of 50 and an iconic flying car, the stage show was timed to coincide with the school holidays, and
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will continue to run this week, including matinee afternoons on Saturday and Sunday.
While the heroes and villains of the story are brought vividly to life, one of the stars of the show is the elaborate replica of Caractacus Potts’ magical flying car itself, a locally handmade centrepiece.
“It is very exciting and a great privilege to direct this iconic show. The writers of this junior production suggested Chitty be put together using a group of the children, but I felt we needed to build an actual car as it is such an integral part of the production,” says director Peter Flower.
with the exceptional performance of Dick van Dyke. However, I think these kids have given it their best shot.”
It’s well worth noting that they have succeeded, too. Those who have seen the rehearsals and followed the progress of the cast have all been impressed.
As well as being a fantastical story with memorable dance routines, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang Jr is, at its heart, a musical, and that means the young actors have also mastered a songbook of well-known pieces from the cinematic original.
“Generations of children have grown up with Chitty with its mix of fantasy, drama, romance and intrigue. This is reflected in a record 50 cast members, whose talent, energy and enthusiasm have made my job so much easier and enjoyable.”
“For Chitty Chitty Bang Bang Jr, I’ve returned to the stage — this time as the
Business and Home IT Support
Business Support including:
• Proactive maintenance & support
• Hardware supply & maintenance
• WIFI design, setup & fine tuning
• Printer supply, setup & support
• Backup and Disaster Recovery planning
• Web Hosting
• Office 365 / Azure setup & migration
• Antivirus/firewall TDR EDR
Home Support including:
• Computer upgrades & repair
• New computer supply & data migration
• Setup cloud & local backup
• Smart TV setup
• WIFI design & configuration
• Printer Supply & setup
• Antivirus & security advice
• Friendly, straight forward approach
Contact Wayne 0800 2 NETWORK (0800 263 896) or 022 648 5713 visit our website www.kaiparait.co.nz or email support@kaiparait.co.nz
choreographer,” says Alex Harris, who helped bring the show’s many dance segments to life.
“Although I have choreographed Stage Challenge items in my teen years, this is my first experience of creating routines for a full show. I find that working with the youngsters is very rewarding, and nerve-wracking.
“It is a thrill to bring one of my childhood favourites to life. It’s hard to compete
“There are many challenges with the music: lightning-fast lyrics requiring great articulation, singing in parts, dancing while singing, and incorporating text with underscoring,” says musical director Maura Flower.
“Our wonderful cast is a blend of some very experienced vocalists, and some who are just starting out. I am delighted with them all, and I heartily applaud their dedication and talent.” ¢
p The wicked Baron and Baroness of Vulgaria take time off from their villainous plans to dance, in the ORT’s current production of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang Jr
New flavour in town
u by Amy Fifita
Inspired by culture and food, Shalini and Davender Singh began Blackstone Eatery to give locals and travellers a taste of what they represent.
“We have lived in Kaipara, for about six years in Kaiwaka, and were looking for a business when this came to our attention, so we jumped in,” said Shalini.
“My passion was baking, and whenever we had visitors, we wanted to make them great food, it is in our culture.”
With a desire to feed guests with delicious food from their home, Shalini and Davender craft meals and treats from their roots.
“As an Indian, onion bhaji and samosas are the two recipes I adore, and during the markets, I used to sell them, including fundraising for charity and schools. My husband’s speciality is butter chicken and other chicken curries. We want to have food that reflects us, too, instead of only European food.
“Most of the community from Paparoa, Maungatūroto, Matakohe and Kaiwaka all come here and enjoy the butter chicken and onion bhaji.”
European food is also served, starting with a pie in the morning. The eatery provides meals for breakfast, lunch and
dinner, offering various meals for guests to delight in. From the first day it opened, the community has shown their appreciation for having the new eatery in town.
“When we opened, we thought we would have to slowly build the business, but the people here have been incredibly supportive.
“On our first night, we ran out of half of our stock because we had to serve so many people. The community has been very supportive, and we always encourage people to give us feedback so we know what we can improve on.
“The biggest enjoyment we get is when a customer dines in and says it is the greatest food.”
Wanting to enhance the business, the eatery plans on providing naan bread and order times. The shop has also had a landline set up so people make contact easier. For orders, call 09 431 0080 or text 022 065 5382. ¢
Barry Underwood Ph: 027 498 7745 or 09 431 8078 Adam Exler Ph: 021 460 974 E: debazz1709@gmail.com
p Shalini and Darvender Singh enjoy providing meals inspired by their culture to the people of Kaipara
MOBILE SERVICES
Safety and supply
From cowsheds to subdividing, Northland Power Services has all your rural electrical supply needs covered.
