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Sport — better together
Supporting the Fireco Northland Triathlon at Kai Iwi Lakes on April 18 2026, ReSport will be returning to Kaipara to encourage sport …
Council says no to LGNZ
The Kaipara District Council has decided not to rejoin Local Government New Zealand, citing a cost-to-benefits …
Collaboration for
conservation
Dargaville will be having its first Earth Day Festival on Monday, April 15 from 10am–2pm at the Te Awa …
Saltwater and surf success
New legal move in landfill fight
u by Paul Campbell
A new court initiative questioning proper iwi consultation has sparked new debate over the process followed in an Environment Court decision to approve, with conditions, the Dome Valley landfill.
Puatahi Marae, which sits in the Hōteo River Kaipara Harbour catchment of the Wayby Valley dump site, filed an application on March 9 seeking the Māori Land Court to exercise its supervisory jurisdiction in relation to a series of matters.
“These have affected Puatahi Marae because of its continued opposition to, and involvement in, Fight-the-Tip objections to the proposed landfill in the Environment Court last year,” said Matua Peter Symons. “The application also raises the validity of the decision.
“It was made without prior engagement with the three objecting marae trusts and registered whānau members, and about how those changed positions were
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communicated externally — including to the Environment Court.”
The new initiative is based on the decision by the Ngāti Whātua postsettlement governance entity, NMWK, to reverse its opposition to the dump plan. Instead it has reversed its support without full iwi consultation.
A hui at Puatahi Marae brought together representatives from several Ngāti Whātua marae, Tinopai Resource Management, Fight the Tip, local government, alongside MP Huhana Lyndon and concerned residents.
“Puatahi Marae states that it cannot rely on the post-settlement governance entity that undermines its ability to uphold kaitiakitanga, maintain tikanga authority,
and participate meaningfully in decisions affecting all members,” said Mr Symons. “The opportunity for the five Ngāti Whātua o Kaipara marae to deliberate collectively was removed by several NMWK trustees, who also personally objected, and now benefit from dual positions created by them.”
The Land Court application continues to oppose the normalisation of consent conditions that would destroy 12 kilometres of waterways feeding the Hōteo River and Kaipara Harbour. The dump is still subject to another court case, with Forest and Bird having leave to go to the Court of Appeal citing legal river protections to oppose the Environment Court’s decision. ¢
p The Kauri Coast surfcasting competition saw lines in the water off the Ripirō coast last week, as more than 300 anglers battled for top prizes. Wild weather earlier in the week calmed for the Saturday fishing face-off, and when weigh-in time rolled around it was all smiles after a day of smooth seas and sunshine.
Donations from this competition will soon flow through to local primary schools — a yearly tradition of community support.
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An article in our rural section last week erroneously named Canterbury company Synlait as the major international dairy company that entered into a deal with Fonterra to purchase several iconic New Zealand dairy brands. This was an unintentional mistake; Synlait is an independent Canterbury-based dairy processor who are not part of this arrangement. The French company in question is Lactalis. Synlait has not now, or ever, been
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Important Correction on Lactalis and Fonterra agreement Community splashes Floods
questioned regarding issues relating to the Fonterra-Lactalis business arrangement, and we apologise for the mistake unreservedly. In every instance in the article regarding the FonterraLactalis arrangement, reference to Synlait was made in error and we would have it known that this company is of unquestioned independence, and is an unrelated third party regarding the controversy and discussion which have accompanied the Lactalis deal.
u by Amy Fifita
Sport — better together Anglers win accolades in the west
Supporting the Fireco Northland Triathlon at Kai Iwi Lakes on April 18 2026, ReSport will be returning to Kaipara to encourage sport in the region.
“ReSport will have a core team of staff and volunteers on-site, supporting our colleagues and representing our brand,” said ReSport founder Sharon Gibson.
“We’ll be sharing information about how whānau can access quality sports gear and apparel. We will also have our mobile pātaka ready to collect clean new, or gently used gear from anyone entering or involved in the event.”
With a focus on community, the event brings an opportunity to back organisations they have worked with before.
“This event brings together partners who have been integral to our journey. The entire CDL Group has contributed to ReSport in a phenomenal way, with one of our co- founders, JP Dignon, leading that support.
“Sport Northland was our first formal partnership, and being chosen as their charity of choice reflects our shared mission to reduce barriers to participation. At ReSport, we believe we’re better together, so supporting this event is a natural extension of that collective purpose.”
Already showing partnership with the local community, the organisation attended the recent Art Beat in Dargaville.
“Our community participation was hugely successful at Art Beat. We arrived with over 600 units and moved all but 10 in under four hours. Sport is a right, not a luxury — no one should be left on the sidelines.”
For more information, visit resport. co.nz or to register for the triathlon, visit runningcalendar.co.nz/event/ northland-triathlon. ¢
u by Andy Bryenton
The Kauri Coast surfcasting competition attracted more than 320 keen fishers last week, and some big catches secured victory in this exciting clash of anglers.
The kahawai section carried major prize money thanks to a big list of sponsors. Levi Campbell landed a 2.4kg specimen to take home the gold, while Gibbie Gibson’s 2.1kg example was a lock for the silver. TK Wihongi earned a place on the podium for third place with a 2.07kg catch, and there were some runner-up kahawai hooked by Kelvin Bristow, Matt Hewetson and Eben Nesbit respectively.
In the snapper category, Gavin Parlour topped the table with a 3.5kg fish, narrowly beating the 3.4kg weight of TK Wihongi’s catch; one which saw him place in two separate sections this year. Dobby Clark rounded out the snapper winners with a third-place 3.1kg specimen.
Trevally were also in the action, and Louis Johnston hooked a 1.8kg fish to win this category, ahead of Kaine Tito’s 1.7kg example and a big 1.6kg trevally reeled in by Matthew Sanderson. There was one outright winner in the junior class, with a young angler named Hugo reigning supreme with a 1.5kg snapper hauled in from past the breakers. Torrential rains in the days before the
competition had caused some trepidation about stormy seas, but when Saturday March 28 dawned calm and clear, a large number of anglers hit the beach and bought tickets to enter then and there, say event organisers.
A great day was had by all, and next week we’ll catch up with even more winners; the local schools which benefit from the generosity of the Kauri Coast surfcasters every year. ¢
p The ReSport team is returning to the Kaipara to support the Fireco Kai Iwi Lakes Triathlon
Cautious win in inflationary battle
u by Andy Bryenton
As inflationary pressure bites and major changes to the nature and scope of local government cause costs to expand across New Zealand, the Kaipara District Council has reported a minor victory in curbing rates rises.
The Long Term Plan for this year contained provision for rates to grow by 8.3 per cent. As councils elsewhere struggle to keep their own rate increases in the low double digits, a line-by-line budget review and intensive fiscal work by council staff have trimmed the increase back to 7.9 per cent. Roading is the core focus of the year’s expenditure.
“One of the biggest issues raised with the council is the condition of our roads. Our community has been absolutely clear that dependable roading is a priority, and that is a strong area of focus for our council,” said mayor Jonathan Larsen. “At the same time, we’ve taken a hard look at every part of the budget to make sure we’re keeping rates increases as low as we reasonably can.”
Two standout roading and transport projects highlight different ends of the spectrum for the council; $1.9 million has been invested in traction sealing for some of the district’s most difficult metal roads. The New
Zealand Transport Agency will top this up to $5 million, and these sections will receive a special new seal, which allows for safer driving and sturdier road surfaces.
Conversely, the council has also agreed to put $2 million toward completing the Kaihū Valley Trail, a cycleway that, when finished, promises to bring tourism, jobs and revenue into the district, as proven by the success of other Kiwi great rides. Once again, KDC revenue could be overtopped by $7 million in central government investment here, with a trust application pending.
Last year, rates rises across New Zealand hit as high as 16.5 per cent for Clutha and 15 per cent for Hamilton.
The KDC’s proposed 7.9 per cent increase this year would still be outside of the coalition government’s proposed cap of four per cent, leading some to question how councils could still serve their communities with such straitened budgets. ¢
Why Succession and Progression Planning Matters for all Rural Businesses
- and how YHPJ are leading the way
At YHPJ we are more than just accountants, we are trusted advisors to the Northland rural business community. We understand that your operation isn’t just a livelihood — it’s a lifetime of hard work, family history, and community connection. Farms and rural enterprises are often built over generations, which makes
A kauri holiday adventure
u by Paul Campbell
The Kauri Museum is still celebrating Easter and also the April school holidays with a special twist on the famous treasure hunt for children, with parents and escorts welcome, too.
With the Easter egg activity over for this year, there’s an invite to come to the museum and a holiday adventure.
