Kaipara Lifestyler, April 16th 2024

an outdoor adventure.

Growing a billion-dollar economy

p Dargaville High School students Dani Lowe and Eva Bakulich embarked on a 21-day adventure with several outdoor activities hikes, tramped and made paths through the bush.

“All of my family are from Dargaville. I was nervous being away from home initially, but I didn’t want to return once I got used to it. Sometimes I prefer it there. You aren’t allowed your phone, and I think you make better connections without them,” said Eva. “I prefer being outdoors than in a classroom and found I learnt more at the course. A highlight for me was the connections I’ve made with the other Northland students and being able to find myself.

“One part involved figuring out our top four values and completing a lone run to help explore ourselves. My values were self-control, dependability, family and God’s will.”

Dargaville High School was given two $5,795 scholarships for the 21-day Mind Body Soul (kotahitanga) course at Anakiwa in the Marlborough Sounds.

“I love the outdoors, especially forest activities. As long as I’m doing something outside, I’m happy,” Dani said.

“We paid for our travel expenses. We flew from Auckland to Blenheim to gather with about 50 Northland students and took an hour ferry from Picton to the Outward Bound school in Anakiwa. I loved how we were constantly doing something.

“We did activities like co-steering, which involved climbing on rocks around the coast and jumping into the water, and how to do that safely. We planned

“When we were hiking, we had a ground sheet and a fly instead of tents and had cooking tools that we had to light ourselves. It felt like they did it spontaneously, but gave us enough information to be prepared. I enjoyed sailing, too.

“We are thankful to our sponsors. We appreciate it — your sponsorship did not go to waste. The course is suitable for anybody and some courses work around people with injuries. I encourage other people who want to be outdoors or find themselves to experience it. It is life-changing.” ¢

The Kaipara District Council’s three-year recovery focussed Long Term Plan has gone out for public consultation, with staff and elected members urging citizens to read it and have their say.

While the LTP is available online at kaipara.govt.nz/ltp, there are ample options for residents and ratepayers to talk to senior council officials in person, thanks to a series of community engagement workshops that kicked off on April 6 in Dargaville.

“We urge everyone to engage with this. Read the LTP document, make a submission, and express yourself,” said council CEO Jason Marris, fronting a panel of KDC staff at last week’s community market day.

Thursday, April 18 will see an LTP drop-in session at Te Ha Oranga’s Dargaville Hospital site between 11am and 12.30pm, with Paparoa Markets hosting a session on Saturday, April 20 from 9am. The LTP will be discussed at the MAZ in Mangawhai on

April 21, between 11am and 1pm, then twice at the Mangawhai Museum, on Tuesday, April 23 from 2pm to 3pm, and Friday, April 26 from 11am until noon.

Dargaville Library will also host two LTP meetings on Monday, April 22 between 10am and 11am, and again on Monday, April 29 at the same times. ¢

The Kaipara District Council’s economic development committee has been hard at work constructing a draft plan to grow local prosperity; in the process, it has provided a deeper look at what drives the Kaipara economy.

Importantly, the document produced for the review of the panel of councillors tasked with spurring prosperity revealed that Kaipara is now officially a billiondollar district. In 2023, the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of Kaipara surged past the $1 billion milestone, with agriculture, manufacturing, construction, forestry and fisheries all leading the charge.

With the population increasing and towns such as Mangawhai projected to double in size by mid-century, the development of a strategy to channel and foster growth is important, say KDC economic advisers.

“The Kaipara District is well positioned for growth; tourism, lifestyle and investment opportunities make Kaipara an attractive proposition. That said we have some significant infrastructure issues to overcome in fibre coverage, roading, water, housing, public transport — all in short supply,” said KDC economic development lead Paul Thompson.

The draft KDC economic development framework identifies seven key areas needing to be addressed to grow the local economy. These include defining a long-term vision for how the district will look in the future, building local pride

through a clear identity, helping foster thriving communities, supporting optimised land use and development, and strengthening upskilling and training in the local labour market.

The final two factors address the need to invest in infrastructure and amenities to attract both residential and business growth, with reference made in this week’s meeting to the possibilities afforded by the coalition government’s forthcoming $1.2 billion Regional Infrastructure Fund, successor to the Provincial Growth Fund. ¢

p Come and have your say on the Long Term Plan as KDC representatives bring their ideas to the community for feedback, say Jason Marris and Hayley Worthington

p Councillors Larsen, Manderson (pictured), Howard, Lambeth and Nayyar are the KDC’s economic development committee members

School bus accident in Ruawai

u by Andy Bryenton

Emergency services, including Ruawai volunteer firefighters and the Northland rescue helicopter, attended what was described as a chaotic scene when a school bus and car collided near Ruawai last Wednesday.

The collision occurred at the intersection of Tramline and Dunn roads after the end of the school day. Several of

the students aboard the bus were injured, and one of the people in the SUV that collided with it was airlifted to hospital.

The smaller vehicle fell into one of the deep culverts, a feature of many Ruawai roads, while the bus narrowly avoided the

same fate. Police are investigating the cause of the accident. ¢

u by Natalie Robinson, WRMK Lawyers

The rising cost of living is no joke, and it means many homeowners are currently considering whether they can get a better deal on their current home loan finance.

If you’re looking to

and

one

you may

that you

usually

a lawyer

do so. While you may think that the bank can give you the required paperwork, there are a few reasons why getting legal advice upfront can pay off in the long term. Your lawyer can:

1. Identify issues such as the name on your property’s title being different to the name on the bank lending. This avoids complications and delays to refinancing due to needing to reissue paperwork.

2. Check the rates on your property are not in arrears (a requirement for most new lending) and make sure you know what you will need to supply for your new lending (such as an insurance certificate).

3. Assist you with any other conditions required for your new lending, for example, repaying other debt, such as closing off your Afterpay or Gem Visa.

4. Discharge your old mortgage and register the new one; there’s a bit more behind refinancing as well as moving money from one bank to another.

5. Meet with you to explain the process and help you sign your lending documents.

6. Give you a realistic idea of the

timeframe to organise your paperwork to switch your lending.

Refinancing can usually be done quite quickly, as long as you can provide all the necessary information to your lawyer.

It’s best to let your lawyer know you’re likely to refinance as soon as you start talking to your new lender so they can identify any issues that may take more time and let you know the documents that will be needed from you to make the process as efficient as possible.

Another top tip — If you’re refinancing, make sure you ask your new lender about their cashback options, as they will often provide a cash payment which is intended to help with your legal fees.

If you would like help refinancing your home loan, WRMK Lawyers’ team of experienced, local property lawyers will be happy to assist. ¢

Chair opposes decision’s reversal Asset sale to ease financial strain

u by Andy Bryenton u by Andy Bryenton

Ian Beattie, chairperson of the Raupō Drainage Committee, has hit back at a recent vote to reverse December’s council decision, which would see a surplus property in Ruawai sold to pay for capital works to Ruawai’s flood protection infrastructure.

A vote on the sale of 16 Wharf Road, a property owned by the Raupō Drainage Committee (RDC) before the existence of the Kaipara District Council and maintained thereafter by that body, allocated the net proceeds of the sale to the Raupō drainage scheme budget for capital works. The motion to do so was carried five votes to three. Last week, councillors voted to reverse this decision and now wish to use monies from the sale to pay down debt.

“As the elected representatives of the district, you analysed and accepted the unique circumstances surrounding the ownership of the house. You exercised your democratic powers to make a decision you ultimately believed was the right thing to do. Nothing has changed,” said RDC chair Ian Beattie, speaking against a reversal of the decision.

He opines that the fiscal advantage to the district of claiming the proceeds of the asset sale amounts to only approximately $1 for each ratepaying household, but the cost of undertaking capital works, identified as necessary following Cyclone Gabrielle, could add more than $700 to the rates bill for Ruawai citizens.

Furthermore, his position in resisting a policy reversal referenced the moral implications of legislative inconsistency.

“One should not manipulate the rules of the council to retrospectively enforce one’s will,” said Mr Beattie. “Autocracy is not democracy. This decision is purely politically motivated.

“The duplicitous character of the faction within this administration is quite alarming and should be of great concern to all ratepayers of Kaipara.”

The vote to reverse the decision passed and the sale will be used to pay down debt. ¢

Driving down debt to reduce interest payments was the right call, say councillors who spoke with their votes on a contentious issue in Ruawai.

The Kaipara District Council voted on April 3 to reverse a decision regarding the disbursement of funds from the sale of the former headquarters of the Raupō Drainage Board, citing reasons of fiscal responsibility and policy precedent.

The KDC acknowledges that the property at 16 Ruawai Wharf Road was acquired by the Raupō Drainage Board (the committee) in the late 1970s, prior to local government reorganisation in 1989. All RDB assets were transferred to Kaipara District Council ownership when the Raupō Drainage Board was amalgamated with local councils in 1989.