Providing the Northland farming community with complex electrical work, NPS is an approved contractor for Northpower and Top Energy. Services include trenching and cable laying, private line maintenance, service connection and high voltage cable jointing.
“The field team and I are all exNorthpower employees. We have been around for over four years operating as Northland Power Services — also known as NPS,” said Alister Bain.
“NPS has a team of five, and loves getting out there and meeting new people, while helping the farmers and giving them a fair price.”
In the rural space, the company provides free service line inspections for farmers, ensuring livestock are safe and the farm has a reliable power supply. NPS is a reliable contractor with machinery to get across rough terrain.
“Some farmers may not be aware that they own and are responsible for the maintenance of the lines inside their property, feeding structures like cowsheds and pump sheds. These lines require maintenance.
“When Northpower sends out unsafe service line forms, farmers have to engage contractors like us to go out and make the repairs.”
Alister encourages farmers to get ahead of the game and get preventative maintenance done on the lines before an issue arises. It saves the hassle of repairing service lines when they break, often during storms and other emergencies.
“Issues that can arise are broken wooden poles from rot or wear and tear, snapped
crossarms and broken conductors that can break and fall. Fuses can often blow, leading to cattle death.
“After the free line check, NPS offers suggestions, saving you from unwanted power outages and electrocuted stock.
“NPS can also build new powerlines for farmers wanting to get 11,000-volt lines to their cowsheds, we can design and build that, and Northpower can take ownership of it.”
The services don’t stop there. Offering land development services, whether it is chopping your backyard into an extra lot or creating a subdivision, the team can perform.
“If you are looking at subdividing your land and needing the power to the boundary to sell it, then we can do that, too. We take care of the design stage, submit it to Northpower or Top Energy, get approval and send it back for you (the owners) to get their sign off.”
Having had extensive experience in the industry, NPS can cater to all of your maintenance and power supply needs. For further information, visit northlandpowerservices.co.nz or contact Alister on 021 195 6099. ¢
p The Northland Power Services team works in residential, commercial and rural settings
Rewards for environmental protection
u by Andy Bryenton
An ambitious plan to reward landowners who protect biodiversity voluntarily has been tabled by the coalition government.
Associate Environment and Agriculture
Minister Andrew Hoggard announced moves to start a pilot scheme for the trading of voluntary nature credits at National Fieldays, and has since elaborated on the idea in a speech to the New Zealand Farm Trust’s alumni.
Core to the concept is that landowners and conservation groups will be able to
gain credits, similar in nature to those used to denote sequestered CO ² , for areas of wilderness, bush and wetlands in their care. It’s a combination of an incentive to protect significant areas of natural importance, with fiscal pragmatism.
An example is Te Toa Whenua Northland, led by Reconnecting Northland. This group is transitioning around 100ha from exotic forestry to native, including pest control on iwi-owned land. Under the new scheme’s pilot programme, this will earn tradeable credits. Proponents of the plan see this as a much better way to engage in the carbon trade than planting pines on productive farmland, but it’s also voluntary, unlike the now-scrapped plan of mapping and enforcing Significant Natural Areas (SNAs) on private land.
p Andrew Hoggard is calling a new scheme for voluntary biodiversity protection “the carrot, not just the stick”
This contentious policy was quickly done away with by the coalition government, and councils no longer have to identify and map SNAs, after the suspension of parts of the National Policy Statement on Indigenous Biodiversity.
• Full range of General Earthworks s available; including g Dams, Roads and d House sittes
• 13 Ton Digger r with S Shear Grab, foor controlled d Limbing, Toopping g or r Removal of Treees and branches s
• Perfect for around d S Sheds, Roaads, Race ways, Feence lines s and d Water waays
• Modern Eqquipment t with exxperienced d operators
“Farmers and other private landowners are doing their part to protect native biodiversity and want to do more. Supporting voluntary nature credit markets is a chance for the government to show them the carrot, not just the stick,” said Mr Hoggard.
In 2024 New Zealand investors spent more than $20 million on voluntary nature and carbon credits. However, the bulk of this investment went offshore, due to a lack of available Kiwi projects ready to be invested in.
Mr Hoggard opined that New Zealand exports rely on the nation’s clean green environmental image, with 80 per cent of exports, worth $59.6 billion, headed to markets where environmental, social and governance reporting is required.
