Basketball ambition takes flight
Matariki rising
As the stars of the Pleiades rose above the horizon with dawn last week, people came out to celebrate the new beginnings and reflective reminiscences of Matariki with friends and whānau. Across Kaipara events took place to commemorate the traditional start of a new year in the Māori celestial calendar — a uniquely Kiwi holiday.
Young Kaipara basketball athlete Isaiah Pere will travel to Las Vegas in the US in just under a month’s time, to …
Students at St Joseph’s School celebrated the Māori New Year with vibrant art, singing and food last Thursday
The queue for face painting was as long and enthusiastic as the one for hot kai, as a celebration gathered crowds in Dargaville’s Riverside Gardens
Kim Newall and Dr Maggie Buxton of AwhiWorld were on hand at the Whānau Focus Centre to talk on future tech, just two of many interesting speakers at a day of community engagement
Members of the Jin Yan cultural group shared Matariki with their own new year’s traditions, leaving the stage to dance with the crowd
Te Kura Tuarua o Te Tuarua
2026 2026
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Digging in for good
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Mayoral
candidacy
Blue Light coordinator’s
30-year achievement
u by Konrad Philips
Local Blue Light coordinator Shane Gould celebrates three decades of service to his community this month, expressing appreciation for the way people have supported Blue Light through all those years.
Mr Gould is originally from Australia, and he says memories of the Police Boys and Citizens Club (now known as the PCYC) of his youth inspired him to join Blue Light when he came to New Zealand.
“When young people are involved around positive people and events, it can help them to lead better futures for themselves,” says Mr Gould.
He is gratified to note that Blue Light has now evolved into a nationwide organisation, with his branch being one of the oldest, having been running for more than 30 years. The branch Mr Gould is associated with operates between Warkworth and Maungatūroto, with wide support from community groups in these towns.
Blue Light works with young people from primary school age and up. The organisation has helped to create many positive memories for children from all kinds of backgrounds. Mr Gould says that personally he is most happy about bringing a sense of continuity to the community through his long service.
Overall, he would like to say a huge thank you to all the community groups, schools and organisations that have
Shane Gould, who has worked for three decades liaising with schools, community groups and police in his role of Blue Light leadership, pictured with his wife Kristal
helped and supported Blue Light over the years. He sends extra thanks to his wife Kristal, who he says has been his righthand person over the many years he has worked at Blue Light.
If you would like to help support Blue Light you can enrol and volunteer to help at any of the many activities and events they run. Contact info@bluelight.co.nz to learn more. ¢
COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS NEWS YOU CAN TRUST
Basketball ambition takes flight
u by Andy Bryenton
Young Kaipara basketball athlete Isaiah Pere will travel to Las Vegas in the US in just under a month’s time, to compete in a top-level tournament with the eyes of top selectors watching.
The 17-year-old student has been involved with basketball since his primary school years, and recently gained a spot among 26 Kiwi basketball athletes who will fly to Nevada to compete against top young players from the US.
“I was pretty shocked to be included, as there were two major trials, but I was only able to make it to one of them,” says Isaiah. “This opportunity comes from an organisation in Auckland called Hoop 33, which is all about promoting the game.”
Isaiah has been part of fostering younger basketball talent himself, as he’s taken the time to pass on his skills to a new generation, serving as a coach, as well as advancing as a player. Now, that dedication to the sport is paying dividends, which could result in the attention of US university teams, keen to offer scholarships for future all-stars.
“It’s good fun, but a lot of hard work,” says Isaiah. “It’s only one per cent that separates you from the rest at the top of the sport. So, it’s been an intensive few weeks of training, but the
coach has said to back off a bit before the trip.”
The Pere family wish to thank all the people who have supported Isaiah in his journey so far. The Mangawhai Opportunity Shop and Tara Iti Whānau Trust have provided grants to help with his trip. Fit 365 supports him with strength and conditioning training. Kaipara basketball coach Kalem Tana has mentored him for six years. His Hoop 33 coaches are Carl Buck and Zac Fitzgerald. ¢
Times Gone By
The ones that didn’t get away
A photographer from the Auckland Weekly News captured these two successful fishermen out on the Kaipara Harbour in the 1930s, with a haul of big snapper to take home for a meal, and share a few yarns with their fishing friends over a cold beer or two.
New wharf for Dargaville
The Kaipara Steamship Company is preparing to erect a large wharf and coal dump at Dargaville, at a cost of £5,000. The wharf is expected to be in commission next summer, when a shipment of 4,000 tons of coal will be landed from Newcastle.
New Zealand Herald, June 14 1920
Paparoa takes on Whakapirau
On Tuesday evening, the Whakapirau Ping Pong Club were hosts to a party representing the Paparoa Ping Pong Club. Paparoa proved too strong in the ping pong tournament, winning by 11 games to 7, but Whakapirau carried off the honours in the deck tennis by four games to nil.
Northern Advocate, September 7 1935
Music takes a winter break
Dargaville’s popular acoustic music night sessions are taking a break for the winter, with host Allan Mortensen thanking participants for their enthusiasm but suggesting that the coldest part of the year is a good time
to relax at home where it’s warm. The gathering of musicians will return again, like all good things, with the spring. Watch this space for your invitation to take part, or just come and enjoy the sounds and the atmosphere. ¢
Grave robbers traumatise family
u by Andy Bryenton
The theft of a headstone from the old Mount Wesley cemetery shocked and outraged the Dargaville community last week, with the family of the man whose grave was desecrated calling the act ‘sacrilege’.
The family of Michael Mudford were appalled to learn that a large carved koru from atop his headstone had been sawed off and stolen last week. Mr Mudford’s final resting place in Dargaville’s Mount Wesley cemetery had been deliberately targeted, they opine, as evidenced by the need for tools to slice through the koru’s steel supports where it was anchored in solid stone.
“Jeanne (Michael’s wife), myself and our family are disgusted, hurt and mortified that anyone would do such a thing. We need the koru back,” said Mr Mudford’s daughter Leah Reweti.
She and her relatives filed a police report, but also appealed to the wider community to be on the lookout for the significant taonga. Family members took to social media to ask for information that finally led to the recovery of the stone koru.
After experiencing concerns that the item would be placed up for sale, a tip-off prompted an emergency trip to Wellsford,
and the headstone was returned to the family. However, there was no word of an arrest for the initial theft.
The desecration was made all the more traumatising considering the extensive community work Mr Mudford undertook during his life. As recently as 2017, he committed to undertaking a walk the length of the North Island to raise funds for Habitat for Humanity, the housing charity; not the first or last such philanthropic act he is respectfully remembered for. ¢
The final resting place of Dargaville resident, philanthropist and community stalwart Mike Mudford has been desecrated by thieves
Candidates declare
u by Andy Bryenton
More contenders for this year’s Kaipara council elections have announced their campaigns.