“Our museum is all undercover, is loads of fun and full of discovery and knowledge for all age groups,” says general manager Amanda Bennett. “We also own and operate the Gum Diggers Cafe just across the road, and these holidays we are offering special corn or mussel fritters, appetiser platters, hot cross buns and delicious Easter cupcakes.
“For an outdoor adventure we recommend a visit to the Kauri Bushman’s walk managed by the Department of Conservation in Sterling Road, just five minutes up the road from the museum. This 10-minute bush boardwalk is full of young kauri around 100–200 years old.”
fascinating history of the kauri as well as the pioneer years of New Zealand.
The Kauri Museum is offering a 10% discount from April to October outside the summer tourist season. Avoid the summer tourist season and explore the
succession and progression planning one of the most important, and most challenging, decisions an owner will face.
At YHPJ we have been on our own succession and progression planning journeypracticing what we preach! We are delighted to announce the appointment of Brayden Nichols as the newest YHPJ director, based in our Dargaville office. Brayden has been with YHPJ for more than 12 years and was born and raised on a Northland sheep and beef farm. Brayden has built a great reputation in Northland for understanding rural businesses and supporting clients through all stages of the business lifecycle. Trevor and Brayden will continue to work together in supporting clients of YHPJ.
Having walked the path himself (albeit as advisor rather than farmer), Brayden will tell
“We offer thousands of metres of displays, including a fabulous kauri gum room, an early boarding house, sawmill machinery and antiques just to name a few of myriad attractions that will provide family fascination.” ¢
you that good succession planning also creates opportunities. It allows the next generation time to learn, develop skills, and gradually take on responsibility. This transition period can strengthen the business, improve long-term profitability, and give confidence to banks, suppliers, staff, and family members.
If you are looking for a trusted advisor, look no further - pop into our Whangarei or Dargaville office for a chat or contact Brayden@yhpj.co.nz for a complimentary initial meeting.
Trevor Osbaldiston
Brayden Nichols
p The Sterling bush walk beckons
Ruawai gains flood protection Council says no to LGNZ
u by Andy Bryenton
In a coincidence of governance and wild weather, the Kaipara District Council approved plans to build a flood protection gate to bolster Ruawai tidal defences, just one day before a deluge hammered Northland.
The plan to build a floodgate on Canal K, part of the series of canals and stopbanks protecting Ruawai from the sea, has been designed to stop floodwaters from moving upstream and inundating the flat farmlands around the town. A similar gate protecting Canal G has recently been successfully built.
The cost of getting the project shovel ready can be met by money already saved up by the Raupō Drainage Committee, and their recommendation to press ahead with the floodgate was voted in the affirmative at their February meeting.
“This is the sort of real work I support, in terms of flood mitigation and managing a wonderful scheme,” said councillor Jepson. “Obviously, everyone is thinking about how to do this in a costeffective manner.
“In the last triennium I visited the Canal G floodgate and was very impressed with how that project was run. The experiences learned, the materials already on hand; it speaks well for success.”
With the approval of the KDC, the project will be included in the next Long Term Plan formulated by the council,
set to begin in 2027. It was indicated at the council meeting in late March that the project would be 60 per cent funded by external sources such as the central government, and 40 per cent by the targeted rates raised by the Raupō Drainage District.
Canal K sits at the northern end of the protected area, just past Tokatoka, and its construction will prevent the need to build inland stopbanks higher. ¢
u by Andy Bryenton
The Kaipara District Council has decided not to rejoin Local Government New Zealand, citing a cost-to-benefits analysis of the group’s proposal.
In early March elected members of the Kaipara District Council heard from Local Government New Zealand (LGNZ) representatives Scott Necklen and Dan Gordon, mayor of the Waimakariri District and vice president of LGNZ.
The presentation focussed on the advantages of returning the KDC to membership of the multi-council advocacy organisation, citing the fact that LGNZ saves council money by delivering services at scale. They emphasised the advantage of a united voice at a time when the central government is actively reshaping the role of local democracy.
“It’s noteworthy that councils not aligned with LGNZ actually make up a majority of ratepayers in this country,” said councillor Lambeth. “When we have a look at our performance over our last triennium, and have to justify $53,000 to become a member, I can’t justify that at all.”
“I struggled, during the presentation, to see what the benefits were and what
the value was, and how to measure that,” said councillor Tane.
“I tried to think of any disadvantages we had during the previous triennium by not being part of this, and could not think of any,” said councillor Jepson.
“As a small council, we are also in a nimble position to make our own decisions. My impression of LGNZ is that they are often captured by interests which are not representative of rural-based councils such as we are.”
“I think our ratepayers would rather see the money spent on tangible things,” said councillor Rogers, a sentiment echoed by councillor Williams.
The vote to remain independent and not rejoin LGNZ was carried by a majority vote, meaning that the KDC will not rejoin the organisation for the new triennium. ¢
p Ruawai will have new floodgates to both the north and south in the future, with major works approved for inclusion in the next KDC Long Term Plan
p Councillors leaned toward fiscal pragmatism rather than ideological unity as the vote to rejoin LGNZ was declined
Dragonslayers invited
u by Andy Bryenton
Dungeons & Dragons, the world’s most popular adventure game, is for everyone, and Dargaville’s bold adventurers are offering a chance to get involved.
If you’re seeking a fun and engaging social hobby combining storytelling, puzzles and mysteries, a bit of theatre and a lot of laughs, then joining a party of D&D heroes is the perfect excuse to get off the couch and into a new hobby.
“We have several games running right now, but there’s always room for more people to join in,” says Jamie Gray, who hosts bi-weekly adventures in Dargaville’s custom-built D&D space, of his own design.
The room is decked out with medieval weapons and shields, fantastic artwork and a big table where players team up to face fictional perils and monsters. A massive surge in popularity for the game has come alongside the popularity of sword-and-sorcery shows and movies, video games and pop culture.
There are two ways to get involved, and make use of the dedicated games space, terrain, 3D printing facilities and support
of the Dargaville location, part of the Warriors Lodge Games Club. You could take up the mantle of an adventurer and embark on an epic quest alongside other like-minded players, watching your custom character level up and become a legend.
You could be a veteran of roleplaying games already, who wants to host a game as games master, with the full support of the club to make it easier. Either way, you’re invited to a muster of heroes on Thursday, April 23, at 6.30pm, upstairs above the cinema on Hokianga Road. To learn more, register your interest, and find a fun new hobby for winter. ¢
LETTER TO THE EDITOR
Plan B for town hall
I’m told it would cost $4–12 million to build the new Dargaville Town Hall — that’s unaffordable.
I have a plan B:
1. Raise $1 million in public donations before June.
2. Bowl the annex in June as planned — save the hall.
3. Open all the doors and windows, and have volunteers come in for a day to clean the hall with bleach solution.
4. Replace any rotten wood with tanalised wood and rotten window
frames with aluminium joinery, and patch the roof. Install vents near the floor and ceiling, so the hall is self-ventilating 24/7. Perhaps local contractors can do this at cost.
5. If it’s over $1 million, perhaps the Kaipara District Council could provide temporary finance.
6. Get the hall usable and run fundraising events to pay back the KDC, cover insurance, electricity, ongoing maintenance and so on.
Lance Bullock
Tournament victors
p The Dargaville Bridge Club held the first of three annual mini tournaments last week, and Margaret and Neil Hearn were victorious with first prize overall. This event was named the Moya and Bill Vodanovich Mini Tournament, named in honour of two long-standing members of the club.
Fifty years — the West way Collaboration for conservation
u by Amy Fifita
The Hobson Sheep Dog Trial Club has said farewell to its longstanding secretary, Joy West, who is retiring after more than five decades of serving her local club.
“In an age where volunteerism seems to have become less common, Joy West shows us how it’s done. While she says there are probably other volunteers doing many roles, who may have done more than she has, it’s our turn to celebrate one of Northland’s longest-standing and hardest-working secretaries,” said spokesperson Fiona Hastie.
Involved from a young age, Joy began her dog trialling journey in the 1950s, alongside her father and uncles. Her connection with the sport was bolstered again when she married dog triallist Malcolm West in 1963.
“In 1980, the North Island Championships were held at Ōhaewai, where Joy, alongside other long-standing Northland dog trial volunteers Lynette Finlayson and Deb Hastie, was being educated by Northland icon Rex Ries, to run at a high standard.”
The Hobson secretary since 1982, Joy went on to also become the Sheep Dog Trial Association Northland Centre secretary. Acknowledging her lifelong contribution to the sport, Joy was made
a Northland Centre life member in the 1990s.
“She served an outstanding 24 years as centre secretary, as Joy put it, working alongside three wonderful presidents, Ellis Child, Tony Hargreaves and Merv Cameron.”