While the pilot is seen as a positive step by many, opponents note that the idea of a credit system still remains debatable, in that companies are offsetting pollution rather than curtailing it. Nevertheless, for farmers who not long ago were concerned that areas of their privately-owned land could be locked down by SNA rulings, Mr Hoggard’s announcement is a breath of fresh air.
The decision to push ahead with a tradeable scheme for voluntary protection of privately-owned areas of land comes following government plans to grant an extra $4.5 million to the QEII Trust. The trust has supported voluntary conservation efforts by landowners since its inception in 1977.
“Many of our most at-risk plants and animals are found on private land,” said Conservation Minister Tama Potaka. “Landowners provide a significant contribution to conservation efforts through additional planting, pest control and fencing work.” ¢
A dog’s tail … Boss happy ina whether ’cos of footy
“Blimmin’ forecasts can be a bitofa wurry eh Deah?” seda Boss wile we looked atta rein fallin’ in sheets across tha house paddick. We was havin’ smoko ina homested kitchen ’cos ofa rein, and Boss’s gerlfren’ Sharlene said he was rite.
“Yes Deah, accordin’ to the weather on my komputa, we having high winds and thunderstorms an’ hail today.” Boss slurped his cuppatees an’ had another scone. Sharlene broke a bit of hers and dropped at me nose under the table. Ta, I thort. Then she flicked opin her komputa she lets me right my kolum on, and tole tha Boss: “You an’ Billy might as well cancel any farm work for the restofa day Deah. Didn’t you see tha footy skedule?”
Boss snorted — “course Deah, we gotta All Blacks playin’ tomite.” But Sharlene giva smile and said “them BlackFerns is up ina minite in Whangārei playin’ against a Black Ferns 15 ter see who will make the world cup side. Now that’s always good footy.”
But Boss was outta his chair ina second an’ ran to tha lounge and turned ona house TV. It hada big screen too, like tha one ina woolshed. Nek thing we heard was a crowd yellin’, an’ pritty soon, we all three were ona couch watchin’ the game. Well readas, that was just the start ona farm. Rain outside, an’ wen the ladies had a grate time ona paddick, an’ the Black Ferns won over tha Black Ferns XV by 45–12. But Sharlene an’ Boss rekined that Ruby Tui should rilly get a trip to that world cup too, an’ I gived Sharlne a nose nudge
ter agree with her. But nek thing, Boss was cheerin’ on the Māori ABs having a go atta team of Scottish blokes. But he went a bit quiet afta wot he called ‘them Jocks’ hada win 29–26.
But wen tha game ended, Sharlene said “just think, two massive footy events in little ole Northland. No need ter drive ta Orklind, so maybe we shood have gone to the match.” But Boss lookt at me. “Nah Deah, Dog gotta watch, too.” Good onya Boss. But then she pointed atta lounge window. “Sun, Deah, might be time ter just check outside. Boss an’ me did a quick trip on new Feel Daze quod upa kattil race to tha hill tank and looked across tha proppitty. Bit of floodin’ along tha creekflats, but no problims wiva stock. Then it was back down fer tea an’ roast leg o’ hogget I cood smell. Maybe a shank fer me tea, too?
But it wasint long before we hada TV on again wiv a fire ina grate and on came the blimmin’ ABs against wot boss called tha Froggys, an’ Sharlene called the Roostas, ana TV man said was Les Blues. But they was wearing white shirts, so I got a bit confused but I worked it out, and Boss sed, after the
ABs just managed to win, that “anyone who reckined the French (‘cos, readas, I get things rite eh?) we gonna be easy, got another thing comin’.”
“Mine you,” Boss sed, “two tries killed by tha ref was a bit ofa wurry. Boys maybe gotta tidy up.”
Well readas, Sharlene hadda papa froma kattil sto atta gate nek day, an’ it was going on about thunder and hail whether, but Boss sed “wile it wasa bit sad down country, at least up hear we hada footy to keep us happy.”
That’s rite readas. Roll on nek Satiday. See ya — Billy ¢
storage shed and woolshed Set on 2.1 hectares subject to issue of title.
and
Rural and Picturesque View
This section is approximately 1.373 hectares (subject to title issue) and is located halfway between Whangarei and Dargaville, with good road access from State Highway 14 It has some good infrastructure with a large, enclosed barn with covered walkway and power to the boundary along with a Geotechnical Report ready The land with easy contour also has some wooden yards and a couple of paddocks new fencing has been done around the section. With rural and picturesque views and is part of a great community with schooling opportunities and community events at the local centre at Tangiteroria. $355,000 GST Inclusive
By Appointment Only
Banicevich E mbrowning@pggwr ghtson.co.nz M 027 668 8468 Megan Browning
021 999 591
bbanicevich@pggwrightson.co.nz
July
Matakohe ‘Mid Winter Christmas’ Community Potluck — Matakohe Memorial Hall, 10 Church Road, Matakohe. 12 July. From 4pm onwards, dinner 6pm. Family friendly event. Fundraising to maintain a community defibrillator.