In the western Kaipara, Joesephine Nathan has announced her intent to run in the Wairoa General Ward, emphasising her vision for a strong, united and thriving community. Joesephine is well known as a promoter of local sporting events, tourism, wellbeing and social support.
In Kaiwaka-Mangawhai, Luke Canton says he aims to bring his accountancy and fiscal skills, honed in a successful career, to the council table. A local school board trustee and committee member with the Mangawhai Harbour Restoration Society and the Mangawhai Activity Zone, he emphasises responsible budgeting and decision-making.
Standing for a second term is incumbent councillor Rachael Williams, who says she has secured success in the current triennium in tempering growth with infrastructural focus, as well as serving on the Mangawhai Community Park, Awards and Grants and Regional Transport Committees. Her key focus remains on being a strong voice for ratepayer’s concerns.
Craig Jepson has announced his intent to run for the Kaiwaka-Mangawhai Ward, instead of as mayor, with a platform based on fiscal responsibility and growth. Prudent financial management, continued improvements and maintenance of the roading network, simplified, transparent processes in resource consents and supporting of property rights are core to his campaign.
NRC asked to consider successful pest exclusion
u by Andy Bryenton
The Northland Regional Council has been encouraged to emulate the successful programme adopted by the Te Arawa Lakes in the Bay of Plenty region to stop the spread of the invasive gold clam.
Kaipara citizens Libby Jones and Pete Hames addressed the NRC late in May, at the same time that revelations surfaced indicating that it would be legally challenging for the Kaipara District Council to close the boat ramp at Lake Taharoa to stop the spread of the freshwater pest.
Their contention was that a Controlled Area Notice (CAN) enforcing the mandatory cleaning of all watercraft, powered and unpowered before entering the Kai Iwi Lakes, and a blanket ban on craft from the infected Waikato region, should be enacted and enforced.
Such a ban was recently adopted by the councils governing the similar Te Arawa Lakes in the BOP, and has proven effective.
“The new protections, applied through a mechanism under the Biosecurity Act called a Controlled Area Notice (CAN), are in place to prevent this clam from making its way out of the Waikato River and from spreading to neighbouring Te Arawa Lakes,” said Biosecurity
New Zealand deputy director-general Stuart Anderson.
“Extensive surveillance by Biosecurity New Zealand indicates that our measures to date to stop the spread have been successful.”
Speaking to NRC councillors, Ms Jones and Mr Hames noted that the mechanism to ban boats, powered and unpowered, from the Waikato area entering Northland lakes already exists, and needs only be enforced.
Furthermore, local residents on Kai Iwi Lakes Road have taken the unprecedented step of offering fiscal and managerial support for the installation of a comprehensive washdown station using advanced waterless cleaning technology. ¢
The Bay of Plenty’s Lake Ōkataina is subject to a Controlled Area Notice that’s holding back the spread of the gold clam
Wallaby watch to keep pests out
u by Andy Bryenton
eliminate wallabies from the north.
Wallaby sightings propagated in December of 2023 and doubts were dispelled when two carcasses were found on local roadways; one was apparently struck by a motor vehicle between Whangārei and Dargaville.
“On considering all the evidence and speaking with the members of the public who reported it, staff are confident the report was genuine, and the animal was a wallaby,” said NRC biosecurity manager Nicky Fitzgibbon.
Now the NRC is calling for Kaipara locals to keep their eyes open to the threat these Australian marsupials pose to the environment. Wallabies were introduced to the South Island in the late 1800s, but the only place where they have not proliferated is in Northland. The only wallabies in the area are situated on Kawau Island, and they are unable to swim to the mainland. However, in other parts of the country wallabies are a pest, which causes major damage to crops, forestry, farmland and native bush. The bill for this destruction comes to millions of dollars each year, hence the emphasis the NRC places on keeping them out.
Wallabies resemble a small kangaroo, but their size, nocturnal habits and speed
mean that they are often mistaken for large hares, ground-travelling possums or even feral cats. Long feet and a thick, muscular tail are distinctive characteristics.
If you spot any unusual animals or signs such as footprints, droppings, or other wallaby markings, please inform the NRC. Report what you see, with a photo if you can, to reportwallabies.nz. ¢
Mobile clinic for rural communities
u by Andy Bryenton
The Ministry of Health has launched a new mobile ear, nose and throat clinic to serve rural Northland, in an effort to ease hospital and GP waiting times in remote areas.
Health Minister Simeon Brown said there was big demand for the mobile clinic when it was first deployed in Kawakawa.
“In just two days, the mobile clinic saw 53 patients; more than half of whom had been waiting over 10 months for an appointment, mostly for a first specialist assessment. Others were seen after spotting the clinic parked in their community,” said Mr Brown. “These patients would otherwise have had to travel to Whangārei Hospital.
“They also support our focus on reducing wait times for first specialist assessments and elective surgeries by easing pressure on hospital waitlists.”
The service supports procedures, such as endoscopy, vertigo manoeuvres, treatment for otitis media, adult grommet insertions, and removal of foreign bodies from the ear, nose or throat. It also enables outpatient bookings for ENT surgeries, including adenoidectomy, tonsillectomy and mastoidectomy.
Associate minister Matt Doocey noted access to healthcare is one of the biggest concerns for people living in rural and remote communities. Recent shortages of doctors and staffing issues which have
struck Dargaville Hospital and reduced GP numbers leading to longer wait times are examples of this problem. A mobile clinic mitigates some of these access concerns.
“This mobile clinic is fully equipped with advanced diagnostic and treatment technology, providing a standard of care on par with what patients receive at Whangārei or Kaitaia hospitals — exactly what rural communities deserve.”
Kaipara residents can expect to see timetables and schedules for the travelling clinic online when it visits local rural settlements. ¢
LOVE MUSIC? HOST YOUR OWN RADIO SHOW
Associate Health Minister Matt Doocey has helped to launch a new mobile ear, nose and throat clinic for rural Northland
Wallaby sightings lead to a public call to watch out for the marsupial pests
Pines as a ‘papal indulgence’ On Kaipara celebrations
u by Andy Bryenton
A group of leading legal luminaries is suing the coalition government for not shaping up to climate change targets, and debates on the nature, severity and man-made origins of climate trends aside, one of the points they make takes aim at a disturbing Kiwi method for assuaging our own and foreign climate ‘sins’.
Lawyers for Climate Action is not happy about the Luxon administration’s schemes to cut carbon. They’re against the practice of turning farmland into pine plantations to trap carbon, too.
‘The government’s plan also relies heavily on offsetting NZ’s emissions with forestry plantations, projecting an additional 700,000 hectares of tree planting by 2050,’ says the Lawyers for Climate Action website. ‘This is despite warnings from the Climate Change Commission that tree planting is no substitute for reducing emissions at source. It locks in vast pine plantations for future generations.’