Retiring on a high, Joy stepped down as secretary at the centre championships in mid-March. Always a family affair since her dog trial beginnings, Joy also supported her late husband Malcolm when he judged at New Zealand’s highest level. ¢
u by Amy Fifita
Dargaville will be having its first Earth Day Festival on Wednesday, April 15 from 10am–2pm at the Te Awa Riverside Gardens.
The event stemmed from an idea formed from a conversation between Sustainable Kaipara director Stephanie Gibson and Earth Action Trust coordinator Agnes Granada. They are running it in collaboration with the Dargaville Community Development Board and Circus Kumarani.
“With the international Earth Day and Aotearoa Conservation Week coming up, we thought it was a good opportunity to bring people together to encourage them to protect the earth,” said community lead Stephanie.
Already involved in the community running workshops and engaging with schools, Stephanie says the festival is a fresh initiative to educate and involve locals in conservation. With stalls, children’s activities, a litter pick-up, a crop swap and more.
“The litter pick-up is from 8.30am, but we would love more people to volunteer for the litter pick-up, and we’d love to have more stalls. I encourage people
to environmentally turn up, so walking, biking or carpooling is a great way to get there.”
Earth Action Trust’s Agnes Granada has run litter pick-ups in the past and is looking forward to bringing it to Dargaville.
“We are going to raise awareness about the growing environmental problems and encourage our community to create a circular economy. The zero-waste vision is for nothing to go to the landfill and for it to circulate through recycling, reusing and repurposing.”
To volunteer for the litter pick-up, email kiaora@sustainablekaipara.org.nz ¢
p Joy West was farewelled by the region’s community, including Northland Sheep Dog Trial Association president Shaun Haynes
p Earth Action Trust coordinator Agnes Granada and Sustainable Kaipara director Stephanie Gibson are looking forward to bringing the community together in the name of conservation
Will be in the Kaipara District Tuesday 21st April
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The Last Thing You Want To Talk About
Discussions on mortality
u by Andy Bryenton
The end of life is often a hard topic to face and a difficult one to discuss, but it’s also a very important issue to have a frank and open conversation about so that our wishes are known.
Fear of the unknown, cultural conventions and strong emotions can understandably get in the way of having a talk to loved ones about the last inevitability in our lives. However, making it easier is an important task, and it’s one which is accomplished by death cafe meetings around the world.
“At a death cafe, there’s tea, cake and honest discussion about death and end-of-life choices,” says local celebrant Josie Scott, who has helped bring the international concept to Kaipara.
“Having a clear view of the end of life can make living life to the fullest easier. These meetings are about talking to a group of like-minded people. That’s why we’re here. If you want to listen, you can just listen, but if you want to talk, you can talk. Nothing is off the table.”
The death cafe concept has proven popular in Kaipara. An occasion to be held on April 22 in Dargaville will be the fourth open discussion touching on matters, such as funeral arrangements, legacy planning, end of life care, dying with dignity, burial options and other
practicalities, surrounding a planned, measured acceptance that all lives draw to a close sometime. Worldwide, there have been more than 23,000 death cafes, in places as far apart as the UK and Mexico, with New Zealand well represented.
“We feel that it’s very important that everybody in the community can talk about death and be comfortable discussing this important topic,” says Josie. “Some people are reluctant to talk, out of fear, or perhaps the fear of offending others, but it’s healthy, and a death cafe is a place where it’s safe to do so.”
Dargaville will host a death cafe event in mid-April, with the Good Life Store on Victoria Street chosen as a venue that’s relaxed, informal and conducive to conversation. The abundance of tea and cake readily available is a delicious bonus. Everyone is welcome to come and talk about the important topic of mortality and how we can plan for it, face it, shed our fear of it and live life to the fullest. The death cafe event starts at 5pm and is free to attend. ¢
Hospice Kaipara is a free service which provides home-based support, working with people and their family/whanau, who face a life limiting illness. Support includes symptom management, resources, equipment, counselling, bereavement support and more. For more information please phone on 0800 395 467 or email office@hospicekaipara.org.nz
Contemporary and natural solutions, offering choice, facilitating creative, personalised family led funerals that truly reflect the uniqueness of every life. A fresh approach to after death care and funeral arranging Proud to be independent and locally owned
p Josie Scott has been instrumental in bringing death cafes: a place to discuss and normalise talking about death to Kaipara
Expert menopause care — at your place
Menopause Wellbeing is a private online clinic operated by Sexual Wellbeing Aotearoa: you might know us as Family Planning. We’re experts in sexual and reproductive health.
Through our private menopause clinic, we offer dedicated, expert and tailored menopause treatment — all without you having to leave home.
With longer appointments, we can investigate your symptoms in more detail and provide tailored treatment plans and advice, including hormone therapy and other medications. Time is precious. That’s why we’re offering virtual appointments, held in the late morning, afternoon, and evening, to fit in with your busy life.
Our services
Hormone therapy, sometimes called menopause hormone therapy (MHT) or hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is the most-effective treatment we have for relieving many symptoms of perimenopause and menopause. It’s not for everyone though, and there is a range of other medications that have been found to help menopausal symptoms.
Our appointments
All our appointments are online. Your first appointment will be 45 minutes long. You’ll see the doctor or nurse practitioner you booked with. They’ll discuss your physical symptoms and other relevant medical conditions, as well as your psychological wellbeing and any concerns you may have, and come up with a treatment plan tailored to you. Followup appointments and prescription repeat appointments are also available. Booking options
You can book using our online booking system. Check out our website for more details at menopause.sexualwellbeing. org.nz, or you can call us on 07 810 6823.
Doing good, while doing you good By coming to us for menopause treatment, you’re also supporting our valuable work across New Zealand. All proceeds from this clinic are reinvested in Sexual Wellbeing Aotearoa, enabling us to continue to promote health, advance education and benefit the community.
Contact our Care Home Manager, Jill Morris-Ioane 09 439 6367. We look forward to hearing from you.
PS Menopause Wellbeing and Sexual will be in the Health Hub at the 2026 Fieldays — stop by and say hello. ¢
If your midlife is making you miserable, make an appointment for an online menopause consultation. At Menopause Wellbeing we offer dedicated, expert and tailored menopause treatment.
visit www.menopause.sexualwellbeing.org.nz to book or you can call us on 07 810 6823.
p Dr Suzie Evason: “I’m interested in health and wellbeing at menopause, and I look forward to treating and working with women at a time when they can often feel alone and unsupported.”
p Nurse practitioner Rachell Webb: “Having worked in sexual and reproductive health for over 12 years, I understand the impact perimenopause and menopause can have on a woman’s life, particularly when not recognised or given the appropriate care.”
p Nurse practitioner Katie McCullough: “There’s a significant gap in accessible, evidence-based support for people navigating menopause, and I’m eager to draw on my clinical background to contribute to improving menopause care across Aotearoa.”
Affordable dream or costly nightmare?
u by Liz Clark
With the change in the Building Code earlier this year, homes of 70sqm or less can now be
consent — things have gone a bit crazy.
First of all, do your research. Sure, the adverts you see coming up in your social media feed look tempting. Scenes of mountains in the background or a lake setting, but it couldn’t be further from the truth. The reality is — most sites aren’t large, let alone have a mountainous backdrop, lake or seaview either.
If you do manage to afford a section or small lifestyle block before even purchasing it, especially in the case of lifestyle or residential subdivisions, check for any covenants that may require a specific type of home and ban others, such as transportable homes. If everything checks out via your lawyer with the due diligence, make a decision once you’ve set your budget and stick to it. Also, check with your bank or mortgage broker if loans can be taken out on the home you’re planning to purchase.
at and have a proven track record. Ignore those claiming the home can be assembled in one day on-site. It’s a red flag right there. Most take four months if built correctly.
Don’t sign anything until you’re 100% satisfied your local council will approve the home you’re planning to build. There’s also the consideration that while the law changes might say you don’t need resource or building consent, a council will require the foundations to be engineer-designed with full plans provided. A reputable company will have a consultant engineer and an architect it uses for its plans, or you can engage your own.
With any housing company selling tiny homes or expandable homes, don’t
choose the one that is the cheapest, especially if they can’t produce technical reports and certifications to NZ standards relating to the home you’re considering buying. Look at companies that are wellestablished, have homes you can look
Allow costs for a surveyor, architect, geotech report, foundation design, water, power and sewerage connections. Your local council will have a list of fees and charges relating to building consent processes, so ensure they are in your
or
budget. Once an expandable home is constructed, its structure cannot be changed. ¢
p Doing your research first before purchasing what seems like a great deal can save heartache and thousands of dollars in repairs
Getting into hot water
u by Andy Bryenton
Public bath houses were common in Greece and Rome, where even emperors
values about nudity were very different for a lot of ancient civilisations.