In rescinding the decision, mayor Craig Jepson drew attention to the council’s treasury policy, which says funds from all asset sales will be applied to the reduction of debt unless the council specifically directs that the funds be put to another use.

“We need to stick to the council’s own treasury policy and not set a precedent,” says Mr Jepson. “We’re working through this LTP to save every dollar we can. It all adds up.”

If the proceeds from the sale were used to repay debt, the council’s interest payments are estimated to reduce by approximately $17,500 a year.

“We’re inviting community ideas on further savings we might make through the LTP consultation process,” said the mayor. “We will continue to support the wonderful work done by the Raupō Drainage Committee, however and whenever we can, through the right avenues, particularly through external funding that may become available.” ¢

p Ian Beattie spoke out on a recent policy reversal in his role as Raupō Drainage Board chair and a private citizen, not as an employee of the KDC

p Kaipara’s mayor supports the premise that reducing debt, and hence the interest burden affecting council coffers and rates, is the responsible choice

Exploring creative new worlds Kindness spread in Kaipara

A pop-up clinic hosted by creative technology innovators AwhiWorld has proven a hit in Dargaville, with new ideas sparking a raft of potential endeavours.

On April 6, AwhiWorld and the Dargaville Arts Association collaborated for the second time in two years to explore the boundaries of expression using digital tech.

“As an artist, learning about new technology means that I have more options. There’s a lot of possibilities,” says Dargaville multi-media creator Liam Martyn Astbury.

“I think it’s exciting to see what you can get by combining these ideas.”

AwhiWorld’s representatives Jarred Taylor and Kim Newall transformed Dargaville’s Art Loft space above the Anzac Cinema into a realm of digital creative visions for the weekend clinic, deploying virtual reality, projection mapping, 3D scanning and printing and other innovative new ideas.

A large number of locals stopped by to sample the combinations of art and technology on display, including educators, students and people supporting the local

museum. Projects were discussed that could use some of the clinic’s new ideas to help illustrate both fact and fiction, art and history.

Brand new for this April’s presentation was a 3D printer that can construct items from wood, not by carving them out of a solid block, but by depositing tiny pixels of natural resin charged with ultra-fine sawdust. This means that a digital image can be reproduced in a sustainable, natural material, and there are possible applications for everything from furniture restoration to sculpture. ¢

SPEAK for Kaipara

Kōrerorero mō Kaipara ōrerorero ara

Recently, three Kaipara towns featured in the Hidden Blessings Easter Eggstravaganza, a nationwide egg hunt to improve people’s lives.

“We go around the country hiding $50 notes. We mixed it up during Easter and put the money inside some plastic eggs. It was effectively a nationwide Easter egg hunt. We got our Kaipara-based family members to hide money in Mangawhai, Maungatūroto and Kaiwaka for us,” said an HB co-founder who wants to remain anonymous.

Every hour between 9am and 4pm for two days on Easter weekend, a new egg location was released from Christchurch to Kaipara.

“It was a personal endeavour started by myself and my younger sister when we identified that this year is difficult for people financially.”

The anonymous co-founder was inspired when he brought a man living in his car with his partner searching for food at an Auckland Kentucky Fried Chicken store. It reminded him of Instagram’s cash_catch, who hides money in Amsterdam.

“I thought hiding $50 in communities that need a hand would be good. Some of the stories are amazing, like when someone ran out of petrol and was walking down the road with a jerrycan when they saw my video. Those stories are rewarding and drive me and everyone involved to do it.”

To sponsor the cause, contact hiddenblessingsnz@gmail.com, or for more information, visit the Hidden Blessings NZ Facebook page or instagram. com/hiddenblessingsnz.

“Ten people helped me do the Easter Eggstravaganza, and they are good, kindhearted individuals who want to make a difference.” ¢

We are calling for your feedback to help us build our Long Term Plan for the next three years.

You can read the consultation document online at www.kaipara.govt.nz/ltp and give us your feedback Copies of the consultation document and source documents can also be viewed at both council offices

You can provide feedback on any part of the consultation document, as well as any of the source documents There are some key areas we are asking for feedback from you to help us make decisions for Kaipara.

Have your say

• Online submission form, available at kaipara.govt.nz/ltp

• PDF form at the back of the consultation document (also available online)

• Paper forms from any of our offices or libraries

• Drop-in sessions where you can speak to an elected member and someone is available to help you complete your submission These are all listed in the table to the right

It’s easiest to complete your submission online. If you prefer to complete your submission on paper you can deliver it to any Kaipara District Council office or library across the Kaipara District, or post it to Kaipara District Council Long Term Plan submissions, Private Bag 1001, Dargaville 0340

Submissions close 11 59pm Saturday 4 May 2024

If you have any queries, please email haveyoursay@kaipara govt nz or call our customer services centre on 09 439 7059

You can view your proposed rates for the 2024/2025 year at www.kaipara.govt.nz/calculator

Kōrero Mai Talk to Us!

In Person

Te Ha drop in session (kuia and kaumatua day)

77 Awakino Road, Dargaville Hospital

Thursday 18 April, 11 00am-12 30pm

Paparoa Market Saturday 20 April, 9 00am-1 00pm

Mangawhai Activity Zone (MAZ) drop in session Saturday 21 April, 11 00am-1 00pm

Dargaville Library drop in session Monday 22 April, 10 00am-11 00am

Mangawhai Museum drop in session Tuesday 23 April, 2 00pm-3 00pm

Mangawhai Museum drop in session Friday 26 April, 11 00am-12 00pm

Dargaville Library drop in session Monday 29 April, 10 00am-11 00am

Online

LTP online event - facebook event

Wednesday 1 May from 7 00pm

u by Andy Bryenton u by Amy Fifita

p Liam Martyn Astbury and Kim Newall are immersed in a moving, ever-changing digitally mapped projection as part of the recent pop-up clinic

p One of the stowaway locations where money was found was the Hurndall Street Reserve in Maungatūroto

Emergency Services Fund shouldn’t be cut

I write to express my dismay and disappointment at the comments of the Northland Regional Council (NRC) on page one of April 9 2024 edition of the Kaipara Lifestyler.

Councillors Tui Shortland, Geoff Crawford and others in the NRC are clearly out of touch with the Northland community in suggesting the Emergency Services Fund should be cut.

It is utterly arrogant to take ratepayer money that has been targeted and prioritised to help save lives for many years, an attempt to play God by diverting that money to pet projects that are not a priority in Northland. These people claim they are trying to lessen a rates rise, but everyone (and I mean everyone) that I have spoken to is more than happy to pay $1 a month, if not more, to ensure the continuation of our world-class emergency/rescue helicopter service, which has helped to look after us since 1988.

In my opinion, it appears NRC clearly underestimates the intelligence, care and business acumen of their ratepayers. They have totally misread the room if they think this stance is not going to backfire on them. They have also been getting their facts wrong in media in recent months about just how emergency services are funded, let alone the difference between Crown-owned entities such as police and FENZ and community-owned charities like Northland Emergency Services Trust.

Thankfully, the Minister for Emergency Management Mark Mitchell, a former police officer, who knows plenty about emergency management, has called the NRC out and completely embarrassed it for its lack of understanding of how

funding works at a central government versus local government level and just who is responsible for what.

One of the core functions of the NRC is emergency preparedness and community resilience, so how ironic that Civil Defence sits under the NRC. When there is a crisis in our region, the folks at Civil Defence (good people, I must point out) need all emergency services with urgency. Many of those services are made up of volunteers and struggle to find funding to operate at the best of times. It appears NRC is hell-bent on making life harder for local emergency services that are critical to our daily safety, who without funding, might not be there to help when we need them most. With the above in mind, and from where I am sitting, NRC is looking to move in another direction to what is a 100% core function of theirs. How can they not see that is beyond me and many Northlanders I speak to?

Like so many good-hearted Northlanders, I am heavily involved in the community and hear the community’s voice daily. They all support our emergency services and first responders in our region and want to see it continue. So PLEASE, I urge everyone without delay to email a submission to submissions@NRC.govt.nz and oppose the NRC’s attempt to scrap the Emergency Services Fund. If you don’t have Internet or can’t email, then phone them on 0800 002 004 and let them know what you think. One thing is for sure if the fund is scrapped, there is a real possibility that it will put people’s lives at risk. You only have until April 19 to have your say.

Yours sincerely, Ant Blundell — a proud Northlander!

Musical theatre masterclass

u by Andy Bryenton

This April, Te Manu Tioriori Trust, with the support of Creative Northland, will deliver a world-class musical theatre workshop free of charge at Dargaville High School.

“This dynamic and exciting workshop is perfect for anyone who is passionate about musical theatre and wants to upskill and meet like-minded people from around the region. Luke DI Somma studied at the Tisch School of the Arts at New York University on a Fulbright Scholarship and is now based in Melbourne,” says Creative Northland’s Kylee Newbold.