The thing is, almost nobody thinks that planting vast swathes of pine is a good idea. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change has said it’s not optimal. Lawyers for Climate Action isn’t keen, by their own comment above.
Even Agriculture Minister Todd McClay has moved to ban the conversion of good farmland into potentially unmanaged, never-harvested pine forests, and he was applauded for doing it.
“The government is focussed on maintaining strong food and fibre production while supporting sustainable land use. We remain concerned about the effect that farm conversions are having on highly productive land,” said Mr McClay.
The biggest problem, here at ground zero of the march of the pines, is that untended carbon forests don’t make milk, or meat or kūmara. They don’t employ sharemilkers, support families, need tractors or utes or vets or dogs. They don’t need schools and doctors nearby, and silent ranks of pines don’t vote, shop, join sports teams, volunteer for charities or go to church. They’ll sit there, eerily empty, tinder dry in future Kaipara summers when there’ll be fewer firefighting volunteers to help if it all goes wrong, because their jobs will have evaporated.
Little towns exist to provide these services. Little towns that might die a death by a thousand saplings if the concerns of these disparate groups are ignored.
In the bad old days when the Borgias ruled Rome, you could buy an indulgence from the church; the right to commit a sin, paid for with cash. Carbon forests might be the modern equivalent, if we take the money of polluters to paint their ‘sins’ green. ¢
In your recent editorial, a number of questions were raised about a festival for Dargaville.
Hopefully, I can answer some of those, but first we need to ask ourselves, why have one in the first place? A quality main street festival for Dargaville should promote the town, attract investment and enhance cultural life. So, where’s our big festival?
Dargaville doesn’t need a ‘big’ festival, it needs a good one, with a strategic plan for sustainable growth over time, supporting existing venues and businesses. What should we celebrate? Our community, through music and food. Us celebrating our history and cultural diversity, and telling our own stories through the many talented musicians and songwriters Northland has.
What role should the council play? A local festival would be best served by a council with a cooperative approach to compliance issues. This would be more helpful than outsourced funding.
Festivals around the world are closing down at the moment due to a number of factors. Dargaville has an opportunity to stage an international quality event built from grassroots, if we organise properly and have community support.
Pete O’Neill
(Editor’s note: Mr O’Neill was instrumental in organising the recent singers and songwriters festival in Dargaville, a great success.)
DARGAVILLE HIGH SCHOOL
Thank you to the people of Dargaville and Northern Wairoa
It has been a privilege to work on behalf of this community, and support progress for all of us over the last three years. I’ve put my skills to work to fulfil your trust, and I’d like to express my gratitude to you all for the opportunity to find solutions and promote positive change.
REPRESENTATION
I was appointed to the Northland Civil Defence and Emergency Management Committee due to my qualifications and experience. I took an active role in overseeing the management of Cyclone Gabrielle and other emergencies, and witnessed how our emergency services and the community rallied together. I’ve been a strong supporter of the new regional emergency hub for Northland which will improve disaster response effectiveness.
I was successful in gaining support from the majority of Council to allocate substantial funding to the revitalisation of central Dargaville’s roads and footpaths. This initial $550,000 budget is likely to reach more than $1.4 million when subsidy revenue is added.
I’ve been pleased to find ways to cut costs to ratepayers. As Chair of the speed limit review panel, I led the quashing of a disastrous $800,000 reduction plan which was later repealed by central government. I did this as a result of attending to all of the community consultation meetings and listening to you as ratepayers. I identified and opposed an expensive, unnecessary Baylys Beach flood review which saved another $500,000 in consultant costs.
PROGRESS
My most significant contribution during this term has been as a member of the District Plan Working Party which resulted in the recent notification of the Proposed District Plan (PDP). I am also a member of the Engineering Standards Working Party, Kaipara Economic Development Committee, and the district representative on the Northland Road Safety Trust.
I was actively involved in bringing Kaipara’s roading delivery back in-house. We have made good progress in the area and have further improvements still to make.
I was instrumental in helping to secure central government funding for an integrated new water supply and flood
There’s more to do:
• Working towards a solution for Dargaville’s Town Hall which delivers an effective fit-for-purpose finished facility.
• Making our local swimming pool an asset run for the community, by the community, and open for recreation, fitness and education.
• Slowing the growth of ETS carbon forestry, and maintaining and supporting our rural sector.
protection project for Dargaville. This will ensure a reliable continuous water supply as well as significant flood resilience from Te Kopuru through to Dargaville.
DIPLOMACY
I’m proud to have initiated the mediation which resolved the four-year long dispute between the Council and the Empire Street and Spring Street residents.
As Chair of the Harding Park Governance Committee I have worked hard to ensure that numerous visual improvements have occurred, and budgets have been used effectively.
I was also part of negotiations with New Zealand First to make a paved runway for Dargaville’s airport an election promise, getting Wellington to pay attention to Dargaville. This is still a work in progress.
I’ll continue to serve on the Kaipara District Licensing Committee, as a certified Resource Management Act commissioner, as Kaipara Automobile Association elected representative, as a board member of Blue Light and a keen supporter of their youth driver training, and will continue as a local business owner.
I will continue to strive to provide good outcomes for the community, and find smart ways to capitalise on opportunities.
For now, however, I wish to offer you once again my sincere thanks for your support over the past three years.
Adults can have fun, too
u by Amy Fifita
The Mangawhai Toy Library is giving parents an opportunity to play at the child-free Toy Library Social this Thursday.
Hosted at The Bunker, 83 Molesworth Drive, Mangawhai, at 7pm on Thursday, June 26, the evening promises parents and caregivers a fun and friendly evening. While spending time and caring for the children remains important, the social is a time for parents to let their hair down.
“It is a nice excuse for us to get out of the house without the children and have a little get-together. It is a time to celebrate a year since the toy library reopened,” said secretary Suzanne Kelly.
Attendees have the opportunity to win a free membership at the event. Having shut its doors during Covid, the library has many new volunteers and families, and welcomes new members.
“We are hoping for members and people interested in joining to attend. We are raffling off a free membership for the next couple of terms, and let people vote on what new toys we should buy.
“We have grant money to spend so we can get new toys, and it will be great to get some input on what is best for everyone in the community.”
Suzanne says the group consists of kind and caring mums, dads and grandparents who hang out at the play sessions on Wednesdays and Saturdays.
“I have been in Mangawhai for 18 months now, and it is my toy library friends whom I lean on now, and it has been great to have good friends we can settle in with. We would love to have more families to visit and join us.”
The toy library is open every Wednesday and Saturday during the school term from 9.30am to 11.30am at the Te Whai Community Trust. The service allows parents to sample toys and see what their children enjoy the most.