One royal from ancient times, who loved his privacy, was a legend who famously went to great lengths to protect his personal space. King Minos of Crete may not have really kept a bull-headed monster in a maze to guard his palace, but he did own the first known bathtub, dating back to 1700 BCE. Lead pipes brought water to this massive pottery tub, located in the fortress of Knossos.
People may think that the Middle Ages were a terrible time for baths and showers, but this was the era when soap was first introduced to Europe. People bathed in wooden tubs, usually in their
kitchens, and only once each week, to save precious firewood. Edward the Third was the first British king to have his own bathroom, and that wasn’t until the 1300s. Records from the Dark Ages complained that Norse and Danish settlers on the coast of Britain were far too attractive to the local women, as they bathed every day and thus smelled better.
Henry the Eighth banned bath houses and feared bathing, thinking that it was water that carried the black plague. He was dead wrong, of course, but his superstition kicked off a terrible time for hygiene, which lasted until the
enlightenment. In the late 1700s running water became available to London homes, and William Feetham invented the shower. Initially only available with cold water, the addition of a coal-fired boiler soon made getting clean a pleasant relief after a day on the stinky streets of old London town.
Soon, a hot bath and shower became a novel addition to the stately homes of the nobility. It was high-class hotels, copying this trend, which brought the idea of a modern bathroom to the average person. The Tremont House in Boston, US, added full bathroom facilities in 1829, and enjoying a hot shower or bath while on holiday reinforced the desire to build something similar at home.
Seeing the trend, John Michael Kohler, a steel factory owner, put four ornamental lion’s paw feet on an enamel horse trough and sold it as an indoor bath. The public could not get enough. Bathrooms were renovated into many existing homes by making kitchens
smaller, as that’s where the plumbing was. Front parlours, once only small rooms designed for greeting guests, became lounge rooms, as people stopped congregating in the now-diminished kitchen. The desire to have a private hot bath, like old King Minos, had changed how houses were designed forever. ¢
p John Kohler, inventor of the modern bathtub: his name is still synonymous with good plumbing today
ROPER & JONES TURNS 100!
THE FOUNDATION OF A CENTURY OF SERVICE
Dargaville, and the Kaipara District, were areas primed for change and growth in 1926, just as they are today. Back then, as the nation modernised and the age of settlers, sail and kauri logging gave way to the rise of farming and civic expansion, two locals joined forces and combined their skills to make a business partnership which would eventually change the lives of thousands of Kaipara people.
Dargaville 1920s
With Gordon Coates in office in Wellington, there was a sense that Kaipara had come of age. The man from Matakohe had brought the first airmail flight to the Northern Wairoa, and the ribbon was cut on Dargaville’s municipal chambers and its harbour bridge, at the time the longest in the land. Opportunities abounded, and a person with a vision and some determination could see the possibilities amid all this change.
Stephen Roper was one such; for the past 14 years, since the era of the first world war, he’d worked with the Colmore Williams land service. In 1926 he struck out on his own, seeing that it was time for
to have its own local land agent.
“Mr Roper is one of the best known land salesmen in the north, and with his knowledge of the district and having done so well for his old firm, should do well for himself,” said a note in the Northland Age. “He has been one of the best advocates that this district has known.”
Stephen was ahead of his time when it came to marketing; even the letter he sent to his old customers to advise them of his decision to go it alone contains an invitation to do business. In an era when the lifeblood of the Albertland settlements was the daily newspaper, he offered to advertise properties free of cost; the kind of incentive which made an impression.
It was only days after the announcement of Mr Roper’s intention that another snippet appeared in the local news, this time concerning well known government land valuer Tom Jones. He formed an alliance with Stephen, combining their skills and reputations, and taking up
offices in Finch’s buildings, in the centre of Dargaville.
“The combination should be a good one,” said the news article, “as both members of the new firm have a sound knowledge of land values which should be of immense value.”
Roper and Jones was born with a handshake between these two men, and a commitment to helping local people find their new home, their new farm, the base for their business and the foundation of their wealth was made. It’s lasted 100 years, with a big birthday celebrated by the people who carry on their legacy, today.
Kaipara
The opening of Dargaville’s Municipal Chambers
From deep roots in history to a bright future!
Roper & Jones
Roper & Jones 100 YEARS
From the past to the future
u by Andy Bryenton
The story of how Roper and Jones, the partnership of two groundbreaking real estate agents in 1926, became First National Roper and Jones in the present day, is one that has impacted many local lives and careers.
The business grew swiftly from its roots in Dargaville’s main street, where Stephen Roper and Tom Jones set up their offices above Dr Finch the dentist, where the town’s Hunting and Fishing store now stands. Other towns were on the rise across the district, and Paparoa, Ruawai, and Maungatūroto would soon also host the for sale and sold signs of the pioneering duo.
Families moving to the district found places to raise their children, businesses found the premises from where they’d become household names, farmers bought their own land and brought forth prosperity from it. The names and faces behind the business changed, and the original partnership retired as they watched their company expand. The next big change for Roper and Jones would come in 1981, and its origins were far from Dargaville; across the Tasman in Victoria, Australia.
The First National Group of Independent Real Estate Agents Limited was incorporated as a public company on December 3 1981. It was a group
of independent rural real estate agents looking to work together to have a stronger voice, and mutual support. The concept, and their philosophy of independence, local expertise and unswerving professionalism saw the company grow just as fast as Stephen and Tom’s endeavour had, back in the 1920s. Soon, New Zealand real estate agents were keen to take part as well, and the old established Roper and Jones name began its long and positive affiliation with First National.
The modern era of the firm began in 2010, when the late John Powell and his wife, Jill Powell, took the reins of the historic company. Together, they committed to honouring the legacy of the original founders while elevating the business to meet 21st-century demands.
Under Jill’s leadership, the office hasn’t just survived in recent years — it has thrived. The team, across two locations in Dargaville and Maungatūroto, has consistently punched above its weight, earning the title of Top Rural Office in New Zealand several times. From the
National
and Jones
Poutō Peninsula to the Waipoua Forest and from Kaiwaka to Baylys Beach, the modern continuation of Stephen Roper’s and Tom Jones’ vision continues to be synonymous with property in the Kaipara.
“As we look toward the next century, the team at Roper and Jones continues to prove that while 100 years is a long time, our commitment to the people of Kaipara is only getting stronger,” says Jill. “We have a lot to look forward to, and we will be there for you with timely advice and professional service for the next 100.” ¢
Roper & Jones
p First
Roper
real estate — celebrating 100 years in 2026 and looking beyond
Roper & Jones 100
Looking to the next century
u by Andy Bryenton
A 100th birthday only comes around once, and it’s a time for reflection on the successes of the past and the opportunities of the future.
“For nearly a century, our team has been a fixture of the Kaipara region,” says Jill Powell of First National Roper & Jones, leading real estate professionals with a long history in Kaipara.
“Today, we are proud to announce a bold step forward: First National Roper & Jones is officially becoming First National Kaipara. This name change is more than just a new name. It represents our commitment to the future of real estate in an era of rapid transformation.”
It’s not just the changes affecting this fast-growing region Jill alludes to, even though predictions of demographic change, population growth, a new base of farming prosperity and a faster link to Auckland are all highly anticipated. Alongside these positive pointers, technology is changing the real estate game, and the future will belong to those who can combine the latest advancements with old-fashioned reliability and customer focus.
“As we move into 2026, the industry is being reshaped by the rise of AI and advanced PropTech — tools that allow us to provide faster, more precise, and more insightful service than ever before,” says Jill. At First National Kaipara, we are moving with the times, not just following them.
“The rise of AI in real estate isn’t about replacing the human element — it’s about enhancing it. We are embracing these new technologies to ensure
our clients have every digital advantage in the 2026 market. Still, as we evolve, our core values remain untouchable. We are, and always will be, a ‘people first’ business.”
Adaptation is what forged the alliance between Stephen Roper and Tom Jones a century ago. Both men moved beyond their former roles to strike out independently, and took advantage of better communications, new advertising opportunities and more stable links between towns and cities to achieve a lasting legacy. Now Jill and her team are taking a similar stance with regards to the emerging tools of AI.
Our clear vision is to carry the integrity of the real estate industry into this next century,” says the First National Kaipara principal officer. “While AI can analyse data and predict market trends, it cannot understand the emotional weight of selling a family bach or the excitement of buying a first home.
“Technology gives us the tools, but our people provide the heart,” Jill said. “By streamlining the ‘paperwork’ through innovation, we free up our team to do what they do best: listen, negotiate and support our community across the Kaipara.”