This month, the acclaimed composer, writer and musical director will visit Kaipara to share his insight into the arts. From April 24 through until April 26, Mr Di Somma will share his experience and skill with those interested in taking to the stage or crafting their own performances.

The workshop, to be held at Dargaville High School, will cover musical theatre performance, singing, acting, writing and creating. It is designed for actors, singers, writers and composers from the age of 16 to adult.

It’s an event Creative Northland calls an incredible opportunity and a chance to work closely with one of New Zealand’s leading musical theatre

professionals. Luke Di Somma is the cowriter of the Kate Sheppard rock musical That Bloody Woman, the composer of the New Zealand Opera’s recent hit The Unruly Tourists, and co-creator and songwriter for the new television series Happiness. You can register to take part in this free workshop by visiting bit.ly/ TMTTWorkshop.

WEST COAST SERVICES

We service and repair all makes and models of tractors and machinery at your farm or at our workshop located at 100A Jervois Street Dargaville. We also offer Air Conditioning for tractors and a new scan tool.

Contact Adam our Engineering manager for any jobs you are planning on. Office: 027 213 9665 VACANCY

We are on the lookout for enthusiastic team players with mechanical and engineering knowledge preferred to join our fun team.

Phone Ella: 027 213 9665

¢

p Former PM Jacinda Ardern with musical theatre composer, creator and director Luke Di Somma at a performance of his rock opera charting the life and times of Kate Sheppard

8 Montgomery Avenue, Dargaville

Look What’s Behind the Blue Door

$690,000 (Price indication)

You will fall in love with this fabulous family home as soon as you walk in the door. The home is spacious, light filled and has a wonderful warm feel with a contemporary twist. The chef in the family will love the superb kitchen and gorgeous granite benchtops. The open plan living flows to a rear patio and onto a huge level lawn area for the whole family to enjoy. There is plenty of room for vege gardens, family pets and so much more.

The home has three double bedrooms with the large master having a beautiful ensuite, very unusual for a home of this era.

There is also a separate laundry, entry foyer and internal stairs down to a full basement, what a bonus. There is garaging, a workshop area and as the saying goes “storage for Africa”.

There is also plenty of off-street parking for your boat, caravan or trailer. Don’t delay viewing this fabulous family home.

The Dargaville Police Station’s front counter has officially reopened and has welcomed station support officer Kimberley Rope-Battcher in a ceremony.

“It was a day of welcome and celebration. We welcomed Kimberley and Wendy Sadgrove, and both of them will be fulfilling special toanga in our Kaipara community.

Area commander Inspector Maria Nordstrom was a pivotal figure in the reopening. New district commander Superintendent Matthew Srhoj also attended the ceremony.

“About 10 months ago, I was welcomed back to the area as the area commander at the beautiful Naumai Marae. Within two weeks, the voices of the Dargaville community were speaking loudly. They presented me with a petition with more than 150 signatures about the urgent need and desire to have the Dargaville Police Station front counter opened again.”

The Dargaville Police Station is a place of significance for Inspector Nordstrom as she began her policing career.

“As a constable, I spent many hours and years working in this community

A team made whole Fire brigade digest — March

I understood the call, and we are very fortunate to have got here.”

Kimberley will be manning the front counter, supporting police and completing various administration work. She was born in Dargaville and came from an education background.

“I appreciate the fight they had to have the front desk opened again and am grateful to Sergeants Steve Dickson and Kiley Dalbeth and the team. I feel very privileged and the doors have been opened since late March. I am getting to know the community and their needs.” ¢

Dargaville’s dedicated team of volunteer firefighters attended 26 calls for the month of March.

These included one response to a fire alarm sounding, one chimney fire, six medical emergencies where firefighters assisted medical first responders, three rubbish fires, and a call to establish a landing zone for the rescue helicopter.

There were also seven motor vehicle accidents, two vegetation fires, a house fire, three car fires and one call-out for a fire in the vicinity. All in all, a busy month, heading into cooler autumn weather.

This leads to a timely fire safety reminder centred on the end of daylight saving time and the advent of colder nights. Everyone is reminded to check their smoke alarms at this time of year, testing their effectiveness by making

sure that the batteries are fresh and charged up and that they are situated in places where they’ll quickly alert you to smoke.

For those with fireplaces, it’s time to get your annual check-up. Get a qualified person to make sure there are no bird’s nests and soot deposits in the flue that could ignite. It’s often a requirement of your home insurance to have the flue swept and the firebox checked for a winter of safe heating.

Two final things. If you’re going to use an electric blanket this winter, have it checked out by an electrician to make sure it’s safe. Remember to keep heaters away from furniture, curtains and other objects by at least one metre. ¢

p Station support officer Kimberley Rope-Battcher addressed the crowd at the ceremony and said her predecessors are still welcome

Rhonda Bradley Licensed Salesperson 021 456 265 Ltd REAA (2008)

Mark Owers Brand and Territory Owner 027 479 1385

Māori celebrate culture

u

by Amy Fifita

Kaipara was represented by three Kaipara schools at the Te Tai Tokerau Secondary Schools Kapa Haka Festival 2024 last Wednesday and Thursday, hosted at Ōkaihau College.

“The festival celebrated the skills, talents, hard work and learnings developed from last year. It’s a great way to showcase the future leaders in Te Tai Tokerau and Māori performing arts for younger generations to aspire to,” said Dargaville High School Māori department head Laken Kelly.

Dargaville High School, Ruawai College and Ōtamatea High School performed at the festival. Ōkaihau College hosted the event that saw 26 secondary schools from across Northland attend.

Motivated to move

u by Amy Fifita

Several Northern Wairoa schools gathered at Memorial Park and Pioneer Park, Dargaville to sample various sporting activities last Wednesday.

“We set up various sports so tamariki can learn some skills, have fun and spend time with their friends,” said Sport Northland school connector Leesa Andrewes.

“We have continued to enjoy the manaakitanga (hospitality) of Te Houhanga A Rongo Marae for our eightweek campaign. Representing Te Uri O Hau hapū, Te Roroa and Te Kuihi, our school and the Dargaville community, was an honour.

“The students displayed pride and responsibility both on and off the stage. We are proud of them and how they carried themselves.”

Laken said the group felt wellsupported, with teachers and family

attending their performance and those in Dargaville watching the Te Hiku Media livestream.

“The students enjoyed feeling their diligence paid off with a well-delivered and well-received performance. There are few spaces, especially in our educational system, where students can freely express themselves in their cultural setting.

“This event, among others, gives cause to celebrate and revel in the knowledge we are a part of retaining, revitalising and normalising Te Reo Māori me ōnā Tikanga (Māori language and practices).” ¢

“I enjoy sports because it is motivating. Being active provides health benefits that you can feel as you are doing it or shortly after. It is a great way to connect with people and an awesome way to serve the community by giving back to younger members in the sports you are involved in.”

Children engaged in Rippa Rugby, golf, netball, basketball, football (soccer) and the Tū Manawa Active Play Trailer. Ruawai Primary School, Selwyn Park School, Te Kōpuru School, Arapohue School and Tangowahine School juniors were invited to attend.

“We are trying to expose the children to sports they normally wouldn’t play, like golf. Hopefully, it can grow their tamariki membership.”

Leesa

Northern Wairoa schools and is part of the Northern Wairoa Primary School Sports Association.

“The schools wanted to see this event happen, so I helped make it happen. It is wonderful to see tamariki, whānau, kaiako (teachers) and coaches enjoying sports, getting active and moving.

“Thank you to the schools for engaging and for the whānau support.

It is awesome we have the facilities centralised as one hub so we can have a multisport event. It is great to have it.” ¢

p Last Wednesday, Te Kapa Haka O Tākiwira represented Dargaville High School and Kaipara at the Te Tai Tokerau Secondary Schools Kapa Haka Festival 2024 Photo: Moana Te Tuhi

works with the

p Arapohue School student George Bell Tuhiwai-Pou made a dash with the ball during the Rippa Rugby activities against Te Kōpuru School

Glinks Gully locals pitch in Fire, fun and family this Friday

Glinks Gully residents banded together to help protect their shorefront ecosystem as autumn weather rolled in, building on previous successes in coastal ecology.

A large group of locals met during the Easter holiday period to tackle invasive pest plants, weeds and vandalism, supporting the integrity of the dunes on this stretch of the Ripiro Coast. Prior events there have helped to transform the beachfront park and its environs, and dune planting has aided in maintaining a habitat for wildlife.

“The chief organiser was Christine Anderson from the Glinks Gully Protection Society, and the event was supported by the Northland Regional Council,” says local resident and GGPS secretary Nicola Puharich.

“We had a great turnout, with around 20 volunteers from our community.”

Volunteers waded in to bust invasive wattle trees, which were felled with chainsaws. A large number of seedlings and seed pods were also removed. An entire trailer load of smothering Cape ivy was torn out and disposed of, too. With the good conduct of off-road drivers on the beach in mind, the fence

blocking off the sensitive dune areas to the south of Marine Drive was restored, forming a clear and visible barrier again after vandals tore it down, confusing other drivers.