Tangiteroria Burger Night — 18 July @ Tangiteroria Community Complex. Open 6pm.
Baylys Beach Society — 25 July Fundraising Quiz Night. 56 View Rd, Baylys Beach. Open 6.30pm, $15pp. Contact Tracy 021 883 437 to register your team.
Inland Revenue Clinic — 29 July at Heartland Sevices, Whanau Focus Building, 61 Victoria Street, Dargaville. Bookings essential. Phone 09 439 7009 or 022 453 765.
August
Tangiteroria Burger Night — 1 August @ Tangiteroria Community Complex. Open 6pm.
Northland Inc – Growth Advisor Visit — The Seed Office, Fosters Arcade, 36 Victoria St, Dargaville, 13 August. Book in for a FREE Discovery meeting with one of our Growth Advisors. Email: growth@northlandnz. com for more information.
Tangiteroria Burger Night — 15 August @ Tangiteroria Community Complex. Open 6pm.
Tangiteroria Burger Night — 29 August @ Tangiteroria Community Complex. Open 6pm.
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 Normanby & Parore Sts. Use Parore St entrance. Monday 4.30pm & Thursday 7.30pm. Contact Bernie 027 212 2148, Ladies 020 4082 1373, Murray 09 439 5248.
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 10am, 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 — 61 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 to find out more.
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 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 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 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. Tues 9.30am. Thurs 6pm. New Beginners class starting 15 July. Pono Lodge. Mats available. Find us on FB Stretch Your Bodhi Yoga. 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.
THE KAIPARA LIFESTYLER IS PUBLISHED WITH PRIDE BY INTEGRITY COMMUNITY MEDIA, A PRIVATELY OWNED KAIPARA COMPANY.
Phone: 09 439 6933 or 0800 466 793 Email: info@thelifestyler.co.nz
Postal Address: PO Box 474, Dargaville Physical Address: 107 River Road, Dargaville
Publisher: Allan Mortensen 021 439 697 allan.mortensen@integrity.nz
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@thelifestyler.co.nz
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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. 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 — Thursdays 3.15pm–5.15pm Junior Rides 10 years and older; 5.30pm–7pm Women’s Rides; 5.30pm–7pm Adult Rides. Meet at Time To, Normanby Street.
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 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.
9 3:08 am (0.9m)
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 — Sundays, 3–4pm at Kaipara Community Centre, 38 Hokianga Rd. $2 per person. Txt Kirsty 021 0818 7902 for more info. Rotary Club of Dargaville — Weekly at 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, phone Sarah 021 772 822. Tuesdays: Yoga 6pm, phone Sharon 021 981 135, $15 per session. Wednesdays: Indoor Bowls (fortnightly in summer, weekly in winter) 6pm, phone Mel 021 772 822; Squash, phone Donna 021 761 022; Exercise Room, phone Mel 021 772 822. We ask participants are a Complex Member for all 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.
