Kaipara Lifestyler, April 9th 2024

Peanut harvest field day

Double win for lifesavers

Council: ‘government should pay’

u by Paul Campbell

Proposals to cut its funding for emergency services and sports facilities to free up $2.6 million for other work have prompted Northland Regional Council to direct the burden on to the central government.

“For us, the real question is why things like critical health services are having to be topped up by council rates,” says deputy chair Tui Shortland. “Why aren’t these critical lifesaving services being funded properly by the government in the first place? Central government should be filling the funding gap for critical emergency services like Northland’s rescue choppers rather than the region’s ratepayers.”

The regional sports facilities rate is another thing NRC wants to stop. While the rate generates $1.59 million a year, it says the provision is not a core regional council function, and funding should go to other council services.

However, Northland MP Craig McCullum says in the 2023–24 year, the government “via the Accident Compensation Commission and Health New Zealand contributed $128 million to helicopter services nationally. Services like St John are also about a sense of community ownership as well. I have no problem with NRC seeking ratepayer feedback, but I am certainly fine with a $12 rate contribution, and I think that’s true for many.”

support of option three, seeking NRC to continue to fund both the emergency services and sporting facilities.”

Cr Shortland says the two allocations are “putting very real pressure on council’s ability to raise rates to deliver on its core roles and functions, such as flood management, biosecurity, climate resilience, water and catchment management.

“There are many partner agencies that respond during Civil Defence responses, including the Police and Fire and Emergency NZ. However, that doesn’t mean that councils should fund these agencies. Those who wish to make a contribution to emergency services could continue to do so through the various fundraising initiatives those agencies run.

Sport Northland CEO John Wansbone says he’s disappointed in NRC’s proposal that the remaining projects on the councilapproved Northland Sport Facilities Plan are now much smaller and not likely to

“Sport Northland is also disappointed with NRC’s proposal to cease funding of our emergency services. We recognise how crucial it is that funding continues and therefore strongly encourage all Northlanders to submit their feedback in p

achieve the purpose of the rate of having regional benefit. “That is incorrect. There are several current and emerging projects that are of regional significance now at risk of not being delivered.

“We have already heard from the Northland Emergency Services Trust during this consultation period that the provision of helicopter services enables specialist medical services to be concentrated in central locations, saving the government millions in costs annually. This further supports the council’s view that the government should be wholly funding helicopter rescue services.”

NRC is currently consulting on a proposal to stop its funding as part of its Long Term Plan 2024–2034, which is out until Friday, April 19. ¢

Tui Shortland, NRC deputy chair

Peanut harvest field day Feedback sought on plan

Harvesting preparations are underway across six peanut growing sites in Kaipara and Northland with hopes high of a successful crop at a field day at Poutō after last year was washed out by rain.

“The 2024 trial season has allowed us to welcome further partners on board with the trials, including iwi and landowners who are interested in the potential longterm benefits of a peanut industry in Northland,” says project manager, Greg Hall. “It’s been great to see the interest in the project progress to enabling us to welcome new partners into the fold, to share in the learnings along the way.”

This is year three of the trials instigated by peanut butter entrepreneur Pic Picot and now supported by Northland Inc, Picot Productions, Plant & Food NZ, with support from iwi and agricultural companies.

Northland Inc held the field day at one of the sites in Poutō to allow the public, farmers, iwi and stakeholders to get a closer look at the potential of growing a

peanut industry in Northland. Greg Hall, along with trial partners Plant & Food New Zealand, shared their experience and learnings through the trial seasons to date. “After last season’s washout, favourable weather during the 2023/24 season has enabled us to successfully plant and monitor the growth of crops across our six trial sites.”

The Ministry for Primary Industries’ funding has been key to the project, which was initiated in 2019 when Pic’s plant in Nelson received 18 kilos of peanuts that were pronounced superior in nutritional value to some imports. Sample peanut butter jars received top marks according to Pic who hopes a viable long-term industry can be developed in Kaipara and Northland. ¢

The Kaipara District Council has opened up consultation for its Long Term Plan allowing the Kaipara community to voice its concerns and suggestions.

“When we first commenced the Long Term Plan preparations, we did not foresee the severe weather events,” said mayor Craig Jepson.