Whether you are in Dargaville, Maungatūroto, or anywhere in between, you can expect the same trusted expertise, now backed by the future of real estate technology. ¢
p Jill Powell, director and principal officer of First National Kaipara
TO BUILD OR RENOVATE
Timber transformed
u by Andy Bryenton
In 1915, as war raged across Europe, technological advances were being researched to give both sides an edge.
Fritz and Hermann Pfleumer were engaged in making better, stronger materials, and they were both convinced that simple timber could become something superior. They drilled down into the structure of wood, which is made of cellulose, with a binding substance known as lignin. At a microscopic level, wood is a mass of fibrous hollow tubes, and the Pfleumers worked out that if you collapsed these tubes you might be able to create superdense, stronger wood.
process is so interesting; it may unlock a cheaper, and possibly even stronger version of this material.
Nanjing University in China may have cracked the code, which could turn timber into a super-substance able to handle 392 megapascals of force. That’s within single digits of the performance characteristics of structural steel.
of the near future? It could be one way to improve the export offering of the New Zealand timber industry, by processing locally-grown wood into superstrength products. ¢
They were absolutely right. Their Röchling company of Haren, Germany, has been producing densified wood products for more than eight decades, and claims the title of inventors of the process that makes it. They send their products on to builders in all kinds of applications, including shipwrights who prize laminated densified wood for its thermal properties as well as its strength.
Amazingly, this material is also used thanks to its low electrical conductivity to make parts for electrical transformers. It’s the substance trusted to support big, cryogenically cold tanks of liquid gases in shipping. There are even wooden nuts and bolts made by Röchling as fasteners for situations where metal can’t be deployed. Wood as strong as steel seems too good to be true. After all, a resource that’s both renewable and strong enough to rival metals would seem to be a great fit for the building trade. That’s why news of a new twist to the wood densification
By using a chemical bath process to get rid of some of the lignin, and then another to make the cellulose swell, those tiny tubes inside the wood are filled in. Then the wood can be dried out in a process called selfdensification; the whole block shrinks and becomes incredibly tough and strong. Inventors of the process, Dafang Huang and Jie Li, also note that there’s no need for energy-hungry machinery in this process, making it even more sustainable.
With densified super-wood already proving its worth, might this new, even more resilient version provide fresh options for the architects and builders
p What if these wooden frames could be made as strong as steel? It’s not just a speculative question anymore
TO BUILD OR RENOVATE
Restoring people and property
u by Amy Fifita
A light in the community for those dealing with trauma and addictions, the Arapohue Retreat continues to renovate its
buildings and is looking for local partnerships to help.
Once a Christian camp teaching children who couldn’t read or write, the grounds’ purpose now provides a place of healing to people recovering from their old way of life.
“God gets the glory because he has provided for us and the restoration. We want local businesses to partner with us, because our base of donors that have been supporting us for five years is amazing, but they have given a lot,” said Janet Curle.
Having already done renovations to make the three houses suitable for everyday living, projects are ongoing.
“We are renovating the lodge and the bathroom in the cottage, and are about to do a big one down at the schoolhouse. There is work to do on all of the buildings, but those are the main ones at the moment.”
With two other buildings still needing renovations, there is room to grow and have more volunteers help in their ministry. Ray and Janet Curle are supported by builder and AOD counsellor Gary Codlin, who helps the men engage
p Husband and wife team Ray and Janet Curle are continuing to help lost people be free from addiction the little recurring donations that are really helpful, or even businesses that could donate anything like building materials, food, hay for the animals, baleage, mulch or composting materials.
in building and renovation projects. “It is preparing them for work, and giving them skills building and physical skills and fitness. It helps them get ready for life again. It is a valuable community service that we provide.”
With two houses, a lodge and farm infrastructure like the pond, Ray and Janet are reaching out to local people and businesses for support.
“I’d love local people or businesses to partner with us, even if it’s not a lot. It is
“There have been a lot of amazing stories of lives and families transformed. If you help one person, you help a family, and one person can change a community or the world.” ¢
“People are welcome to dump their lawn clippings so we can build up our compost piles or anything else.”
While the work with people continues, so does the work on the houses. If you want to donate items or funds to the Arapohue Retreat, visit wildsidetrust.org.
HANDY CABINS
Kaipara Kōrero
News from Kaipara District Council
Roadworks coming up
Insley Street
Insley Street is being widened and strengthened as part of the district’s roading resilience programme, aimed at protecting our shoreline and roads from future storm damage
The project will see a three-meter-wide revetment and rock armouring to provide road support and enable safer walking and access. Work is starting this week and will take around six to eight weeks to complete Traffic management is in place during the work – most of the time this will just mean a berm closure and speed restriction, with two way traffic maintained. During some stages of construction there will be stop/go in place, although delays will be kept to a minimum
Victoria Street
Work has been progressing well on Dargaville’s Victoria Street
So far, a new kerb and stormwater channel have been installed, alongside new cesspits and manholes The road will be dug out from Tuesday 7 April, following which new driveways will be poured. The work is expected to be completed by the end of April, weather dependent
February roading report
By the end of February 2026, 160,000m2 (53%) of the 300,000m2 of road resealing planned for the 2025/2026 financial year had been completed. The remainder is programmed during April 2026
Alongside the resealing programme, our roading crews focused on the annual metal strengthening programme during February, with 4,440m3 of unsealed road metal improvements made across the Kaipara roading network
Contractors Downer have been working with KDC to finalise next year’s forward works programme - the prioritised programme of renewals work for resurfacing and rehabilitation works on sealed and unsealed roads
Downer has continued monthly routine road network inspections, collecting and prioritising faults across the network. A total of 456 assets were inspected during February, and 557 culvert assets were assessed (7 5% of the network)
As we reach the end of the dry season and head into the wetter months, the road maintenance programme for our unsealed roads will ramp up and focus will turn to a full sweep of the roading network to assess where maintenance grading is needed.
Waihue Road closure
Bridge repairs on Waihue Road, and between 316 Waihue Road and Parore West Road, will take place between 13 and 17
April During this work there will be a road closure on Waihue Road with a detour in place via State Highway 12.
Mangawhai Road works
Following Easter, work will begin on Mangawhai Road to fix corrugations and areas of failure in the roading surface. Stop/ go traffic management will be in place, so please plan for extra travel time Work is expected to finish before ANZAC weekend
Keep an eye on your Antenno app for roading updates
Dargaville Town Hall
Since the December 2025 decision to demolish the Town Hall annex building and Northern Wairoa War Memorial Hall, council has been focused on amendments for the resource and building consents required for the changed scope in work, which also includes reinstating the heritage-listed municipal chambers Once consent amendments have been processes, a tender process will be undertaken
Kaipara Kōrero
News from Kaipara District Council
Citizens Awards
Who’s your local legend? Nominations are open for the 2026 Kaipara Citizens Awards, which shine a light on the humble heroes in our community who make our district stronger, more connected, and generally more awesome All you need to do to nominate someone is fill out a form at the link below and send it back to us. Visit kaipara.govt.nz/funding
Apply for a community grant
Calling all Kaipara community organisations! Are you looking for funding for events, services or activities, operational costs or capital projects? Our Community Grant is now open for applications Find out more information and apply at kaipara govt nz/funding Applications close on 30 April
New fees and charges for 2026/2027
We’re reviewing our fees and charges for the upcoming year and are asking for your feedback. Our fees and charges are used to support the operation and maintenance of a variety of services provided to the community, and are set on a userpays basis, rather than being funded by rates. This year, a three percent increase is proposed to some fees, to account for current inflation, in line with the Consumer Price Index (CPI) Other fees have changed or decreased. Find all the details and have your say at kaipara.govt.nz/fees-charges. Submissions close 4 May 2026
Thanks for your feedback
Thanks to everyone who’s shared their thoughts with us recently, we really appreciate it
We’ve now closed feedback on our Dangerous, Affected or Insanitary Buildings Policy following a recent review. We also heard from around 750 people during the Long Term Plan 2027–2037 engagement You gave us valuable input on everything from roads and solid waste to parks, open spaces and facilities and plenty more.
If you’d like to see what you told us, you can read the council report summarising the feedback on our website (go to council meetings > 1 April briefing agenda)
We’re only at the start of building the Long Term Plan for 2027–2037, and we’re looking forward to keeping the conversation going with communities across the district over the coming year. Formal consultation will take place next year.
Ngā whare pukapuka o Kaipara Library update
Are you satisfied with your local library service? We want to know!
What you love, don’t love and everything in between - this helps us understand where we can improve and better meet the needs of our communities. Visit your local library to complete a quick, easy and anonymous survey
Maungatūroto Library – temporary closure
Maungatūroto Library is temporarily closed due to a water leak next door that has affected the library
We’ve closed the library as a precaution while we await testing and assessments, so we can confirm what repairs are needed.