TIDE
TUE 15 4:18 am (0.6m) 10:34 am (2.5m) 4:29 pm (0.5m) 11:01 pm (2.6m)
PUZZLE TIME
69 Hat type (6)
73 Reflection (5)
74 Bewitches (8)
76 Clawing at (10)
81 Easily moulded, bent (7)
82 Of flowers (6)
83 Use up (6)
84 Festival (4)
85 General pardon (7)
(8)
Pay (5)
Gloomy and ill-
(6)
25 Give a face-lift to (6)
(9)
(6)
(8)
Place (7)
Incarcerate
55 Muscle twitch (5)
56 Main castle tower (4)
57 Shared (6) 58 Grappling combatant (8) 61 Continue obstinately (7)
62 Up-to-date (6) 63 Ban (8) 66 Remiss (9) 68 Instead of (2,4)
86 Extremely irate (7,3)
87 Passed along (7)
DOWN
1 Sprinted (5)
2 Government department (8)
3 Hire (6)
4 Blockade (5)
5 Skin problem (4)
6 Patella (7)
7 Biblical mountain in Turkey (6)
8 Praise (5)
10 Part of the eye (4)
11 Greatest (7)
12 Early architectural style (6)
17 Stretchiness (10)
18 Like-mindedness (5)
22 Seasoned smoked beef (8)
23 Out of condition (5)
24 Fortified white wine (7)
26 Repeat (4)
28 Swaggering bluster (7)
29 Parting expression (2,4)
30 Fold mark (6)
31 Plaster wall coating (6)
33 Outrider (5)
35 Consumption (5)
36 Colourful gemstone (4)
37 Ardour (4)
43 Became void (6)
44 Desert green spot (5)
46 Comply with (4)
47 Exploded cereal (7)
48 Silvery metal (6)
49 Mortal (5)
50 Stack of firewood (8)
51 Skin (6)
52 Teetotalism (10)
53 Grain store (4)
54 Voracious fish (7)
59 Sacred song or hymn (5)
60 Heart (4)
64 Great pain (5)
65 Lone (8)
67 Etch (7)
68 Pancreas product (7)
70 Symbol (6)
71 Remove coverings (6)
72 Long flag (6)
75 A greeting (5)
77 Managed (5)
78 Three-legged piano (5)
79 Coagulate (4)
80 Joint line (4)
Sudoku
Fill the grid so that every column, every row and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1 to 9.
ACROSS: 1 Often, 4 Watchful, 9 Caries, 14 Drill, 15 Rub up the wrong way, 17 Occur, 18 Elm, 19 Uttered, 20 Caressing, 21 Teased, 24 Microchip, 25 Thesis, 26 Circle, 29 Adulterate, 31 Ill, 32 Seesaw, 33 Beef, 35 Eve, 37 Gobi, 39 Orang-utan, 40 Affluence, 41 Troll, 42 Incensed, 47 Fettered, 51 Palms, 55 Circuitry, 56 Tarantula, 58 Dire, 59 Bar, 60 Rout, 61 Engage, 62 Ash, 63 Widespread, 66 Rotate, 67 Biased, 69 Tableware, 72 Mortar, 73 Mortician, 75 Winning, 77 Duo, 80 Ulcer, 81 Keep under one’s hat, 82 Equip, 83 Propel, 84 Speeding, 85 Alley. DOWN: 2 Flustered, 3 Exude, 5 Area, 6 Car-wash, 7 Fingerprints, 8 Lawns, 9 Cayenne, 10 Riot, 11 Exceed, 12 Tired, 13 Glimpse, 14 Drastic, 16 Treacherous, 22 Sonata, 23 Liberal, 24 Malaise, 25 Talent, 27 Cleaner, 28 Raffle, 30 Edgy, 32 Señor, 34 Field, 36 Rust, 38 Own, 42 Incur, 43 Corrupt, 44 Nous, 45 Extend, 46 Globe, 48 Translation, 49 Endorse, 50 Err, 51 Pyramid, 52 Strand, 53 Architecture, 54 Snow, 57 Undoes, 64 Advantage, 65 Stirrup, 66 Readied, 68 Snorkel, 70 Bearded, 71 Saucer, 72 Mogul, 74 Tiers, 76 Nasal, 78 Crop, 79 Grin.
5x5
Insert the missing letters to complete ten words — five across the grid and five down. More than one solution may be possible.
KAIPARA SERVICE DIRECTORY
KAIPARA SERVICE DIRECTORY
today at A+ Electrical Inspections and Security on 021 240 6764.
HAY FOR Sale, Omamari. Phone 09 439 5927 or 027 307 8786.
TOP SOIL, conditioned top quality. 100% suitable for vege gardens or new lawns. $85 per m³ onto your trailer, or truck deliveries available for larger orders. Phone 021 132 4107 or 09 439 5141.
TOYOTA COROLLA 2006 silver, 5dr hatchback JGY875. Current WOF & REGO both expiring September 2025. New tyres & battery. 123,000km, tidy condition, $7,000. Phone John 027 525 8189.
NOTICES TE KOROWAI O IHU KARAITI, Dargaville Church of the Nazarene, 4 Grey Street. Church service on every Sunday at 3pm. Bible study/prayer Wednesday from 4.30pm-7.15pm. Legacy/Man Up, Thursdays from 6.30pm–8.30pm (during school term).
FENCING, ALL types of fencing, pool, stockyards, post & rail, boundary plus… call Jeff 027 476 5458.
SHRUBS, TREES, Hedging, Grasses and much more ready now. Got2Go Plants, 55 West Coast Road, Te Kopuru. Eftpos available, phone 09 439 5556 or 027 488 3400.