“The fence was repaired to stop 4WDs unlawfully accessing the track there, which is for walkers and bikes only,” says Nicola. “People had been driving up over the fence, destroying parts of it in the process, though why people think it’s OK to drive over a fence is beyond me.”

The team finished their very successful day’s work with a welldeserved morning tea. ¢

Circus Kumarani will host an interactive, family-friendly fire night this Friday, with the chance to witness some incredible skills and learn the basics, too.

“We’re calling it a funraiser,” says Tania Whetū, who is helping to organise the event, hosted at Kumarani’s Dargavillebased creative centre.

“It’s an opportunity to come and see some exciting performances, and a chance to give them a try yourself, in a safe environment. It’s also a good opportunity for us to talk to the public and ask what they would like to see us do, as their local community circus.”

With the Kumarani team gearing up for another round of free school holiday programmes and looking ahead to their 21st birthday in just 10 weeks, raising funds to maintain their community engagement is vitally important.

There will be a live DJ playing tunes to accompany the fire staff, poi, fire juggling and other spectacular skills. Unlike many such events, at this one, visitors are encouraged to give it a go and will be helped to gain confidence and skills by performance experts.

It only costs $5 to take part and lasts from 6pm until 8pm on Friday, April 21, at 15 Onslow Street, opposite Dargaville’s community pools. Please wear natural fabrics like denim, cotton and wool if you’d like to give fire spinning and juggling a go. It’s very safe so long as you’re wearing non-synthetic threads. This is a family event for all ages to enjoy.

Alternatively, to help keep Circus Kumarani working in the community, you can make a donation through givealittle. co.nz by searching ‘Kumarani’. ¢

u by Andy Bryenton u by Andy Bryenton

p Part of the volunteer team surveys a swag of Cape ivy, which will no longer threaten native plants and trees

p Ever wanted to try fire spinning and dancing? This Friday, Circus Kumarani will show you how and light up the night for those who just want to spectate, too

A win for everyone A march in March

u by Amy Fifita u by Amy Fifita

Councillor Pera Paniora represented Kaipara at the New Zealander of the Year Awards, accepting the Mitre 10 Community of the Year award, an accolade given to all Cyclone Gabrielle volunteers.

“I was honoured as a community leader to be asked to accept the award on behalf of the Cyclone Gabrielle volunteers. It is something positive that has come out of a very difficult and challenging time,” said councillor Paniora.

Volunteers from Cyclone Gabriellestricken regions were chosen to represent their areas at the ceremony. On behalf of all volunteers, Task Kiwi national director Richard Adams and Awhi Shed founder Tua Teio were presented with the award.

Councillor Paniora helped with various efforts, including setting up a community evacuation hub, delivering food and water and organising clean-up efforts at her marae — Te Houhanga Marae.

“Casting my mind back to the cyclone, I was proud and moved by our community

and how we all pulled together. Our local marae, Dargaville High School and our Brethren community were instrumental in the community-led efforts.

“I was moved to tears by the assistance of the Brethren community. They did not hesitate to provide me with sandbags to save my 110-year-old marae from the gushing flood waters in and around it, and for that I am grateful.

“To those who donated and provided necessities and resources, time and effort without any remuneration, this award is for you.”

Recently, the Cyclone Gabrielle Appeal Trust has opened a new fund to help with further Cyclone Gabrielle recovery efforts. For more information, visit cycloneappeal.org.nz. ¢

Maungatūroto-based Kaipara Marchers recently showcased their rhythm at the 31st Leisure Marching Nationals in Invercargill.

“We are getting Maungatūroto on the map, and I am very proud of the Kaipara Marchers. Marching is about fun, fitness and friendship. The team has been going for a decade, and they all love it,” said coach Lyn Hutchings.

“I love marching. I marched when I was a teenager and got back into it again when I was 63 years old in Maungatūroto, and was one of the original ladies who was here when the team started. I coach them and make their displays up, this year, with the help of another lady.”

The leisure marchers were not judged on their performance, and in late March, they displayed their skills to other teams, managers and the public in Invercargill.

“It was the first time we had marched in Invercargill. It was good to see the faces of other teams again. A highlight for me was going to Bluff.”

Marchers dressed up for the Winter Wonderland-themed dinner, which is held in different parts of the country each year.

“There is a lot to think about with counting so it is good for the brain and great exercise for the body. It also helps promote stability, coordination and balance.

“I coach and march for two teams — the Kaipara Marchers and the Whangāreibased Northern Star. I made the display for Purple Reign, too. With fun marching, we can march to pop or band music.” ¢

Phone Darryl: 021 854 167

darryltregidga@gmail.com

BUYERS VS SELLERS MARKET

Hi my name is India Williamson, I’m here to offer relevant insight on how the market is currently sitting and would love to answer any of your questions!

The media often discusses buyer’s markets and seller’s markets in real estate, prompting the question: What do these terms mean?

• In a buyer’s market, buyers have numerous options as there are more listings available compared to a seller’s market. These dynamic’s force a seller and their agents to exert considerable effort to attract buyers. The surplus of options translates to reduced competition for each property, empowering buyers to negotiate from a position of strength and submit offers with flexible conditions.

• In a Seller’s Market many buyers compete for a limited number of properties, resulting in higher offers coming through or becoming multiple offers. Intense competition compels buyers to make unconditional offers to increase their chances of success. Essentially, a buyer’s market simplifies the offer-making process for individuals.

Buyers aim to thoroughly explore all potential options before deciding, resulting in increased time on the market for each property. With a plethora of choices available, there’s a need to carefully examine all possibilities before committing to an offer.

We are currently in a buyer’s market giving buyers more leverage but not necessarily leading to drastic price drops. Most sellers are willing to move but not desperate, so negotiations typically result in slight discounts from peak prices. It’s unlikely that offers substantially below the property’s value will succeed just because it’s a buyer’s market.

Great properties still sell!

In real estate, it’s often said that appealing properties sell regardless of market conditions. Even in a downturn, attractive homes still attract competitive interest, although the overall number of offers may decrease. Conversely, challenging properties may linger longer on the market, allowing buyers the luxury of time to consider their options, knowing that more properties will become available in due course.

I am always open for a friendly chat and to answer any questions about how the market is currently sitting. Please feel free to reach out anytime! consider

p Councillor Pera Paniora (front third from right) represented the Kaipara Cyclone Gabrielle volunteers to receive the Mitre 10 Community of the Year award

p The Kaipara Marchers dressed the part for the Winter Wonderland-themed dinner hosted by the Invercargill team

Dargaville

Dawn parade at the RSA cemetery, Old Golf Course Road, Mt Wesley, at 5.45am for a 6am start. Citizens’ services: 10.30am at the Memorial Hall, Hokianga Road, Dargaville.

Glinks Gully

Commemoration Service at Glinks at 10am.

Ruawai

Citizens’ service at the War Memorial Hall, Wharf Road at 10.30am.

Matakohe

Matakohe Memorial Hall, Cemetery and adjacent Kauri Museum. At 10.30am, fall in at the hall, where parade marshall Craig Linton, on his horse, will gather the assembled community for the parade around the cemetery to the flagpole, led by a piper. Wreaths will be laid at the first world war monument, a poppy detail at the grave of former prime minister Gordon Coates and the War Memorial Hall. The community will then gather inside the Volunteers Hall of the Kauri Museum for a civic ceremony. A special exhibition of local men who served in the world wars will be on display. All are welcome.

Maungatūroto

Dawn service at the Centennial Hall opposite the cemetery on View Road. Assembly 5.45am for a 6am start. This will be followed by breakfast at the RSA clubroom on Hurndall Street and brunch at 11am. All welcome.

Hakaru

The service organised by the Hakaru and Districts Memorial RSA will start with an assembly at 10am, followed by the march at 10.30am. The programme will include wreath laying, a roll of honour call and speeches. Refreshments will be served at the conclusion.

Waipu

Citizens’ service at the Presbyterian Church, The Centre, at 11am.

Wellsford

The parade commences at 5.50am to 13 Port Albert Road. Service is at 6am at the Wellsford Memorial Library road. Road

closure details: Port Albert Road (between Davies Road and Rodney Street) and Memorial Lane (between Worker Road and Port Albert Road) from 4.45am until 7.15am followed by refreshments at the RSA at 1 Olympus Road.

Whangārei

Citizens’ services will be held at the services section, Maunu Lawn Cemetery, Cemetery Road, Maunu at 10am; Pehiaweri Marae, Ngunguru Road, Glenbervie at 10am; St Paul’s Church, Memorial Hall, Boswell Street, Te Kamo, at 10am. ¢

One of the first ashore at Anzac

A simple artefact returned from halfway around the world has brought into focus the story of a Kaipara soldier and how Gallipoli changed his life.