“The severe weather events caused major damage to roading and other infrastructure, saddling us with millions in recovery costs. Combined with huge pressure from compounding inflation and interest rates means we have more work to do and less money to do it with.”

The feedback period began last week. Residents can have their say about the proposed rate rise, which averages 15.1% in the first year of the LTP. After growth the following years are expected to be lower — an 8.4% average in the second year and a 3.4% average in the third.

“We’re conscious that the proposed rate increase for the first year of this LTP is considerable and affects everyone. It is a starting point. I’m confident that through the consultation process, we may find further ways to get the rates increase down.”

The KDC would like ideas regarding future-thinking projects in the Dargaville and Mangawhai areas. The LTP is scheduled to be adopted in late

July. For more information, consultation documents and submissions, visit kaipara.govt.nz/ltp. Public consultation closes on Saturday, May 4.

“I look forward to hearing from people what their ideas are. We will continue to investigate ways we can make further inroads to reduce costs up to the adoption of the LTP.” ¢

p Harvest will soon begin for the trial sites with harvesting equipment demonstrated at the field day in Pouto

p Mayor Craig Jepson says he looks forward to hearing from people about their aspirations for the Long Term Plan

A tennis inspiration

by Paul Campbell

Paparoa resident Ellisia Cleave is legally blind, but plays tennis and recently finished third in her class in an open tournament in Australia.

After moving to Paparoa, Lissie as she likes to be known, joined the town’s active sports group and soon discovered the role of tennis for the blind and vision impaired using a special soft ball with a distinctive ‘rattle’ sound effect. It was not long before she visited friends in Australia and found herself registering to play in competition.

“Joining my local club and having the opportunity to meet people in my community whilst taking part in a sport has been a great benefit to my mental and physical health and self-belief,” she says.

“Then personally having the opportunity to participate in BLV — for Blind and Limited Vision — tennis competition in Australia has enriched my life and given me the opportunity to meet other BLV sports people striving for success and individual improvement, I can’t wait to meet keen Kiwis and share the fun.”

Lissie finished third in her class at the Melbourne BLV Open and has come home determined to prepare for the New South Wales event in June. She also wants to spread support for

the tennis genre. “This is something people can do and participate also with sighted partners, so if a family member has vision setbacks, they can enjoy playing with family members. There is no organised support in New Zealand as in Australia and I am keen to progress this which I am involved with now.” Lissie would welcome inquiries at ejmcleave@gmail.com or 027 383 5194. ¢

Share your thoughts Shape our future

Northland Regional Council is creating a new plan for our region s future It’s about the mahi needed to care for our environment and people, and what our communities can afford to pay

For our environment, for our mokopuna – have your say on our 10-year plan by 19 April.

For our environment, for our mokopuna

have your say on our 10-year plan by 19 April

Map details massive road damage

u by Paul Campbell

Kaipara and Northland roads have had damage worth $89 million from at least 10 different significant weather events since July 2022. An estimated $34 million of this damage occurred in Kaipara, of which approximately $16.5 million of work is still to be completed.

A new online mapping tool developed by Northland’s three district councils shows the latest repair plans for the 57 slips in Kaipara of the remaining 195 still affecting district roads.

The District Road Slips map uses a ‘pin’ to show the exact location of each slip affecting the council-maintained roading network and details including the type of slip, its size, what repairs are required, and whether repairs are in the planning, investigation, design or construction stage.

A completion estimate is also included. The pins are colour-coded to differentiate between slips requiring complex and longer-term repairs, and those less complex sites. The online tool is now available on the Kaipara District Council website. General Manager for Infrastructure, Anin Nama, says in Kaipara, approximately $16.5 million of work is still to be completed.

“We have restored most roads but are still working on 57 sites in Kaipara. To

some motorists, it may seem like very little is happening to address these remaining slips. That is not the case. Some of these sites are very complex with significant engineering, planning and funding questions that must be resolved before contractors can start working on repairs. The reality is that it will take another year or more to start some repairs.”

He says the District Road Slips map provides motorists with at-a-glance plans for repairs to routes they regularly travel on and for all other district roads impacted by slips in Northland. ¢

ENQUIRE TODAY WITH OUR PROFESSIONAL TEAM TO ARRANGE A VIEWING!

p Work underway on road slips will ‘take a year or more’

p Ellisia Cleave at the Tennis Australia Blind and Low Vision Victorian open held on March 16th and 17th

Report reveals reasons for delay Double win for lifesavers

u by Andy Bryenton

The first liquidator’s report regarding the company operating Dargaville’s Four Square supermarket has shed light on why the popular store has not yet reopened.