CLASSIFIEDS
TRADES & SERVICES
19MM H3.2 Plywood Various Grades Scooters Plywood 09 438 6464.
CARPENTER/BUILDER specialising in General Repairs & Maintenance, and Kitchen Installs. (30yrs senior experience). Contact Mark 027 604 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.
TREE SERVICES
PROFESSIONAL QUALIFIED arborists. For all your tree needs — removal, chipping, trimming. Get the right team for the job. TEAM VEGETATION 09 439 0050.
TREE REMOVAL, pruning, chipping & stump grinding. Qualified & insured. Phone Scott 0800 468 9663 Arborcare Tree Maintenance.
SITUATIONS VACANT
We
worksites.
The right applicant will:
• Be physically fit and reliable.
• Have good communication skills.
• Be able to work and contribute in a team.
• Be competent in record keeping.
• Have a clean Class 2 driver licence.
Remuneration will be discussed with the successful applicant. Minimum of 5 years experience required. Please phone and leave a message on 021 939 226.
FARM MANAGER
Woodleigh Belgian Blues Ruawai, Northland
Opportunity to manage a unique beef breeding operation - the home of Kiwi Blues.
Position requires broad range of livestock farming skills, an interest in breeding high performance beef cattle, attention to detail and preparedness to commit to the job.
Quality assured farm of 338HA with up to 600 pedigree cattle. Enquiries to: lock@xtra.co.nz
PHONE 09 439 6933
Closing date for classified advertising for the July 15 2025 edition is Monday, July 14 2025
PEER SUPPORT WORKERS
Are you passionate about using your lived experience to support others on their recovery journey?
Whakamana Tangata offers peer support health and wellbeing to people in our local communities, in a holistic and kaupapa Māori service, mostly based at our Hub in Dargaville.
We are looking for experienced and new peer support workers to join our team in Dargaville. Two part-time positions are available. For further information and the application form, contact Whakamana Manager, on 021564618. Applications close 05 July or when filled. Send cv to admin@whakamanatangata.co.nz
EXPRESSION OF INTEREST
PIPELINE INSTALLATION AND MATERIAL SUPPLY EOI
Te Tai Tokerau Water Trust (the Trust) is seeking to expand the Distribution Networks associated with the Community Water Schemes within Northland.
The Trust is seeking small to medium sized, locally based contractors to undertake the installation works, and a reputable supplier of PE pipe and associated valves and fittings.
The Trust invites interested parties to respond to the Expression of Interest (EOI) in regard to the following three opportunities:
1. Installation of approximately 15km of PE Pipeline in the western Dargaville area.
2. Installation of approximately 15km of PE Pipeline in the Waimate North / Ohaeawai area.
3. Supply of Pipe, Values and Fittings for approximately 30kms of Pipeline. Expressions of Interest will close Friday 18th of July at 12pm.
For further details, and to register your interest, please email info@taitokerauwater.com
PUBLIC NOTICES
ACOUSTIC MUSIC Blackboard Concert — Next concert is the 2nd of October 2025, first Thursday of the month — 7–9.30pm. Kaipara Community Centre, Hokianga Road, Dargaville. $2 entry, $2 raffle. Performers and audience welcome. Phone Allan 09 439 6933 or 021 439 697. An enjoyable night to be part of, sit back and be entertained by some great local talent.
ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS both Dargaville AA Meetings are held at the church, corner Parore and Normanby Streets. Use Parore St entrance. Monday 4.30pm & Thursday 7.30pm. Phone Bernie 027 212 2148, Ladies 020 4082 1373, Murray 09 439 5248.
DARGAVILLE HEALING rooms 7pm Tuesdays. No charge & no appointment necessary. Lion of Judah Building, River Road. All Welcome. Check us out on Facebook.
Pahi Regatta Club will be having their AGM
At the Clubrooms at 7pm on Monday 14th July 2025
KCC AGM
5.30pm Friday 25th July 38 Hokianga Rd Dargaville
DEATH NOTICES
and
HNM 2025 Limited of Maungaturoto, has made application to the Kaipara
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 issue of a licence may be made in relation to a matter other than a matter specified in section 105(1) of the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012.
This is the second publication of this notice. The first was published 1st of July 2025.
husband of Cath.
Father of Mike & Paula, Aimee & Dean
Josh & Kirsty.
Poppa of Kaylah & Liam, Ashlee & Gordon, Sharna, Olivia, Lara and Ava.