Edwin Battensby enlisted to fight, coming into Dargaville from his home in Okahu on August 18 1914. He was the son of farmers Charles and Louisa Battensby, educated at a small schoolhouse near Tokatoka, and worked as a forester in the hinterland of the Northern Wairoa River. He came to town intent on serving his country, along with 24 other local men who hiked out of the kauri bush and into the first world war. By October 1914, he was kitted out as part of the Auckland Infantry Battalion, and aboard a ship bound for Gallipoli. Edwin is listed as one of the first Kiwi soldiers to hit the beach there on April 12 1915.

Edwin Battensby survived the vicious campaign, though he was in the thick of the fighting on May 7 and 9 1915, at the hilltop battlefield known as the Daisy Patch. The Evening Star reported on how he, along with two comrades, attempted to rescue their colonel under heavy fire.

‘We got well out on the ‘patch’ when a perfect inferno let loose. The death hail cut our boys down. Only a few still ran; a few reached some poor cover near the Turkish trenches. We lost all our officers. Colonel Plugge got hit twice being helped to safety by W De Andrad, E Battensby, and W McCraithe, who all turned back for that purpose.’

Edwin, the E Battensby of this dispatch, went back out into enemy fire to rescue an officer, but he was badly wounded in the arm. He was sent to England to recover, and in Weymouth, he met Minnie Jamieson, whom he married. The couple moved to Auckland after the war, where he would serve as a tram driver for the city. He died in 1958, with Minnie passing soon after. Some of her belongings were sent to England to relatives there. However, in May 2023, Edwin Battensby’s Kiwi family members received a surprise contact from Jackie Hobbs, a

p Edwin Battensby went from Tokatoka to Gallipoli, one of the first Anzacs relation to Minnie. After all those years, Ms Hobbs had discovered, among family heirlooms, a men’s watch inscribed with the following words: ‘To Edwin Battensby, on his return from Gallipoli from the residents of Okahu’.

In September last year, the watch was returned to the local Battensby family, who had never known of its existence. Now it serves as a reminder of a valiant ancestor who was among the very first Anzacs, 110 years ago. ¢

first to fight overseas

However, the recruits who faced that crucible of battle in the first world war were not the first young Kiwi soldiers to enlist for what they were convinced was a foreign adventure in aid of the British Empire. In 1899, when the founding of New Zealand itself was still in living memory, thousands of Kiwis signed up with enthusiasm to fight in the Anglo-Boer War in southern Africa.

In 1899 Britain mobilised to suppress an independence movement focussed on the Afrikaans-speaking settlers of the Transvaal region. These hardy pioneers had defeated the British in 1881, but now there was a new factor in play. Gold had been found beneath Transvaal. New Zealand premier Richard ‘King Dick’ Seddon was quick to offer support, and such was the enthusiasm for war that the first two contingents of mounted

soldiers who took ship paid for their own uniforms, rifles and horses. This first group numbered 204 men, but by the end of the war in 1902, 6,500 soldiers, 8,000 horses and a large contingent of doctors, nurses, vets and even schoolteachers would make the journey to South Africa.

It was the first time New Zealand troops had fought in a foreign war, and many were not prepared for what this actually meant. The veldt or upland plains of Africa were cold by night and blisteringly hot by day. Rations were few and poor, with soldiers spending most of their field

pay on better food. Patrols lasted from 4am until 5pm, and there was little support via the long, vulnerable supply lines. Soldiers’ uniforms were reduced to rags, and disease was a real threat. In the end, sickness killed more Kiwi troops than enemy fire.

Despite the hardships of war and despite the fact that Māori volunteers were declined from service, the Boer War defined New Zealand’s early military identity. The nation revelled in the reputation of Kiwi troops as tough, resourceful and brave. For the first time, the army had its own haka composed for it by Walter Callaway, and New Zealand soldiers expressed a distinct identity away from the British. Memories of the Boer War would colour how the nation reacted to the events of 1914, and those who served between 1899 and 1902 were forerunners of the Anzac tradition. ¢

p The first contingent of soldiers bound for the Boer War in 1899: these were the first Kiwi troops to deploy in a foreign theatre of battle

LEST WE FORGET

A constant memorial

u by Paul Campbell

‘In Flanders fields the poppies blow, Between the crosses row on row.’ These lines from the pen of a Canadian medical officer, Lieutenant-Colonel John McCrae, in his poem, In Flanders Fields, epitomise the red poppy that forever marks the fallen in battle, and again this April 25 as we celebrate Anzac Day.

Services will be held across the land and in Kaipara from coast to coast from observance at Glinks Gully on the west coast and through towns and villages to Mangawhai in the east.

Many of us will wear the poppy and lay wreaths of the same to remember those who fell in conflict from early last century, as well as saluting those who still serve freedom today.

Back in the first world war of 1914–18, the poppy was grown in the Belgian region of Flanders, where McCrae made them an icon after his poem was published in London.

The reason the poppies grew in battlefield profusion due to conflict as the artillery shells that churned up the soil and maimed and killed soldiers also encouraged the proliferation and growth of the dormant poppy seeds that bloomed on the barren, scarred land and in the cemeteries.

In fact, the poppy so revered in New Zealand has its real origins in the United States after a YMCA canteen worker in New York convinced the American Legion to adopt it as its national memorial flower. The symbol then moved to France where a certain Madame Guérin became the Poppy Lady of France’, and approached veterans’ groups around the world, asking them to adopt artificial poppies which

could be sold to raise funds. One of her supporters, Colonel Alfred Moffatt, suggested the idea to the New Zealand Returned Soldiers Association, the forerunner of today’s RSA in September 1921. The RSA ordered 360,000 silk poppies from Madame Guérin’s French Children’s League. The poppies went on sale on April 24 1922, and raised the equivalent in today’s currency of $1.35 million and remitted money back to alleviate wartime suffering among French children in northern France. The RSA used the balance to assist needy, unemployed returned soldiers and their families which continues today. The association began producing its own

poppies in 1931, with disabled former servicemen in Auckland and Christchurch employed and the Christchurch RSA is still involved in organising the predominantly paper poppies of today.

The red emblem is worn most often around Anzac Day, but also at events, such as other major commemorative events, military funerals, and war graves and cemeteries. Selling poppies is the RSA’s primary means of raising funds for the welfare of returned service personnel and their dependents, including those who served more recently in conflicts in areas like Bosnia, Timor and Afghanistan. In a year, the appeal typically raises more than $1 million. ¢

War stories of various women throughout history have proved their worth to war efforts. Many give credit to the women who took on the jobs of their men, but for some females, their service was a little more dangerous. Take, for example, Josephine Baker, an African American lady of the arts (singer, dancer and actress) who also led a life of espionage as a French Resistance agent during the second world war. Baker started from humble beginnings, living in squalor in St Louis. Her dance talents would take her to Paris, France when she was 19 years old to perform burlesque. Acting and singing were added to her repertoire. She created a successful career as Europe’s bestpaid entertainer.

After rising to fame, Jacques Abtey sought her to be a French Resistance spy. Abtey had hoped her charm and fame would allow her to obtain secrets from the unsuspecting enemy. Her first missions

included attending diplomatic parties at the Japanese and Italian embassies.

The star would put notes on her palms and under her sleeves of anything she had overheard. Abtey warned her of the dangers of how she was writing notes and she adapted her ways to hide in the bathroom and write detailed accounts to clip into her bra. At one point, she wrote information in invisible ink on her sheet music.

As the war continued, her lodgings were a haven for French Resistance and those fleeing the enemy. Her entertaining career was a good cover to travel between countries. After the second world war ceased, she received honours for her war efforts in 1948.

Baker was given the Resistance Medal by the French Committee of National Liberation and a Croix de Guerre by the French military. She was also named a Knight of the Legion of Honour by General Charles de Gaulle. ¢

p Josephine Baker lived a double life during the second world war — a celebrity entertainer and a French Resistance agent

Uncovering stories of honourable service

Ahead of Anzac commemorations, genealogy researchers in Dargaville are offering help for families who want to know more about their relatives’ records of service at war.

Anzac Day often prompts questions from younger family members about the role their elders played in wartime. This year, the Dargaville Genealogy Group will host a free workshop to help fill in some missing pieces of family history on Sunday, April 21.

“We can find a lot out which people may not have otherwise been able to discover. This could include where they served, which regiments and formations they were part of, ships they travelled on, or if they were treated in hospital overseas,” says Dargaville genealogy spokesperson Sue Curtis.

“In addition to helping people discover more about their ancestors’ service in wartime, we are also helping to compile photographs for a local database of soldiers. If you have a picture of

one of your relatives who served, we would appreciate the chance to make a copy.”

It’s not just soldiers who represented New Zealand. Extensive files, many now declassified, chart the contribution of sailors, engineers, nurses and doctors, pilots and strategists as well. Though it’s slightly harder to access information on them, the genealogists can reach out using digital technology to find out about personnel from other allied nations who may have local connections.