“The sessions are run for the community to stay and play, and members can take toys home. We have lots of indoor toys like construction, puzzles and games, and outdoor things like bikes to borrow.
“We invite any non-members to join us for a koha so their children can play and hang out in a nice community space.”
If anyone has good-quality toys to donate or sell (if in impeccable condition), contact the toy library. To RSVP for the social, contact Suzanne on 022 398 8076. ¢
Elton, Charli and Arlo enjoying each other’s company at the Mangawhai Toy Library
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House of Lash and Brows is proud to be celebrating five successful years of enhancing beauty and empowering women across Northland. Based locally, our salon has become a trusted destination for premium lash extensions, brows and nail services, all delivered with precision, care and a passion for perfection. Over the years, we’ve expanded beyond the salon chair to offer comprehensive in-person and online lash extension training courses, helping aspiring lash artists turn their passion into a profession. We’re also the proud creators of a fast-growing online lash supply store, offering high-quality, professional lash products that now sell out across the country. At House of Lash and Brows, we believe beauty is both an art and a business. Whether you’re looking to elevate your self-care routine, learn the art of lash extensions, or stock your salon with top-tier supplies, we’re honoured to be your go-to beauty hub. Thank you to our loyal clients and incredible community for your ongoing support - and a special mention to my team in House of Lash and Brows and my whānau (the back bone behind the business) I couldn’t do this without you all. Here’s to 5 years! 56B Victoria Street, Dargaville. For course enquiries email houseoflashandbrows@outlook.com
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Dream occasions made real
u by Andy Bryenton
Kaipara wedding planner Amy Munn has taken home a third top award for her work crafting spectacular and memorable events for her clients.
Amy recently attended the nationwide Wedding Industry Awards Gala, the eighth time this industry-wide ceremony has been held. She was nominated for two categories for her work with her company Platinum Events, and was acclaimed as Outstanding Wedding Planner of 2025. It’s not the first time Amy has been on the winning stage. In her 13-year career arranging the details for brides and grooms, she’s also twice been awarded wedding planner of the year.
“I think the most enjoyable thing in creating any event, and especially a wedding, is seeing the final product and how people respond. Seeing something from the imagination of a couple come to life is rewarding,” says Amy.
“There is, of course, always the factor of last-minute nerves, but the role of a wedding planner is to take away stress and let a couple enjoy the occasion. The best part about what I do is that weddings are uniquely customisable. I can be there to take care of as much or as little of the event as people wish.”
That can sometimes mean that Amy feels like part of the family when the cake is cut, the champagne is poured and the photos have been taken. During those 13 years, she says she has seen and assisted with all kinds of weddings, from the humble to the extravagant, and the avant-garde to the very traditional.
“It’s a conversation with the couple, about what they imagine and how I can make it happen,” she says. “Any budget and any vision can be brought to life.” ¢
Citizens query wind farm progress
u by Andy Bryenton
One of the most ambitious construction projects for the past century is ready to roll out in west Kaipara, as Mercury Energy prepares to construct the 12 immense turbines of the Kaiwaikawe wind farm.
Recent weeks have seen work undertaken to prepare the route, with earthworks cutting into hillsides and power lines cleared for height along the route between Northport at Marsden Point and the wind farm site near Omamari.
Concrete will be poured from July through until September to base the 206-metre wind turbines, and when they roll in their transit will necessitate one of the biggest road freight missions ever seen in New Zealand.
Trial runs will be held in November and January, late at night and in the early hours of the morning. The route between Northport and Omamari travels through Tangiterōria, where the bridge is being strengthened, and then through Dargaville, before heading out to the coast. On some sections, the huge 8o-metre-long blades and hefty tower sections will take up the entire road, so extensive safety measures will be in place.
There are 36 blades, 12 nacelles (turbine covers), 12 powertrains, 12
blade hubs and 12 each of the five huge tubular tower sections to shift. This will require multiple trips from the port to the site in the hours of darkness, spanning from February to May of 2026. Along the way, 360 trees have been cut down, and then replaced with new plantings thanks to Kaipara Moana Remediation. When complete, the Kaiwaikawe Wind Farm will be the northernmost of Mercury’s six installations, and will generate enough electricity to power 27,000 homes. ¢
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P L A T I N U M E V E N T S Exclusive
Events Priceless memories
Wedding planner Amy Munn has won a third award for her acclaimed work in the industry
Mercury Energy representatives met with members of the public in Dargaville to answer questions about the forthcoming construction of the Kaiwaikawe wind farm
Captured for the community Underwater explorations
u by Amy Fifita
The Mangawhai Lions is inviting people, young and old, to enter their snaps into its photography competition.
“We want it to be a lot of fun, and it is great that we can use the amazing photos we get to fundraise for the Te Whai Community Trust later in the year. The competition is open to everyone,” said secretary Mandy Hebben.
Landscape, nature, beach fun and the people of Mangawhai are the categories, with photos to be taken in the seaside township and its surrounding areas. The winning shots will be collected to make a 2026 fundraising calendar to benefit the Te Whai Community Trust.
“We are also going to do a pop-up art display, with the winning works on big corflute images along the Mangawhai Estuary Board Walk.
“It will be nice to have along the estuary and give people the opportunity to look at them as they walk by before the calendar comes out.”
People can enter up to two photos in each category by emailing mangawhailions.photo@gmail.com.
“We will choose the top 10 photos that will be judged by four independent judges, who will select a first, second and third
placement in each category. The entries last year were amazing, so I am excited to see the 2025 ones.”
Competition entries close on June 30. To enter, email your category, name, contact details and attach your photo (do not include the image in the body of the email) and send a separate email for each category. ¢
u by Amy Fifita
Tangaroa Rogers and Stella Watson from Tinopai School and Aranga School’s Kia Ora Taua enjoyed a special experience with the Mountains to Sea Conservation Trust at the Poor Knights Islands recently.
The three Kaipara students were selected to be part of the annual event that includes young learners from across the country. The group took to the seas and got to experience the protected nature reserve, showcasing what conservation can do.
“From here we will use our artwork to create a mural to inform our fauna and wider community on the importance of protecting our marine biodiversity and marine issues,” said Tangaroa and Stella.
For the Tinopai duo, it shows the importance of water health, something they can bring home to their rural area. Students have been shown how to collect monthly water samples and perform water tests to ensure their local waterways and sediment health are up to scratch.
Aranga School also had a representative at the diving exploration. Megan Knott attended the occasion with Kia Ora after attending an Experiencing
Marine Reserves programme in
and Goat Island last year.
“Kia Ora was just one of our most engaged and enthusiastic students on those trips. We did a little project that was based on comparing and contrasting an area that wasn’t a marine reserve with a protected area,” said Megan.