For the moment, for new holds, borrowing and returns, please use Paparoa or Kaiwaka Community Library, or head to Mangawhai or Dargaville Library Items can be borrowed, returned or collected from any location (reminder: Paparoa does not have an after hours returns slot at this stage)
Apologies to our library whānau, we know you prefer pages, not puddles! We’ll update you as soon as we have more information – thanks for your patience. Contact the library team on 0800 532 542 if you need help
Tinopai wharf
We’ve been working on a solution for Tinopai wharf, an important community asset which has been closed for some time. Recently, council staff, elected members, and representatives from the Tinopai Wharf Committee met to continue discussions, including reviewing early design information and high level cost estimates. We are looking at possible pathways forward for the wharf, including what options there are for external funding
AUTO & MARINE
Cannon packs more firepower
u by Andy Bryenton
Fans of the GWM Cannon ute have applauded its capability and
made this contender in the very competitive light
initial praise.
With a five-star ANCAP safety rating, a seven-year warranty and a 3.5-tonne towing capacity, there’s a lot to like about GWM’s flagship double-cab. So, how did they make it better?
With uncanny prescience, or at least an eye toward the way fuel prices tend to trend, the research team at GWM was already hard at work long before the recent fuel crunch struck home. Their answer? Not a fully electric ute, or esoteric choice, such as hydrogen fuel cells or biomethane. Instead, the new Cannon Alpha is loaded with a combination of two tried-and-tested technologies, working in tandem.
BY PROFESSIONALS IN YOUR COMMUNITY NOT “EXPERTS” ONLINE
It’s a proper plug-in hybrid, in that the hybrid part of the system regenerates its battery while it’s in motion, using kinetic capture methodology that’s decades deep in application. Couple a 120-kilowatt electric motor with 400 Newton-metres of torque to a turbocharged two-litre four-cylinder petrol engine developing an additional 180 kilowatts and 380Nm, and you have a potent but thrifty blend. Here are two highlights: the Cannon Alpha can tow 3,500kg and 685kg payload, but it can still turn around and log 1.7 litres to 100 kilometres of driving. The battery alone can carry this ute 115 kilometres,
but put voltage and fuel together and that expands to enough range to go city to city without stopping. CarExpert in Australia named this the best electrified ute of 2025, and that’s now a tight podium in a tough market. What’s revealed, when taking a closer look at the Cannon Alpha, however, is that it’s not just the nuts and bolts of pure efficiency that make a difference.
This ute is obviously meant to go to work, and that means it needs abilities off the beaten track. In some electric and hybrid machines, the temptation is to let electric and petrol motors handle a sort of all-wheel motion, but the Cannon Alpha instead relies on big locking diffs, a Borg Warner transfer case and the
ability to throw it in low range when the going gets tough. Why change a recipe that satisfies? GWM have electrified their latest ute without taking away the tactile feel of driving off the tarmac.
There’s another cool feature, too. The Cannon Alpha helps you save fuel even when you’re stopped. There’s the option to draw electricity from the battery to power all kinds of camping mod-cons, or more pointedly to charge up the batteries of power tools if you’re headed to put in some work far from a three-pin plug. If you want fuel economy, range, power and a cabin that’s a relaxing place to be on those long-haul drives, then this cannon provides ordnance-level bang for your bucks. ¢
p GWM Cannon Alpha — electrified and reloaded
WHAT’S ON?
April
Te Tiakina Te Kaitiaki/Caring for Carers — 7 April
9.30am–12.30pm. If you are a carer looking for support, drop in and talk to Westy at Heartland Services, Whanau Focus Building, 61 Victoria St. No bookings required.
Whare Awhina 155 Community Law — 9 April 10am–2pm. No appointments required. Free legal advice clinic.
Circus Kumarani — Free Circus Holiday Programmes (8–18yrs) 9–10 April 10am–2pm at Selwyn Primary School. 15 April 10am–2pm at Paparoa Memorial Hall. 16 April 12pm–4pm at Mangawhai Library Hall. Ruawai Festival 26 — 18 April 9am–2pm, koha entry, Ruawai Tokatoka War Memorial Hall. Food, info, crafts. Inland Revenue Clinic — Tue 28 Apr, Heartland Services, Whanau Focus Building, 61 Victoria St. Bookings essential. 09 439 7009 or 021 245 3765. 1st Dargaville Girls’ Brigade 40th Birthday Party — 30 Apr, 3pm–5pm, The Lighthouse Church, 78 Normanby St. Contact Team Leader Pauline 021 263 7446.
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 13–18 years. Gordon 021 262 0547. Alcoholics Anonymous — Dargaville meetings, Lighthouse Church, cnr Parore St and Normanby St, Monday 4.30pm & Anglican Church hall, 58 Hokianga Rd, Thursday 7.30pm. Top of drive, parking available. More help 0800 229 6757.
Alzheimer’s ‘Carer’ Support Group — Contact Maxine on 022 691 6068.
AMRAP Boxfit — Saturdays 7am–8am @ Selwyn Park School Hall. $10. If you have your own gloves and wraps please bring them with you. Ph: 022 424 6685, email: amrapboxing@gmail.com.
Anger Management Group — Thursdays 6pm–7.30pm 1/12 Kapia Street, Dargaville. Helena 021 564 618 or 09 601 4153.
Baylys & Beyond Gardeners — 2nd Monday of each month. Garden ramble, shared lunch, trading table phone 021 063 3444.
Blind Low Vision Support Group — 10.30am last Monday of month, alternatively at Dargaville and Ruawai. Noelene 09 439 0033 for more info. Chess Club — Wednesdays 6.30pm Dargaville, gold coin donation. Phone Stephen 09 439 8819. Circus Kumarani All Ages Circus Class — Learn some circus, casual or full term. 15 Onslow St, Dargaville, Tuesdays 3.30–4.30pm; and Paparoa Memorial Hall, Thursdays 4–5pm. www.circuskumarani.co.nz/classes. Check out the School Holiday programmes. Free trials. Citizens Advice Bureau — Dargaville & districts now at Parenga Street (between the Menz Shed and My Accountants).
Dancing Kaiwaka — Wed mornings from 9.30am. Keep fit mentally and physically, great crowd, morning tea, first 2 sessions free. Wear soft shoes, nothing else required. Bevan Lawrence 027 617 652.
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 Brain Injury Support Group — Every second Thursday of the month. Northern Wairoa Hotel dining room foyer. 10am–2pm.
Dargaville Club Jam Nights — every second Friday, 5.30pm start.
Dargaville Club — 55 Victoria Street, open Wednesday and Friday from 5pm. Members and guests welcome.
Dargaville Contract Bridge Club — Tuesdays 12.45pm, Wednesdays 6.45pm at the Kiosk, Memorial Park, Logan St, Dargaville. dargavillebridge@gmail.com or phone Peter 09 439 2437 or 022 405 6439.
Dargaville Darts Club — Every Wednesday, 6pm start, at Dargaville Club, 55 Victoria Street.
Dargaville Firearm & Military Collectors Club — 3rd Friday every second month at Lions Club Hall, Hokianga Road, at 7.30pm. Phone Alec Melville 027 215 1833.
Dargaville Friendship Club for seniors — 2nd Tuesday of month at 10am at the Kiosk, Memorial Park, Logan Street. Phone Brian or Barbara 09 439 5959.
Dargaville Mainly Music — Interactive music and movement for preschoolers and their carers. Wednesdays 10am Baptist church, Victoria St, during term time. Contact Rebecca 021 969 626.
Dargaville Man Up — Mondays 6.30pm at Te Arohanui Hall, Victoria St. David 021 0849 3670.
Dargaville Medieval Combat Club — Wednesday each week 6.30–8.30pm, Kaipara Community Centre, Hokianga Road. $15 per lesson. Equipment provided. Contact Kurt 022 622 7809.
Dargaville Menz Shed — Tuesdays & Thursdays 10am–3pm, Saturday 10am–noon. For more info phone Paul 027 459 3098 or Brian 09 439 6175.
Dargaville Museum — Open 7 days, 9am–4pm Apr–Oct, 9am–5pm Oct–Apr. 09 439 7555.
Dargaville Plunket Playgroup — 10am–midday. Held every Thursday, 29 Hokianga Rd at the Dargaville Plunket Rooms. Free service, coffee and tea provided. Check our FB page for further details.
Dargaville Public Library — Get Help from a DigiCoach. Mon–Fri 10am–2pm. 1:1 Support. Friendly local trainers. FREE.