The free workshop will take place at Dargaville Museum on April 21, from 12.30pm until 3pm. Bring along the name and birth date of relatives you’d like to know more about, and experienced help will be on hand to find out where they served and which historic events they were part of. ¢

14 Normanby St, Dargaville

Ph 09 439 0007

A/H 027 439 0005

With

Ph: 09 425 8439 service@warkworthtoyota.co.nz sales@warkworthtoyota.co.nz

p An example of a local soldier who served his country, Patrick Diamond fought in the first world war before making a home in Dargaville

Honouring the sacrifices that were made for our freedom.

deepest respect to those who answered the call with bravery

With deepest respect to those who answered the call with bravery.

In remembrance of our fallen

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DARGAVILLE

Dairy Farm Handy to Dargaville

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The farming women of the Kiwi home front

u by Andy Bryenton

When the second world war broke out, 140,000 New Zealand men enlisted to fight, and many of them were the farmers who were needed to fuel the war effort for both the Anzacs and their allies.

It was a conundrum for the government of the time and one that afflicted manufacturing and processing as well. While society in the late 1930s was very divided along gender-role lines, a willing, capable and determined workforce was ready to step into the gaps left by departing servicemen. They were the women who, by 1944, 80 years ago, would number 147,000 strong in the workforce.

“This is your opportunity to back up New Zealand’s gallant fighting men!’ exclaimed a missive by Ford, calling for ‘200 more women and girls for munitions work’. It was not just bullets and bombs the women of New Zealand produced. An

army marches on its stomach, and Kiwi farms needed assistance to feed the entire war effort.

The concept of a Women’s Land Corps (WLC) was discussed in the late 1930s, but opposition to the idea was surprisingly vehement. It would not be until 1942, the darkest days for the Allies, that such a corps came to its final fruition. Prior to this date, there had been volunteerbased local schemes, such as one which formed in Matamata in 1940. There was, perhaps, more of a resistance to the idea of women doing the ‘man’s work’ of farming than there was to employing women in factories.

A total of 2,711 women would sign up to serve on farms during the war years. While the Farmers’ Union initially agitated against the concept, the value of these volunteers was soon to become apparent. Issued a uniform consisting of coveralls, an overcoat, gumboots, leggings, and thick woollen socks, Women’s Land Corps members often surprised their farming hosts with their willingness and grit. The toughest, dirtiest rural jobs didn’t phase them, and opposition turned to respect. At harvest time, the army sent soldiers to help on farms. Astonished officers

noted that while their men, trained and ready to go and fight overseas, were exhausted after an eight-hour day, the women who worked alongside them were expected to put in 12 hours for less pay. At the time, it was seen as a necessity, but the WLC years changed attitudes to women’s place in farming indelibly. By winning the fight to prove themselves and to learn far outside the roles and norms of that earlier era, those women who volunteered made a major contribution to overall victory and changed future attitudes. ¢

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p They were called the ‘land girls’; the volunteers of the Women’s Land Corps helped win victory over the Axis but also achieved a change in attitudes to women’s role in agriculture

Kaipara wins at sustainability

u by Amy Fifita

Adam Cullen and Laura Kateley-Cullen’s Ararua Hills Farm was one of several farms in the district to be awarded at the Northland Ballance Farm Environment Awards.

“We loved the awards evening. The energy and optimism in the room are unique to the Ballance Farm Environmental Awards, and it is great to celebrate our industry and what is possible,” said Laura and Adam.

“It was nice to be recognised by the soil management award, an area of our business we have spent a lot of time adjusting to suit the strengths of our farming environment.

“We recognised when buying Ararua Hills Farm that we were now responsible for an environment, not just a farm on the land. We have shifted away from soil cultivation as a cropping technique. Instead, we moved into cover cropping to help aggregate the soil structure, effectively allowing the soil to function as an ecosystem with minimal chemical inputs.”

Ararua Hills Farm also won the New Zealand Farm Environment Trust Innovation Award. Laura and Adam introduced 11-in-7 milking to provide more time for staff and decrease animal stress. The couple also installed a water filtration system for high-quality water for animals, planted 30 hectares into a transitional forest and produced annual sustainability progress reports.

“We were surprised and grateful. The judges commented that our business was prepared to think of solutions outside common farm practices, which reflect our social, environmental and financial goals.

“By entering the awards, we stepped out of our comfort zone. It was a rewarding experience. The judging process and feedback were a valuable way to reflect on the direction we are taking with our business.”

Other Kaipara winners were Emerald Hills’ Greg and Clare Collins and Brierly Hill’s Philip and Julia Leaf. There was

also a special mention of the Kaipara Moana Remediation programme, which has planted more than 1 million trees in the district.

“It was fantastic to see our neighbours Phillip and Julia Leaf do so well at the awards. We are proud to represent our district and show what is happening.

“Sustainability is important to us because it is important to the environment that we are lucky enough to call our farm. Succession is a value of ours and being able to demonstrate how farming and a diverse environment can work together.”

p Laura Kateley-Cullen and Adam Cullen with their team Joe Gonzaga (left), Bill Cullen (second from right) and Joseph Cambronero (right) Photo: Bryce Zhang, Ideal Graphic and Photography

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tail … Boss an’ Sharlene reddy for footy

“Well, tell yer wot Dog, I got a hole new ‘preciation for the game of rugby after Sharlene took the TV remote offa me and I hada watch wot she decided wen tha sevens was on.”

Gidday readas. I was lissining to Boss wile he was checkin’ troffs like we do after a spot of rein and wonded where he was goin’ with footy, wen he sat ona Big Blue Quod he got atta Dargyville Feel Daze to look down atta homested.

“Yep Dog, Sharlene wantid to watch them Black Ferns playing in Hong Kong. An’ seein’ I watched the blokes I thort fare enough and give her the remote to wotch the ladies have a go.”

Acterly readas, I saw Boss trying to hang on to that TV switcher thing, but he lost eh? His gerfren’ Sharlene usually a winna. But Boss was rite, too, ’cos I was watchin’ those ladies, an’ boy can they play the game. Anyway, Boss an’ me was down atta homested fer smoko by then, an’ Sharlene pored cuppatees. “Ya no Deah,” Boss sed. “Those girls sumtimes betta ter watch then the blokes eh?”

Sharlene smiled, and she had her laptoppy computa on her knee. “Yer right Deah. They rilly stars, and that double heeda with the blokes in Hong Kong bodes well fer wen they hold the Olympics in France. They already Olympic champs.”

She lookt at her screem ona computa and read in her skoolteecher voice: “Michaela Blyde scored a hat-trick three tries and was named player of the match and that Mahina Paul scored two for the Kiwi women 36–7 win over the United States.

“We wanted to come to Hong Kong with the mindset of a peak tournament, so we treated it like it was an Olympic Games,” said Michaela. “Obviously, it’s a good feeling right now. We’re going to put our foot to the pedal even more when we get home — it’s only going to get harder.”

“Well gotta say Deah that them girls got speed an ’gility to bern, an’ I reckin they just as good to wotch and support as any blokes ona park. Well, the Kiwi blokes also come out on top in Honkers, too, so we got a dubble header eh?

“Yep,” sed Sharlene. “It says hear tha’ French gonna be rarin’ for revenge if they meet ona home soil in France.” She read sum more: “We won the men’s 10–7 over France, and it was nil-all at the break.”

“Thas rite,” seda Boss. “That Scott Curry was limpin’ aroud tha paddick as well, but he got a try and so did Cody Vai. Whew, a bit close rilly. Well Deah, we got sum more before the ’lympics ’cos there another round of sevens in Singapore on May 3–5.”

Sharlene then sed: “It might be comin’ up ter winta deah, but ’member that Raza Robertson gonna take the ABs against the Poms for his firs’ test in Dunedin in July, then there plinty of games, ’cos after a second game against England at Orklind’s Edin Park, the boys are off ter play Fiji in ’Merica. They spreadin’ the rugby werd ter the werld, they reckin.”

Well readas, I no wear to find tha Boss an’ Sharlene wen footy is on this winta. Must admit, I kinda lookin’ forward to it, too. Got their heater to curl up, wile they cheerin’ things on eh?

Happy watchin’.

See ya — Billy ¢

April

Discover more about your Military Ancestors (NZ, Aus and UK) — 21st April, 10am to 3pm. Open Day — Dargaville Museum Research Rooms, Harding Park. If you have a photo, bring it along to add to our Military Collection and the Onwards series of books. For more info contact Sue Curtis 021 608 606.

Free Property Information Seminar — 21st April at 1pm, “The Eight Magical Secrets to Creating Your Own Successful Air BnB”. RSVP email attendee names & session #6 to kathy@fnkaipara.co.nz.