Students and chaperones got to explore the underwater world, many of whom never had the opportunity to come out until the EMR programme. ¢
SUPPORT LOCAL
Tinopai
Students from around New Zealand, including Kaipara representatives Tangaroa Rogers, Stella Watson and Kia Ora Taua enjoyed an underwater experience at the Poor Knights Islands
Show honours given
u by Andy Bryenton
Local Kaipara A&P shows combine many of the traditional skills and fields of excellence which have stood the test of time,
and woodchopping to equestrian events and the highly competitive indoor section.
Local support has made these shows happen for close to one and a half centuries, with sponsorship from business leaders evident even at shows where the only record is black-and-white photos. At the same time, it’s the competitive friendly spirit of participants and the hard work of volunteers behind the scenes that have made shows in Paparoa and Arapohue a success.
Last week, two of those volunteers of long and respected standing were feted by their fellow committee members. Neville and Carole Collins, who together have contributed nearly 40 years of their expertise and commitment to the Northern Wairoa A&P Show as treasurer and secretary respectively, were presented with a gold medal and a bouquet at a dinner held in their honour.
“Everything I have done for the show I have done because I have enjoyed it,” said Neville, rising to accept the accolade. “It’s been a pleasure to be of service.”
In an unexpected move, which nevertheless has been welcomed with enthusiasm by agricultural and pastoral show organisers, the government has disbursed a windfall of $1,000 each to these heritage events.
“A&P shows are an important annual fixture on the rural calendar and the government recognises that these events would not happen without the hard work of volunteers and community groups, like yourselves, that bring them to life,” said MP Todd McClay.
He revealed in a letter to A&P show organisers that the government has committed to a four-year programme with coffers totalling $400,000, which will enable all of the country’s long-established show days to receive an annual $1,000 payout.
“This funding commitment is about backing the people behind the scenes who put in the hours and hard work to make these shows happen. Your work helps bridge the rural urban divide, showcase agricultural excellence, and secure our rich rural culture for generations to come,” McClay said. “When rural communities thrive, our whole country benefits.”
With the cost of maintaining showgrounds and promoting events on the rise with inflation, and with the desire of many show committees to emulate the Northern Wairoa A&P Show by helping to subsidise children’s entertainment and carnival rides, the government’s grant will be very welcome indeed. Funds will be disbursed by the Ministry for Primary Industries. ¢
Neville and Carole Collins were awarded for their dedication to A&P show success
Fieldays in a positive frame of mind
u by Andy Bryenton
A huge National Fieldays packed in more than 100,000 visitors and 1,200 exhibitors in mid-June, exceeding targets and showing that record-high commodity prices are driving a round of upgrades and investments on Kiwi farms.
As Fieldays’ CEO Richard Lindroos tipped sales to exceed those of 2024, and cited ‘queues out the door’ for both general and big-ticket items, the focus of many guests was not just on the bellwether performance of the Southern Hemisphere’s biggest agricultural event, but also on what the coalition government would announce during the threeday festival.
Prime minister Christopher Luxon’s address to the Fieldays’ crowd was not focussed on the uptick in the rural economy’s returns, or on the impact of a new tax incentive on farm machinery. It was all about appreciating those on the front lines of the rural economy, and supporting their mental health.
“I want the farmers to know they’re deeply valued and deeply loved by this government,” said Mr Luxon. “This is the backbone of the New Zealand economy; we are the best farmers in the world.”
Todd McClay then went on to announce a $4 million boost to rural wellbeing, to expand investment in communitybased initiatives.
While many opined that the best panacea to rural stress is the profitability of farming, and the rising value of milk
solids, red meat and crops, such as kiwifruit, in a volatile world trade market are delivering more than $4 million in relief, Mr McClay’s news was met with positivity.
Programmes like FarmStrong, Surfing for Farmers, New Zealand Young Farmers and FirstMate are well regarded, well
patronised and proven effective in rural New Zealand. A panel of five with representation from the primary sector will be established to review similar initiatives, test their ability to provide clear benefits to rural communities, and gauge their ability to attract co-investment before funds are granted.
“We’re backing the people on the ground who are already doing great work. This fund is about scaling up, reaching further, and removing barriers for rural communities to lead their own wellbeing efforts,” Mr McClay said.
This $4 million fund brings the government’s commitment to rural resilience and mental health to more than $11 million in total, to be disbursed during the next four years. That figure also includes $6 million for Rural Support Trusts and $1 million in 2025 alone for rural mental wellbeing services.
“This package is about ensuring the farmers and growers who generate our export income, create jobs, and sustain our regions have the support they need
to thrive,” Mr McClay says. “When rural New Zealand is well — New Zealand does well.” ¢
Prime minister Christopher Luxon has called Kiwi farmers the best in the world at his Fieldays’ address
Tax credit to grow farms and businesses
u by Andy Bryenton
Investment Boost is the name of a new scheme developed by the government to encourage farmers and other business owners to invest in their own operations.
Announced in late May, but hitting its full impact during the National Fieldays in mid-June, the tax package effectively cuts one-fifth from the price of all new farming machinery, vehicles, equipment, plant and buildings. This is returned as a tax credit, with the aim of the plan being to persuade farmers to retrench some of
the high payouts coming from record beef, dairy and crop prices into self-investment.
“There’s no cap on the value of eligible investments. All businesses, regardless of size, can benefit,” said Finance Minister Nicola Willis.
“Investment Boost delivers more bang for buck than a company tax cut because it only applies to new investments, not those made in the past.”
Here’s how it works. Businesses can claim 20 per cent deductions for the costs of new (or new to New Zealand) business assets that they bought, or finished constructing, on or after May 22 2025, according to Inland Revenue. They can then still claim depreciation as usual on the remaining 80 per cent.
Colourcrete Dairy Floor Resurfacing System
Suitable for repairing damaged dairy floors or slippery areas
Applied by contractor or supplied as a DIY kit
Bruce Cameron 027 498 8412 acraflex@gmail.com New or existing walls. Able
That’s a big discount, amounting to tens of thousands of dollars, and it’s able to be claimed on any new or New-Zealand new assets. That could mean dairy machinery, ATVs, tractors, harvesting equipment, trailers, bailers, effluent infrastructure or silos. It can also stretch to encompass any non-residential building constructed on a farm, for commercial or industrial purposes. Furthermore, improvements to primary sector land are also covered.
There’s also the opportunity for nonprimary industries, such as transport
The
and logistics companies, to get on board and improve their fleets or premises. Full details of who qualifies, and how much they could claim back, are available at ird. govt.nz/investment-boost.
“The Treasury and Inland Revenue estimate Investment Boost will improve economic growth, lifting New Zealand’s GDP by one per cent, wages by 1.5 per cent and our capital stock by 1.6 per cent over the next 20 years, with around half these gains expected in the first five years,” says Ms Willis.