Dargaville Riverside Taha Awa Garden Trust Join them in overseeing the running of the Garden. Contact Sheena 021 439 157 or email dargavilleriversidegarden@gmail.com.
Dargaville Scout Group — For boys and girls aged 5–99 years at 23 Onslow St. All info on door or phone Johnnita 027 296 5889.
Dargaville Tabletop Wargames and RPGs — Games like Dungeons & Dragons, Warhammer or other strategy games. Thursdays 6.30pm, Hokianga Road, upstairs above the cinema.
Dargaville Yoga — Yoga for every Bodhi at the Pono lodge. Tuesdays 9.30am. Thursdays 6pm. Mats available, everyone welcome. Find us on Facebook @ stretchyourbodhi. Diane 027 371 5274.
Girls’ Brigade — Thursdays 3–5pm at the Lighthouse Church, for girls 5–18 years. Register online at 1st Dargaville Girls Brigade 2026 registrations. Find us on FB & Instagram or phone 021 263 7446. Grow and Grow — Mondays 9.30am–12pm.
Maungaturoto Country Club. Part of the Edible Village Project. Plant, sow, weed and grow together. Josie Gritten 021 234 0519.
Hikuwai O Kaipara Waka Ama Club — NW Boating Club, 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 — Thursdays 12–1pm at Whanau Focus Office, 61 Victoria Street, Dargaville. Come and have your important documents verified or copied, free of charge. Call 021 245 3765 or 09 439 7009.
Kaihu Valley Music Club — 3rd Sunday of month, Kaihu Hall, Woods Road. 1pm–4pm. John or May 09 439 0827.
Kaipara Cycling — Thursday 3.45pm–5.30pm Junior Mountainbike Coaching, Sadie 022 453 4475. Friday Ride-day 10am–noon. Social ride on road and gravel roads. E-bike and analogue welcome. Karen 021 0226 4001. Riding from Dargaville.
Kaipara Grey Power — third Friday of month, February–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.
Kaipara Bootscooters (beginner line dancing classes) — Mondays 5.30pm–7.30pm, Thursdays 10am–noon. First hour is beginner and second hour is higher beginner. Dalmation Hall, Normanby St, Dargaville. Donna 021 729 955.
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 month in winter. Centennial Hall, Maungaturoto. Other months visit gardens in the area. $15 to join, first 3 visits free. Gloria 021 100 8153.
Maungaturoto Edible Village Project — Meet every 4th Sunday of the month. Maungaturoto Centennial Hall. 1 hour planning/inspiration meeting followed by 1 hour gardening. 4pm–6pm Josie Gritten 021 234 0519.
Maungaturoto High Tea — Good food and company with a dash of fun. 14th Feb, then every 1st Saturday of the month. Book with Kirsten 021 180 7321.
Northern Wairoa Country Music Club — 1st Sunday of month at the Scout Hall, 23 Onslow Street 1–4pm. Kathleen 021 077 7697.
Northern Wairoa Genealogy Society — Trace your family history at Dargaville Museum, 2nd and 4th Sundays of month, 12.30–2pm and at other times by appointments. Phone Sue 021 608 606.
Northern Wairoa Golf Club — Twilight Golf every Thursday. Tee off 4–6pm.
Northern Wairoa Indoor Bowls Assn — 7pm Mondays at Anglican Church Hall, Tuesdays at Ruawai-Tokatoka Hall, Wednesdays at Dalmatian Hall. Contact Warren Younger 027 478 5102 or evenings 09 439 6155.
NZ 60s Up Movement — Dargaville Social Meetings held at the Lighthouse Function Centre on 1st Tuesday of the month. Contact Margaret Pinny 09 439 4560.
Paparoa Box Fit — $10. Stretching/cardio/boxing.
Paparoa Memorial Hall, Wednesdays 6–7pm.
Paparoa Dance to Music — $5. Stretching/balance/ resistance bands/Zumba, Paparoa Memorial Hall, Tuesdays 10.30–11.30am.
Paparoa Kids Fun Class — Fridays 3–4pm, Paparoa Memorial Hall, $5. Learning/music/dodge ball/limbo. Parkinson’s Support Group — Saturdays 8am–9am @ Selwyn Park School Hall. Counterpunch Boxing $5. Ph 022 424 6685 email: amrapboxing@gmail.com. Peggy Purls in our Community — Every 3rd Wednesday 10.30am at Dargaville Sewing and Curtain Centre, 59 Normanby St. Charlene 09 439 6120. Petanque — social play. Mondays 9.15–11.30, $2, all equipment supplied at Sportsville. Judy 09 439 7920. Recovery Support Group — Mondays 6.30pm– 9pm. 1/12 Kapia Street, Dargaville. Chrissy 09 601 4153 or 021 564 618. Rock ’n’ Roll Lessons — Tuesdays 6.30pm–7.30pm at Northern Wairoa Boating Club $5pp. Text Kirsty 021 0818 7902 for more info.
Rotary Club of Dargaville — Weekly on Wednesdays, 11.30am –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 month, Feb–Nov at the Ruawai Bowling Club, 10am start. Merle 09 439 2335.
Scottish Country Dancing Kaiwaka — Memorial Hall beginning 9.30am Wed 28th January. Great fun, great group, any age, no partner required, bring a friend, morning tea provided, first two weeks are free. Do try it. Phone Elaine 027 432 0032.
Stepping Out Leisure Marching Team — Tuesday 4pm–5pm, Dargaville Dalmatian Hall, 20 Normanby St. Sharon 027 439 5634 or 09 439 5634. Stitches and Crafts — 31 Logan St, Dargaville. 10.30am–4pm, Tuesday and Friday. Contact Edith & Mike 021 439 675.
Strength & Conditioning — Baylys Beach Community Centre, Mondays and Fridays. 9am–10am, $10 per session. Call Tony 022 311 8447.
Tangiteroria Community Complex — Mondays: Pickleball 6pm, Sarah 021 772 822. Tuesdays: Yoga 6pm, Sharon 021 981 135, $15 per session. Wednesdays: Indoor Bowls (fortnightly in summer, weekly in winter) 6pm, Mel 021 772 822; Squash, Donna 021 761 022; Exercise Room, Mel 021 772 822. We ask participants are a Complex Member. For Pickleball and Bowls it’s a gold coin donation. Te Kopuru Community Library — Weds 10am–noon and Sun 3pm–4pm. Access through St Peters Hall. 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.
The Wellness Rooms/BioVibe — Contact CARE (student practitioner) BioPulse, reiki, absent healing, atlantis crystal healing, sound healing, family constellation, intuitive light worker. Pono Lodge, Hokianga Rd. Mon–Fri walk-ins welcome/by appt. Sat appt required. Text Angela 021 121 9923. 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
KAIPARA
Phone: 09 439 6933 or 0800 466 793 Email: info@rml.nz
Postal Address: PO Box 474, Dargaville Physical Address: 107 River Road, Dargaville
Editor: Andy Bryenton
Journalists: Andy Bryenton 021 439 947 | Amy Fifita 027 259 6455 | Paul Campbell
Advertising: Olivia Green 027 525 8197 | Sue Girven 027 525 7984
Classifieds: 09 439 6933 | info@rml.nz
Production: Gavin Bainbridge | Marnie Fuller | Daniel Foster | Liz Clark
Insert the missing letters to complete ten words — five across the grid and five down. More than one solution may be possible.
KAIPARA SERVICE DIRECTORY
KAIPARA SERVICE DIRECTORY
CLASSIFIEDS
CARAVAN EWOF (and marine). Call your local inspector today at A+ Electrical Inspections and Security on 021 240 6764.
SAWMILL MACHINERY for sale. Lot 1: Diesel-driven could be used portably, Lot 2: Band mill almost complete sawline with breast bench, conveyers, etc. Call Dennis 027 487 3347 to view.
SUZUKI ESCUDO Vitara/Grand Vitara — car parts, WOF parts, 4x4 parts etc. Good parts, good prices. Phone Derek 09 439 7573.
TOP SOIL, conditioned top quality. 100% suitable for vege gardens or new lawns. $95 per m³ onto your trailer, or truck deliveries available for larger orders. Phone 021 132 4107 or 09 439 5141.
PHONE
CHURCH NOTICES
DARGAVILLE CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE, 4 Grey Street. Church service on every Sunday at 3pm. Bible study/prayer Wednesday from 4.30pm–7pm, call Moses 021 248 8910. Support group: Celebrate Recovery from all addictions. Friday 5.30pm–8pm, call Gary 021 174 8737.
FENCING
FENCING,
call Jeff 027 476 5458.