Inland Revenue Clinic, Heartland Services –Dargaville — 24th April. Appointments to discuss any IRD enquiries in person at Whanau Focus Centre, 61 Victoria St, Dargaville. Bookings essential by calling 09 439 7009.

Fireco Kai Iwi Lakes Triathlon — 27 April. Triathlon (Swim+Bike+Run): Try a Tri: 100m+10K+2K. Short: 350m+10K+3.5K. Long: 700m (or 1500m kayak) + 20K + 8.5K. Kids Tri (Swim+Bike+Run): 4–6 yrs: 50m+2K+500m. 6–10 yrs: 100m+4K+1.5K. 11–15 yrs: 150m+8K+1.5K. For more info www. runningcalendar.co.nz/event/kai-iwi-lakes-triathlon.

May

Pae Manawa – Maori Land Court – Heartland Services — 6 May, free to discuss any enquiries regarding your land, in person at Whanau Focus Centre, 61 Victoria Street, Dargaville. Bookings essential on 09 439 7009 or 021 245 3765.

Free Property Information Seminar — 15th May at 5pm. “What To Look For (& What to Avoid) when Buying a Property to Flip”. RSVP email attendee names & session #7 to kathy@fnkaipara.co.nz.

155 Community Law – Heartland Services — 15 May, free help with family, employment, criminal, tenancy and consumer law, neighbourly disputes, debts or harassment and bullying at Whanau Focus Centre, 61 Victoria Street, Dargaville. Walk in only 10–3pm. Any enquiries 09 439 7009 or 021 245 3765.

Free Property Information Seminar — 21 May at 5pm, “The Do-Up Dos & Don’ts To Attract Great Tenants”. RSVP email attendee names & session #8 to kathy@fnkaipara.co.nz.

Inland Revenue Clinic – Heartland Services — 30 May, free to discuss any IRD enquiries in person at Whanau Focus Centre, 61 Victoria Street, Dargaville. Bookings essential on 09 439 7009 or 021 245 3765.

Markets

Kaihu Hall Market — 3rd Saturday each month 10am–noon. Phone Robin 09 439 4878.

Maungaturoto Night Market — 1st Saturday of every month, 4–7pm, at The Epicentre, 98 Hurndall Street. 021 0234 3632 kierenwilson22@gmail.com or Facebook.

Monthly Market — 1st Saturday of each month, 8am–noon at the Kaipara Community Centre, Hokianga Road (opposite the Town Hall).

Paparoa Artisan Market — now quarterly 10am–2pm Paparoa Memorial Hall, next market is Sunday 2nd June.

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, 8am–12pm 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 AA meetings held at The 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.

Baylys & Beyond Gardeners — All welcome, 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.

Citizens Advice Bureau — Dargaville & districts have moved to Parenga Street as at 24th October 2023 (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

Dargaville Bowling Club Tuesday Bowls — Names by 9.30am, start 10am, finish 2.30pm. Contact Ray King 09 439 5509.

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 Floral Art Club — Meets on the 3rd Wednesday of the month at 1pm at The Lighthouse Church, Cnr Normanby & Parore Sts, Dargaville. Enquiries to Dawn Donald 09 439 5413.

Dargaville Friendship Club for seniors — meets 2nd Tuesday of month at 10am at the Kiosk, Memorial Park, Logan Street. For info phone Brian 09 439 5959.

Dargaville Tabletop Wargames and RPGs – the Warrior’s Lodge — Interested in games like Dungeons & Dragons, Warhammer, or other strategy games with models? Thursdays 6.30pm, upstairs, Hokianga Road above the cinema. Learn to 3D print, paint, play and design.

Dargaville Girls Brigade — For girls 5–15 years. Thursdays after school — 3.30–5pm held at The Lighthouse Church. Contact Pauline Taylor 021 263 7446 or 09 439 7505.

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 Menz Shed — is open Tuesday and Thursday each week from 10am to 3pm and Saturday mornings from 10am to noon. New members are welcome. For more info phone Paul 027 459 3098 or Brian 09 439 6175.

Dargaville Museum — Open every day except Christmas Day and Anzac morning. Hours 9am–4pm April to October, 9am–5pm October to April. Volunteers, visitor hosts and members welcome. Phone 09 439 7555.

Dargaville Riverside Taha Awa Garden Trust — is inviting people interested in joining 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 Women’s Group — If you would like to socialise and share & care, feel welcome to come along and join our group of Ladies. We meet on the 3rd Tuesday of the month at 10am for morning tea (& maybe, a guest speaker) at The Methodist Church, Cnr Awakino & Normanby Roads, Dargaville. For further information contact Michelle, 09 439 2930.

Housie — Every third Monday of the month at 1.30pm, Dargaville Bowling Club. All are welcome. Starts, Monday 19th February.

Hikuwai O Kaipara Waka Ama Club — Meet at the NW Boating Club 5pm Mondays and Thursdays from 5pm for Awa training.

Justices of the Peace — available every Thursday from 12–1pm at the Whanau Focus offices, 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 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. If you are riding the Kauri Coast Mountain Bike Park or you want to join the Kaipara Cycling Club go to join.hivepass. co.nz or email kaiparacycling@gmail.com.

Kaipara Grey Power — third Friday of each month February to November. Our meetings are open to all.

Contacts 09 439 7801 or 09 439 4452.

Kaipara Heritage Machinery Club — Open and operating Wednesday and Saturday. New members and volunteers welcome. Something to interest both men and women, come and get involved. Phone 021 106 3635 or 09 439 4614.

Kumarani Creative Centre – Creative Dance! — 5pm Thursdays, 15 Onslow Street. For all ages and abilities, fun and inclusive. Koha.

Kumarani Productions — Tuesdays Circus Kids 5–10 years at 3.45pm–4.45pm, Youth Circus 10–18 years at 5pm–6.30pm and Dargaville Fire and Circus Jam 6.30pm–8pm. 15 Onslow St. Through school terms only. Koha.

Line dancing group for beginners — every Monday night 5.30pm–7.30pm at Dargaville Dalmation Hall. Contact Donna 021 729 955.

Lions Club of Ruawai — Meets 3rd Thursday of the month (social night) and 1st Thursday of the month (business meeting). For more info contact Dorothy on 09 439 2557.

Lions Dargaville — Meeting 2nd Wednesday of the month in Lions Den, Hokianga Road. Contact John for more information 09 439 5937.

Maungaturoto AA Meeting — Mondays 7pm at the Holy Trinity Church, 134 Hurndall St East, Maungaturoto. Contact Carolyn 021 828 055.

Mt Wesley Angels — Meets 2nd Sunday of the month at Old Mt Wesley Cemetery to preserve, record and care for this historic cemetery. Wear suitable footwear, bring water, gardening gloves and a friend.

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 the Research Rooms, Dargaville Museum, 4th Sunday of each month, 12.30–2pm. Phone Sue 021 608 606.

Northern Wairoa Indoor Bowls Assn — Starts at 7pm Mondays at Anglican Church Hall, Tuesdays at Ruawai-Tokatoka Hall, Wednesdays at Dalmatian Hall. For more info 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 President Margaret Pinny 09 439 4560.

Paparoa Box Fit — $10. Stretching/cardio/boxing. Paparoa Memorial Hall, every Wednesday 6–7pm. Paparoa Dance to Music — $5. Stretching/balance/ resistance bands/Zumba, Paparoa Memorial Hall, every Tuesday 10.30–11.30am.

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, beginners welcome, all equipment supplied at Sportsville. Judy 09 439 7920.

Pono Lodge Yoga — Tuesday 9.30am. Hatha Yoga with Anisha. Class lasts approx 1 hour. Mats, bolsters and blocks available, $20. Contact Anisha 021 301 860 or see our Facebook page.

Recovery Support Group — Mondays 6.30pm– 9pm. 1/12 Kapia Street, Dargaville. Chrissy 09 601 4153 or 021 564 618.

Rotary Club of Dargaville — meet weekly at 11.30–1pm at the Lions Centre in Hokianga Road. New members always welcome, men and women. If you want to join a Service Club with nearly 85 years to Dargaville. Phone Brian 09 439 6175.

RSA Women’s Section — Social meeting held at the Clubrooms, 4th Monday of the month with guest speakers and afternoon tea. Contact President Noeline Wright 027 733 7396.

Ruawai Bowling Club — new members welcome at our friendly club in the heart of Ruawai. For info call Alison 027 243 5454.

Ruawai Gardening Club — Meetings or other activities held on 3rd Thursday of every month, Feb to Nov at the Ruawai Bowling Club, 10am start. New members welcome. Phone Merele 09 439 2335.

Stepping Out Leisure Marching Team — Tuesday 4pm–5pm at the Yugoslav Hall, 20 Normanby St. Contact Sharon 027 439 5634 or 09 439 5634 for more details.

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. Small class groups. 9am–10am, $10 per session. If you’re 50+ and want to improve your movement as you age, this is the class for you. With some commitment you can gain strength as you condition your body for aging. Call Tony 022 311 8447.