“Investment Boost starts today and applies to new assets purchased in New Zealand as well as new and used assets imported from overseas. It includes commercial buildings but excludes land, residential buildings and assets already in use in New Zealand.”
The message to farmers and business owners is to act fast; demand will be high as evidenced by vehicle and equipment sales at Fieldays. For buildings, the waiting lists could stretch unless you act soon. ¢
• Full range of General Earthworks s available; inclluding Dams, Rooads and House sites
• 13 Ton Digger with S Shear Grab, for controlled Limbing, Toppiing g or Removal of Trees and branches
• Perfect for around d S Sheds, Roads, Race ways, Fence e lines and Water ways
• Modern Eqquipment t with experienced operators
coalition government’s Investment Boost tax break has driven exceptional interest in vehicles, plant and machinery at the recent Fieldays in Mystery Creek
“Tell ya wot Dog, things are lookin’ up for footy ina woolshed soon, ’cos the Crusader boys have got there mojo back, an’ soon we gonna have the ABs an’ the Fern girls back in action, Can’t wait eh?
Gidday readas, Boss an’ me were headin’ down tha cattle race ona new Big Black Quad fer smoko an’ tell yer wot we was ridin’ in style, ’cos Boss got it atta Feel Daze at Mystry Creek after his gerlfren’ Sharlene let him have the farm check book. She said it was a demo model and was pretty cheep. Anyway, Boss was rilly chuffed too, but I was still tryin’ to work out what was a mojo wen we got ter smoko.
Sharlene hada cuppatees tray ana papa I got froma kattil stop atta road gate, an’ wile Boss hada look she slipped me a bita bannana cake, witch I cood smell froma top of the hill. Yum. Then she took the papa froma Boss. “Deah, I was just lookin’ atta footy stuff an’ we might plan a bit ofa footy barbie ina woolshed soon.”
Boss slurped his cuppatees with a huge bitof cake. He didn’t even look at me tho. Sharlene went on. “I rekin the All Blacks might have a few Crusaders
lined up wen they selected,” she sed. “That was a beaut game against the Chiefs, eh Deah.”
She read in her skoolteecha voice. “Crusaders 16, Chiefs 12. In just a year these boys have staged a real comeback. Last year, they were on the sidelines and now they are back, and against the Chiefs on Saturday night they showed they were on top again.”
Boss had some more cake, an’ Sharlene give him a glare. He swallered tho an’ sed he reckoned the game was “like a test match Deah. I reckin, in fact, the rugby is surely worth a midwinter barbie. I cood knock over a mutton, too, and stick it on a spit fer the games against tha frogs.”
That had me puzzled, too, like mojos, but Sharlene give me a pat. “Nah Billy, cheeky Boss meens France, an’ she red sum more. “The All Blacks host the French in three tests in Dunedin, Wellington and Hamilton. But it’s not a top French side as they have top players still in the domestic French season.
Barry Underwood Ph: 027 498 7745 or 09 431 8078
Adam Exler Ph: 021 460 974 E: debazz1709@gmail.com
Some strong French players could be available for the second and third tests in Wellington on July 12, and Hamilton the week after.”
Boss said “nothing like a good game of footy Deah, but I really lookin’ forwid to the Women’s Werld Cup witch gets underway in August, just a few weeks away. Go the girls, go the Black Ferns I say.”
“Well,” Sharlene give me another little bit of cake an a pat. “There ya go Billy. A feast of footy to come.” But readas, I was conentratin’ on sumthin’ else ofa feast to look for to. Spit roast hoggit. Plinty of leffover an juicy bones, too. Roll ona footy ina woolshed.
See ya — Billy ¢
DARGAVILLE Ounuwhao Road
Natural Beauty Plus Land
43 hectares of rolling to hill country with smaller area of flats, a perfect blend of natural beauty and practical amenities. With three hectares of QEII bush with covenants, ensuring the preservation of its natural beauty. Enjoy the lovely views from various vantage points on the property, with a potential building site that offers stunning scenery. Eight paddocks, post and batten boundary, ideal for grazing, and currently carries 30 head of stock. Dam water, a quarry and a haybarn add to this neat block. Come and view this rural paradise.
AUCTION
Plus GST (if any) (Unless Sold Prior)
11 00am, Tuesday 8 July PGG Wrightson, Dargaville VIEW By Appointment Only
NEW LISTING
DARGAVILLE Lot 2 3035 Mititai Road
Prime Grazing or Cropping Opportunity
Lot 2 being a subdivision of 3035 Mititai Road
Approximately 40ha of flat to rolling land, ideal for kumara, maize, or grazing. Quality cattle yards wintering barn, limestone races and new fencing. Fertile soils (river silt, clay loam, volcanic clay) pasture rye, clover and kikuyu. Water from on-site dams Native bush adds shelter and appeal. Subdivision near completion. Great opportunity for cropping, dairy grazing or beef finishing.
Megan Browning
M 027 668 8468
E mbrowning@pggwrightson.co.nz
pggwre.co.nz/DAG41793
DARGAVILLE 981 Hoanga Road
Vendor Wants Action - Circumstances Have Changed
All set up and ready to go - 120 hectares of flat fertile productive land with five titles. The farm
DEADLINE SALE
Plus GST (if any)
(Unless Sold Prior)
Closes 2.00pm Wednesday 23 July
VIEW By Appointment Only
Ron Grbin
M 027 471 6388
E rgrbin@pggwrightson.co.nz
June
WHAT’S ON?
For outside of Dargaville events email info@integrity.nz
Inland Revenue Clinic — 24 June at Heartland Services, Whanau Focus Building, 61 Victoria Street, Dargaville. Bookings Essential. Phone 09 439 7009 or 02 245 3765.
Tu Manawa Funding Workshop — 24 June, 6pm at Sportsville. Come and connect with clubs / organisations to learn about Te Manawa Funding. Hauora Event — 26 June, Rangitane Hall, Pouto. Lunch and refreshments provided. Free 20-minute miri miri is also available. Local entertainer Wynton Nathan and line dancing lessons from Waima King. Government agencies and services will be there to support you.
Whanau Focus Office — We will be closed on 26th June due to the Hauora event in Pouto. We apologise for any inconvenience. Brian Burnett will be available should anyone need a Justice of the Peace. Call him on 09 439 6175 to make an appointment. Baylys Beach Society — 27 June Fundraising Quiz Night. 56 View Rd, Baylys Beach. Open 6.30pm, $15pp. Contact Tracy 021 883 437 to register your team. Acoustic Soda – Jam for Glam – Dedicated to Kenny Glamuzina — at the Central Hotel, Saturday 29th June 3pm to 7pm, $5 cover charge.
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.
Bring Balance Group — Mondays 12.30–1.30pm, Time to pause, reflect and set intention. Kaipara Community Centre (side entrance) $10. For more info phone Maureen 021 0231 8008 or see www. bringbalance.co.nz.