PERSONAL
SINGLE? OVER 40? Meet other interesting, intelligent, genuine people just like yourself. Dine out ‘Dinner for Six’. Phone 021 639 552. PET SUPPLIES
PET DOORS — Cat Doors, Dog Doors for Glass or Timber — supplied and installed. Phone 027 275 0918 or 09 439 6458 Kevin Sowter or visit my website: windowanddoors.co.nz — Window & Door Services Ltd.
SEPTIC TANK SERVICES
MAGIC PROPERTY Services Ltd. SEPTIC TANK CLEANING. UNDER NEW OWNERSHIP. DON’T WAIT UNTIL IT’S POO LATE! PH: 021 290 0442.
TREE SERVICES
PROFESSIONAL QUALIFIED arborists. For all your tree needs — removal, chipping, trimming. Get the right team for the job. TEAM VEGETATION 09 439 0050.
TREE REMOVAL, pruning, chipping & stump grinding. Qualified & insured. Phone Scott 0800 468 9663 Arborcare Tree Maintenance.
TRADES & SERVICES
CARPENTER/RENOVATOR specialising in General Repairs & Maintenance, and Kitchen Installs. (30yrs senior experience). Contact Mark 027 603 8323 or info@alteredestates.co.nz.
CARPET CLEANING, repairs, re-stretching, and patching. Flood drying and small carpet laying work and upholstery cleaning. Very fussy and reasonable prices. Phone Darren, Alltrades Carpet Services 0800 425 587 or 027 286 8584. Dargaville & surrounds.
WINDOW & DOOR Repairs & Glazing, Insect Screens, Security and more — call me today. Phone 027 275 0918 or 09 439 6458. Kevin Sowter or visit my website: windowanddoors.co.nz — Window & Door Services Ltd.
CLASSIFIEDS PHONE 09 439 6933
Closing date for classified advertising for the April 14 2026 edition is Monday, April 13 2026
SITUATIONS VACANT
Finance & Administration Officer Join Te Roroa Development Group!
Waipoua/Dargaville, Northland
Permanent Full-Time
E te whānau me ngā hoa, tēnā koutou!
Looking for meaningful work in Northland that supports our whenua, whānau, and future?
Te Roroa Development Group is hiring a Finance & Administration Officer to keep our operations including Commercial, Farming, Forestry, and Honey running smoothly with integrity and mana.
In this role, you will provide essential financial and administrative support to help our management team achieve strategic and operational goals.
Key Requirements:
- Proven accounts experience and proficiency in Xero and Excel.
- High level of accuracy and organisational skills.
- Valid driver’s licence.
- Comfort working within te ao Māori.
Desirable Attributes:
- A background in iwi or the primary sector.
- Experience with website maintenance.
WANTED TO BUY
SUZUKI 4X4 Wanted to buy — parked, damaged or unwanted, Escudo Vitara/Grand Vitara. Phone Derek 09 439 7573.
WANTED TO RENT
HOUSE WANTED to rent locally 2–3 bdrm, long term only — Phone Andy 021 0821 4586
ONE-BEDROOM UNIT or flat for a female. Preferably in town. Please phone 027 741 3145.
- Enthusiasm for te reo Māori (we actively support professional growth).
We offer competitive pay, development opportunities, and the chance to contribute to sustainable whānau outcomes in beautiful Tai Tokerau.
Apply now: Email your CV/cover letter to myhr@teroroa.iwi.nz
Closes 9th April 2026 Nau mai haere mai – we look forward to hearing from you
“Toitū te mana o Tāne, Toitū te mana o Tangaroa, Toitū te mana o te IwiWhen land and water are sustained, the people will prosper.”
CERTIFIED WEDDING Celebrant “Ngaa Ringa Mahana” (Warm Hands). For all enquiries, call Connie NoperaPaniora. Phone 027 335 4768 Ngaaringamahana@ gmail.com.
DARGAVILLE HEALING rooms 7pm Tuesdays. No charge & no appointment necessary. Lion of Judah Building, River Road. All Welcome. Check us out on Facebook.
(Section 101, Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012)
Tara Iti Golf Club Ltd of Mangawhai, has made application to the Kaipara District Licensing Committee for the renewal and variation of an on licence in respect of the premises situated at Rako Drive, Mangawhai known as The Cottages at Tara Iti Golf Club
The general nature of the business conducted under the licence is Accommodation
The days on which and the hours during which alcohol is sold under the licence are:
At all times through mini bars Monday to Sunday 8am to 4am.
The application may be inspected during ordinary office hours at the Kaipara District Licensing Committee at 32 Hokianga Road, Dargaville or Unit 5, 6 Molesworth Drive, Mangawhai.
Any person who is entitled to object and who wishes to object to the issue of the licence may, not later than 25 working days after the first publication of this public notice, file a notice in writing of the objection with the Secretary of the District Licensing Committee, Private Bag 1001, Dargaville 0340.
No objection to the renewal of a licence may be made in relation to a matter other than a matter specified in section 131 of the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012.
This is the second publication of this notice.
The first was published on 31st March 2026.
PROPOSED FEES AND CHARGES FOR 2026/2027
This year a 3 percent increase has been proposed to some fees to account for current inflation, in line with the Consumer Price Index (CPI). Other fees have changed or decreased.
You can find out all the details on our website – www.kaipara.govt.nz or you can obtain hard copies of the proposed fees and charges document and submissions forms from our offices:
Telephone us at: 0800 727 059
Email us at: council@kaipara.govt.nz
Or call in to: 32 Hokianga Road, Dargaville Or Unit 6 The Hub, 6 Molesworth Drive, Mangawhai
Please send your submission to: “Fees and Charges”
Kaipara District Council Private Bag 1001 Dargaville 0340 Or Email to: council@kaipara.govt.nz or go online to www.kaipara.govt.nz
Your submission must be received by 11.59pm on Monday 4 May 2026.
DARGAVILLE 136 Whakahara Road
A Standout Home With Exceptional Views
4 2 4
DEADLINE SALE
A standout 34.67ha lifestyle property with stunning rural views and a warm, character-filled four bedroom, two bathroom home. Timber features, open plan living, wood fire, heat pumps, and great indoor-outdoor flow. Impressive 9x18m four-bay shed with concrete and power. Native bush, grazing land, well setup cattle yards, and a gravity-fed spring and water system. A private, well-set-up property that’s hard to beat. Enquiries welcome.
Plus GST (if any) (Unless Sold Prior)
Closes 2.00pm, Wednesday 29 April VIEW
1.00-2.00pm, Sunday 12 April
Nellwyn Lulich
M 029 127 4729
E nellwyn.lulich@pggwrightson.co.nz
Megan Browning
M 027 668 8468
E mbrowning@pggwrightson.co.nz
RUAWAI 132 Access Road
Your Next Project Awaits
pggwre.co.nz/DAG43322
4 1 2
DEADLINE SALE
If you've been searching for a home with space this country bungalow is ready for your creativity. Set on a generous 7770sqm (approximately) lifestyle section, this property offers room to breathe, play and create the rural haven you've always imagined. With four bedrooms the bungalow is ready for someone with vision to restore it to its former glory. Double garage and also a large shed suitable for storage and workshop needs. Set within a subdivision and awaiting title, this property offers an exciting opportunity to secure your slice of countryside with plenty of potential to add value.
pggwre.co.nz/DAG43248
DARGAVILLE 1067 Hoanga Road
Dairy Farm With Scale, Potential & Infrastructure
GST Inclusive (Unless Sold Prior)
Closes 2.00pm, Thursday 30 April VIEW By Appointment Only
Megan Browning
M 027 668 8468
E mbrowning@pggwrightson.co.nz
An exceptional opportunity awaits with this 203 hectare low-input dairy farm, offered across five titles and presenting genuine potential for increased production and diversified land use. Currently milking 400 cows, this property has demonstrated consistent production thanks to fertile soils, strong pasture performance, and productive flats, some of which have been laser drained for improved efficiency. Farm Infrastructure includes, 35 ASHB cowshed with yarding, abundant calf sheds and implement sheds, Reliable layout with good access to support buildings, Proven history under long-term family ownership in the past with now operated as a lease farm Accommodation on farm is a brick and tile homestead on its own title, elevated with views across the farm. Two additional four bedroom homes, both with garaging and convenient access to the dairy shed. Only 11 kilometres from a rural town and supportive community, providing schooling, services, and essential amenities within easy reach. This is a property with versatility and upside. Suitable for dairy, cropping, horticulture, grazing, or mixed farming - or continue with the current leasee, who is interested in staying on to milk for another year. 4 2 2
Megan Browning
M 027 668 8468
Plus GST (if any) (Unless Sold Prior) Closes 2.00pm, Thursday 30 April VIEW By Appointment Only E mbrowning@pggwrightson.co.nz