Te Kopuru Community Library — access through St Peters Hall. Open Tue 2.45pm–4pm, Wed 10am–noon and Sunday 3pm–4pm. Books for all ages, and jigsaw puzzles, DVDs, CDs and magazines available. All welcome.

Te Kopuru Sewing & Craft Group — meets at Coronation Hall, Norton Street, Te Kopuru every Saturday from 9am-Noon. Gold coin koha for the hall. Tea & coffee provided. Contact Grace on 021 0858 2455.

Tinopai Craft Group — If you are crafty, or just feel like catching up with people in the neighbourhood, come and join us on Mondays from 10.30–1pm at the Tinopai Community Hall. For information phone Linda 09 280 9988.

Wednesday Crafts — Every Wednesday 10am. Morning tea and lunch will be served. Variety of crafts. The Kiosk at Memorial Park. All welcome. $10 per session. Contact Judy 027 316 3940.

PUZZLE TIME

Sudoku

Fill the grid so that every column, every row and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1 to 9.

ACROSS: 1 Atlas, 4 Fleeting, 9 Urgent, 14 Arena, 15 Fly in the ointment, 17 Ledge, 18 Pet, 19 Arrears, 20 Wearisome, 21 Depots, 24 Clientele, 25 Dodged, 26 Soothe, 29 Vegetables, 31 Ire, 32 Filled, 33 Arid, 35 All, 37 Also, 39 Inspected, 40 Cormorant, 41 Shore, 42 Distinct, 47 Weakness, 51 Event, 55 Clamorous, 56 Sunbonnet, 58 Gnaw, 59 Sue, 60 Sour, 61 Deluge, 62 Tea, 63 Antarctica, 66 Plates, 67 Treble, 69 Cultivate, 72 Farmer, 73 Preparing, 75 Virtues, 77 Nil, 80 Inept, 81 Twentieth century, 82 Onion, 83 Glared, 84 Tidiness, 85 Pride.

DOWN: 2 Tolerance, 3 Aside, 5 Lies, 6 Evil eye, 7 Intermediate, 8 Guess, 9 Untamed, 10 Gale, 11 Nodded, 12 Seeps, 13 Captive, 14 Aerosol, 16 Termination, 22 Ankles, 23 Replace, 24 Cheroot, 25 Dreads, 27 Terrace, 28 Degree, 30 Seek, 32 Floor, 34 Dates, 36 Hock, 38 Lei, 42 Ducks, 43 Spatula, 44 Idol, 45 Chosen, 46 Verse, 48 Alternative, 49 Nightie, 50 Sea, 51 Estuary, 52 Tsetse, 53 Incarcerated, 54 Coma, 57 Nitwit, 64 Conferred, 65 Refrain, 66 Phantom, 68 Berated, 70 Lantern, 71 Reveal, 72 Fluid,

CHURCH

Legacy/Man Up, Wednesdays from 6.30pm–8.30pm. Contact 021 136 5253 or tekorowai.ihu@gmail.com. Celebrate Recovery, Thursdays 6pm–8.30pm. Contact Gwen on 021 103 9065. FENCING

FENCING, ALL types of fencing, pool, stockyards, post & rail, boundary plus... call Jeff 027 476 5458. GARAGE SALE GARAGE SALE — Saturday 20 April. Furniture, household goods, clothing, children’s toys. 378 Notorious West Road, Dargaville. 9am–12pm. GRAZING

GRAZING AVAILABLE R1 to R2 dairy heifers, from 1st May long term, 20+ years experience with great results. Phone 021 439 250.

PERSONAL

SINGLE? OVER 40? Meet other interesting, intelligent, genuine people just like yourself. Dine out ‘Dinner for Six’. Phone 021 639 552.

PROPERTY MAINTENANCE

1 STOP Window & Door Repairs — Seals, Latches, Stays, Wheels, Hinges, Locks, Glass & Glazing. Phone 027 275 0918 or 09 439 6458

ADMINISTRATOR

Te Roroa Social Development Company provides support for whānau living in the rohe of Te Roroa. You will be based at our office in Tunatahi (Dargaville).

• You are a proven administrator with experience in finance, front desk and support

• Proven experience in Microsoft Office 365

• You have high level communication skills

• Ability to work in a culturally safe and respectful manner

• Experienced in Marae, te reo and tikanga Māori is an advantage

• You may lead social media, current, and emerging technologies

Police vetting will be conducted and A full NZ Drivers Licence is an advantage. Please send a cover letter and curriculum vitae or a video clip instead of a cover letter, to Roger Herangi, Social Development, c/- Te Roroa, 42 Hokianga Road, Dargaville OR Email: social.opsmanager@teroroa.iwi.nz or call 021 243 1788.

Closing date: 19 April 2024

12MM UTILITY Cladding Ungrooved

ACOUSTIC MUSIC Blackboard Concert — First Thursday of the month — 7–9.30pm, next is the 2 May 2024, 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.

AGM COMBINED CHURCHES FOODBANK. Monday 29 April, 4pm at Methodist Church Complex, 107 Normanby Street, Dargaville. Agenda includes changes to Constitution.

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.

EMPLOYMENT CLINIC at Citizens Advice Bureau. Are you experiencing problems at work and considering taking action? For free, confidential advice from an experienced employment advocate call 439 6100 or email dargaville@cab.org.nz to make an appointment. Next clinic Friday 19 April.

KAIPARA GREY POWER are pleased to have Karla Scott Westpac Bank’s Dargaville and Kaikohe Branch Manager at our next Public Meeting on Friday 19th April. Karla’s subject is “Coping with Scams”. Venue Dargaville Methodist Church Complex. Format starts at 1pm Stewart Quirk our President, then around 1.15pm Karla. A mix and mingle and cuppa follows. All welcome.

NORTHERN WAIROA Boating Club Sunday roast $25 and A La Carte Menu. Bookings essential, phone 09 439 8098 after 5pm Wednesday–Friday or check availability on Sundays after 5pm.

RUAWAI BOWLING CLUB — caterer wanted for Friday night dinners at our Club. You will have relevant qualifications and be able to provide a selection of meals at reasonable prices. For more info call Alison

NorthernRescue Helicopter isNorthland’s dedicatedairambulance serviceandwerely onthegenerosityand supportofNorthlanders tohelpussavelives.

Howcanyouhelp? Visitnest.org.nz/donate

IfyouwouldliketosupportNorthernRescue, contactusduringofficehourson 0800273728(08002RESCUE)or emailinfo@nest.org.nz

Ordonatedirectlyto: TheNorthlandEmergencyServicesTrust ASBBank:123101006737100

and Friday 10th May.

You can book your appointments online at www.schoolinterviews.co.nz/code/xgbc2

Attend your interview and be in with a chance to win a $100 gift card.

Alternatively, you may contact the school office 09 439 7229, office@darghigh.school.nz

Please be aware DHS will be closed for instruction on Thursday 9th and Friday 10th May in order for these interviews to take place. We look forward to seeing you!

DEATH NOTICES

Frances “Elaine” Dodd

Age 83, of Parkville, Maryland, USA

Passed away on Friday, March 29, 2024. Beloved wife of the late Rodney J. Dodd; devoted mother of Michael Dodd (Barbara), and Mark Dodd (Cheryl); loving grandmother of Morgan and Brooke and great grandmother of Axl; beloved daughter of the late Bonnie Bomke (Starcher); dear sister of Linda Chesla. Also survived by several nieces, nephews, and extended family.

Elaine is a graduate of North Harford High School, and from Villa Julie (Stephenson University), with a bachelor’s degree in paralegal studies.

Some of her various occupations included dairy farmer, cattle herder, teacher’s assistant, life insurance broker, bookkeeper, maintenance contact manager, and Paralegal. She worked with many organizations like 4H, multiple Garden clubs, the Bay-Wise program and her many hobbies included gardening, knitting, being an artist, watercolour painting, and a skilled seamstress. Additional accomplishments include becoming a Master Gardner and her role as a certified Bay-Wise educator.

Elaine was an avid world traveller and loved to visit extended family and friends in England, New Zealand, and beyond.

A Celebration of Life for Elaine will be held at Oak Crest, USA on June 1, 2024.

A cremation has taken place with her ashes destined for a private interment at the New Mount Wesley Cemetery in Dargaville, later this year.

Dargaville Merchants Limited of Dargaville, has made application to the Kaipara District Licensing Committee for the renewal of an off-licence in respect of the premises situated at 70 Victoria Street, Dargaville known as Bottle O Dargaville

The general nature of the business conducted under the licence is bottle store

The days on which and the hours during which alcohol is sold under the licence are: Monday to Sunday 10am to 10pm.

The application may be inspected during ordinary office hours at the Kaipara District Licensing Committee at 32 Hokianga Road, Dargaville or Unit 13, 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.