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. Beginners Fri 9.30am. 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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10,510 copies, distributed on Tuesday to every residential and rural home throughout the district
Dargaville, Ruawai, Paparoa, Matakohe, Maungaturoto, Kaiwaka, Mangawhai and Wellsford.
helenat@sportnorth.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 Bruce 09 439 5513.
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.
Paparoa Box Fit — $10. Stretching/cardio/boxing. Paparoa Memorial Hall, every Wednesday 6–7pm.
dargaville@cab.org.nz
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.
Practising Presence — Mondays 6–7pm. Meditation, qi gong and taiji to train being in the present moment, Kaipara Community Centre (side entrance), 38 Hokianga Road, $10. Phone Maureen 021 0231 8008 or see www.bringbalance.co.nz for more info. 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 CHART
POUTO POINT
WED 25 3:51 am (0.5m) 10:01 am (3.2m) 4:13
MANGAWHAI HEADS
(0.4m) 10:33 pm (3.4m) THU 26 4:44 am (0.5m) 10:55 am (3.2m) 5:03 pm (0.4m) 11:22 pm (3.4m) FRI 27 5:35 am (0.5m) 11:45 am (3.1m) 5:51 pm (0.5m) SAT 28 12:09 am (3.3m) 6:23 am (0.5m) 12:32 pm (3.1m) 6:37 pm (0.6m) SUN 29 12:55 am (3.3m) 7:09 am (0.6m) 1:18 pm (3.0m) 7:20 pm (0.6m) MON 30 1:38 am (3.2m) 7:53 am (0.7m) 2:01 pm (2.9m) 8:03 pm (0.8m) TUE 1 2:21 am (3.0m) 8:37 am (0.8m) 2:45 pm (2.8m) 8:47 pm (0.9m) Dargaville Arts Association www.dargavillearts.co.nz
11:31 pm (2.6m) TUE 1 5:40 am (0.7m) 11:56 am (2.4m) 5:48 pm (0.7m)
21 Made an impact on (9)
22 At hand (6)
25 Occurring at a favourable time (9)
27 Rustic (anag)(6)
28 Toddler (6)
33 Make restitution (10)
35 Regret bitterly (3)
36 Body box (6)
37 Invites (4) 39 Tune (3) 41 Tout for business (7) 42 Run off (6) 43 Unit of
(5,4)
(5)
45 Legal representative (8) 50 Via (2)
51 Completely exhausted (4,4)
55 Paved courtyard (5)
58 Make clear, explain (9)
59 Blood vessel (6)
60 Narrative (7)
61 Paddle (3)
63 Deceive (4)
64 Discontinued (6)
65 Expected (3)
66 Wavy (10)
68 Novelist (6)
69 Exercise runner (6)
71 Impermanent (9)
76 Rider’s seat (6)
77 Tight-lipped, cagey (9)
79 Pointed tower (7)
81 Beverage (3)
84 Month (5)
85 Turning on a pivot (10)
86 Squalid (5)
87 Model (5)
88 As one arranged or intended (9,2,4)
89 Varieties (5)
2 Snobbish and arrogant (6)
3 Undecorated (5)
5 Ostrich-like birds (4)
6 Barbaric (7)
7 Smells (6)
8 Gives off (5)
9 Of maximum size (7)
10 Standard (4)
11 Gave the slip (6)
12 Orderly arrangement (5)
13 Glaringly conspicuous (7)
14 Hind part (4,3)
18 Rapt attention (10)
23 Wasp’s weapon (5)
24 Bison (7)
26 Condition of contract (7)
27 At minimum expense (7)
29 Severe or strict in attitude or manner (7)
30 Write-up (6)
31 Fearful expectation (5)
32 Foolish laugh (6)
34 Female sheep (4)
36 Muscle seizure (5)
38 Swagger (5)
40 Horse farm (4)
45 In the lead (5)
46 Brass instrument (7)
47 Surprise attack (4)
48 Rubbed out (6)
49 Ran for election (5)
50 Live-in school pupil (7)
52 Speed up (10)
53 Ink-soaking paper (7)
54 Window shade (6)
55 Retirement income (7)
56 Scatter (5)
57 German Mrs (4)
62 Modify for use (5)
67 Friendly (7)
68 Be teetotal (7)
70 Lubricated (7)
72 Wrap up completely (7)
73 Clergy member (6)
74 City thoroughfare (6)
75 Oath (6)
76 Rescued (5)
78 Have sovereign power (5)
80 Foe (5)
82 Too (4)
83 Girl’s name (4)
Fill the grid so that every column, every row and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1 to 9.
ACROSS: 1 Juice, 4 We are not amused, 11 India, 14 Sweat, 15 Predicament, 16 Consider, 19 Trimmed, 20 Nasal, 21 Somnolent, 24 Submerged, 26 Chisel, 27 Faints, 31 Purse, 32 Seashore, 34 Sweltering, 38 Blurred, 39 Humour, 40 Aligns, 41 Sago, 42 Hideout, 45 Passionate, 50 Conceal, 54 Tool, 55 Amigos, 56 Simper, 57 Harrier, 60 Liberation, 61 Convener, 62 About, 65 Enlist, 66 Cheers, 67 Notorious, 72 Hostility, 73 Smite, 74 Lettuce, 79 Handrail, 80 Compartment, 81 Cloud, 82 Toast, 83 Strength of mind, 84 Tyres. DOWN: 2 Unwary, 3 Claim, 5 Ears, 6 Radiate, 7 Nectar, 8 Tame, 9 Mandolin, 10 Doodle, 11 Insinuated, 12 Dado, 13 Airless, 17 Seems, 18 Underwrite, 22 Green, 23 Envisage, 25 Upsurge, 26 Cheerio, 28 Nuclei, 29 Robots, 30 Clinic, 33 Sauna, 35 Growl, 36 Menu, 37 Data, 42 Hotel, 43 Doorbell, 44 Tempts, 45 Pigeonhole, 46 Sash, 47 Insects, 48 Naming, 49 Theme, 51 Oral, 52 Caribou, 53 Avenue, 58 Aristocrat, 59 Lemon, 63 Meltdown, 64 Hives, 65 Earshot, 68 Optimum, 69 Ethics, 70 Embryo, 71 Accuse, 75 Tally, 76 Inca, 77 Spit, 78 Anon.
5x5
Insert the missing letters to complete ten words — five across the grid and five down. More than one solution may be possible.
CHURCH
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).
FIREWOOD — dry hot mix $120/m³, delivered free to Dargaville & surrounding areas. Phone or TXT Henry 021 734 906.
SEPTIC TANK SERVICES
MAGIC PROPERTY Services, effluent & septic tank cleaning. Servicing the Kaipara. Phone Chris 027 480 0110 or Mary 027 459 1544. 7 Days. WE ARE THE ONLY CODE COMPLIANT OPERATORS IN THE KAIPARA.
PLANT SALE, corokia geentys, green geenty giant, chocolate soldier, all 1 metre height and only $6 this week. Got2Go Plants 55 West Coast Road, Te Kopuru EFTPOS available. Phone 09 439 5556 or text 027 488 3400.
1 STOP Window & Door Repairs — seals, latches, stays, wheels, hinges, locks, glass & glazing. Phone 027 275 0918 or 09 439 6458 — Kevin Sowter or visit my website: www.windowanddoors.co.nz — Window & Door Services Ltd.
& SERVICES
19MM H3.2 Plywood Various Grades Scooters Plywood 09 438 6464. 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.
CLASSIFIEDS
Community Coordinator | Te Kopuru
Position Type: 30 hours per week fixed term for 3 years.
Salary: $30 per hour
Application Deadline: 3rd July 2025
Are you passionate about building strong, connected communities? Do you have a talent for bringing people together, organizing events, and driving grassroots initiatives? If so, we’d love to hear from you!
About the Role:
We are seeking a motivated and people-oriented
Community Coordinator to lead local engagement efforts, strengthen community networks, and support meaningful programs that make a difference. You’ll be working closely with residents, volunteers, stakeholders, and partner organizations to foster a vibrant and inclusive community.
Key Responsibilities:
Plan, promote, and coordinate community events, workshops, and initiatives
PHONE 09 439 6933
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.
THANK YOU
DEATH NOTICES
Build and maintain relationships with community members, groups, and local agencies
Facilitate community meetings and feedback sessions
Support volunteer recruitment, training, and engagement
Identify community needs and help develop responsive programs
About You:
KAIPARA GREY Power’s next Public Meeting is this Friday, June 27th. Our guest is Kat Kalynchuk. Her presentation will be an introduction to “Know Your Stuff” … a brief overview of the “substances” available and the harm they cause plus the Community Outreach Services that are available locally. There will be a time for questions. We welcome all to our Public Meetings. The venue is the Dargaville Methodist Complex starting at 1pm with Association News and around 1.20pm Kat. Ken 09 439 4452. SITUATIONS VACANT
Manage social media and communications to keep the community informed
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
Experience in community development, event coordination, or a related field
Organised, self-motivated, and adaptable
Passionate about inclusion, equity, and collaboration
Comfortable working with diverse communities
Proficient in digital tools (e.g., email marketing, social media, event planning software)
To Apply:
Please send your CV and a brief cover letter outlining your interest and experience to gm@greenwaystrust.org.nz by 4pm 3rd July For more information, contact Roxanne Kelly 022 567 9880.
Temporary Road Closure
Pursuant to the Local Government Act 1974, Schedule 10, 11(e), the Kaipara District Council hereby gives notice that they will temporarily close the following roads on the day and at the times below for the purpose of holding the Hibiscus Coast Motorsport Club Rally.
Council approved the temporary road closure at its meeting on 28 May 2025.
Sunday 27 July 2025 from 8am to 5pm
• 1 km of Cassidy Road from 190 heading northwest to Harrison Road
• 1.9km of Harrison Road heading south to Central Road
• 4.6km of Central Road ending around 412 Central Road
Further information, if required, relating to this temporary road closure can be obtained from our Customer Services Team
Public notice
(Section 101, Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012)
Kallayanee Limited of Dargaville, has made application to the Kaipara District Licensing Committee for the issue of an BYO on-licence in respect of the premises situated at 52 Normanby St Dargaville known as Pad Thai Dargaville
The general nature of the business conducted under the licence is Restaurant
The days on which and the hours during which alcohol is intended to be sold under the licence are: Monday to Sunday 11am to 10pm.
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 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 first publication of this notice.
DARGAVILLE HEALING rooms 7pm Tuesdays. No charge & no appointment necessary. Lion of Judah Building, River Road. All Welcome. Check us out on Facebook.
Thank you
The whānau of Maringi “Bling Bling” Hagger would like to express our sincere gratitude for the support we received in this difficult time and for all the donations, koha, kind words and overall presence which surrounded us with much needed aroha and comfort. Special acknowledgement to Te Hā O Te Oranga where Ma so lovingly and tirelessly worked.
Doris May Jensen
Passed peacefully while surrounded by family on 20th of June 2025.
He āniwaniwa i tawhanatia te rangi. A rainbow that arched the sky. He kahu raukura i kākāhuria ai te whenua.
A feathered cloak that clothed the land. He menemene i whiria ai ngā iwi. A smile that plaited the people together. Te aroha mutunga kore ki ā tātou. Never ending love to us all.
Beloved wife of late Maurice. Beloved mother of Maria, David, Larry and Shalini. Much loved by grandchildren and great grandchildren. Funeral service at 11am on 26th June 2025 at Dargaville Baptist Community Church. Contact Larry 021 471 251
Nominations received
Thank you Kauri Coast (Life Care)
Pahi Regatta Club will be having their
AGM
At the Clubrooms at 7pm on Monday 14th July 2025
Mamaranui Bowling Club AGM
NOTICE OF DAY OF ELECTION FOR THE 2025 ELECTION OF RATEPAYER MEMBERS FOR RAUPŌ DRAINAGE COMMITTEE
Notice is given that the following persons have been duly nominated as candidates for: Raupō Drainage Committee (six vacancies)
Last Name First Names
BEATTIE Ian
DRAGICEVICH Joseph
EVANS Kevin
GENT Greg
HART David
LE GROS Grace
MCKINLEY Ross
As there are more candidates than there are vacancies to be filled, an election will be held between the listed candidates on Tuesday, 29 July 2025. It will be held as a First Past the Post election by postal vote.
Issuing of voting documents
Voting documents will be posted to electors from Thursday, 26 June 2025. Those eligible to vote are ratepayers in the Raupō Drainage targeted rate area. One voting document will be sent to each rateable property within the Raupō Drainage area.
Return of voting documents
Voting documents must be returned not later than noon, Tuesday, 29 July 2025, to the returning officer.
Voting documents can be returned by post or hand delivered at the following council offices between Thursday, 26 June 2025 and Monday, 28 July 2025 during normal office hours, and Tuesday, 29 July 2025 between 9am to 12 noon:
Kaipara District Council offices:
• 32 Hokianga Road, Dargaville
• Unit 6, The Hub, 6 Molesworth Drive, Mangawhai
A polling place will also be located at the Ruawai-Tokatoka Memorial Hall from 9am to 12 noon on Tuesday, 29 July 2025 for the hand delivery of voting documents.
Jason Marris
Returning Officer
Kaipara District Council
32 Hokianga Road, Dargaville 24 June 2025