The liquidators, KPMG, report that company director Amitesh Lal attributed the business’ failure to ‘a result of difficulties in trading during the Covid-19 period along with an ongoing dispute with a related party.’

However, complications with accessing the premises have contributed to delays in the liquidation process.

‘On the day of appointment, the liquidators spoke with the director, who indicated their intention to have the liquidation terminated. He agreed to meet with the liquidators at the premises the following day to discuss the affairs of the company,’ says a KPMG document from March 12.

‘The liquidators subsequently received a notice of termination of the company’s lease with immediate effect from the landlord due to unpaid rent. On arrival at the premises, the liquidators were advised they were unable to access the premises as the lease had been terminated, and keys were returned to the landlord earlier that day. The liquidators were unable to continue to trade the business due to the termination of the lease.’

This same report lists the liquidators’ estimate of the liabilities of Lal’s Enterprises Ltd as exceeding $1.2 million, of which $9,237 has been recovered. Assets such as company vehicles, fixed assets, inventory and investments are recorded as ‘withheld’.

The franchise owner has terminated the franchise agreement, which allowed the store to trade under the Four Square name as of March 11. The liquidators say that discussions are ongoing with the landlord of 113 Victoria Street to enable the sale of the business or its reopening, but no decision has been reached yet. ¢

u by Amy Fifita

Recently, the Surf Life Saving Baylys Beach team came back victorious from the National Inflatable Rescue Boats Championships with two gold medals.

“I have been in surf lifesaving for about a decade. My sister did it before me and it is good fun. I enjoyed seeing all the work from the season pay off, our team growing closer and the great results,” said coach Kyran Gillespie.

The championship was at Dunedin’s Waikouaiti Beach. One hundred and nineteen crews from 26 clubs from New Zealand and Australia competed in the two-day event.

“The competitions replicate various rescue scenarios. We did assembly, mass, single and tube rescues and team events. Our under-19s male competitors Matty Douglas and Sam Jenkins won two golds for their tube and mass rescues.”

The tube rescue contest involved a crew member jumping from an IRB into the water with a tube before performing a rescue. In the mass rescue, lifesavers had to save two patients positioned in different places.

“We went to Waihi last year, but it was cancelled after one event so this championship was our first full national competition. It is awesome because we are a small club and are quite new.

“We had a big crew go down and heaps of supporters so there was quite a racket on the beach. Everyone was stoked. We were the furthest travelling club and did a lot of fundraising. A big thanks to all the sponsors and supporters and everyone who got us down to Dunedin.” ¢

p Still closed — unpaid rent is listed as a key factor in the inability of Dargaville’s Four Square liquidation saga to reach a conclusion

p The Surf Life Saving Baylys Beach team that competed in the National Inflatable Rescue Boats Championship in Dunedin

The path to victory

u by Amy Fifita

Former Dargaville High School student Sinamoni Ma’ama is the face of the local Caltex’s Fueling Sports poster as he continues his road to becoming a professional rugby player overseas.

“He became the poster boy for Caltex. The company wanted a sporting individual who has gained several high sporting achievements and is well known at Dargaville High School and in the local community,” said assistant principal Angela Troath.

Dargaville High School is part of the Caltex Fueling Sports programme. It provides students with opportunities in sports to build a stronger school community and encourage lifelong friendships.

“Sinamoni was often referred to as the Gentle Giant. He is currently in Australia and has signed with an agency showcasing his skills to various Australian league clubs in the hope of getting a three-year contract.”

Last year, Sinamoni was acknowledged for his athletic skills and received sports dux. He was in the Police Academy in 2022. Part of Sinamoni’s sporting journey included the new DHS deputy principal Marley Mackay coaching him in the under-18 Waipu team.

“He was awesome to teach and always wanted to learn. He has always wanted to learn and is athletically gifted,” said Mr Mackay.

Sinamoni frequented the school’s Fia Fia Nights and was also mentored

p

by Peter Hugo, who supported his rugby goals and his future.

“Sinamoni demonstrated dedication and growth academically and personally. He showed great leadership and stepped up as the deputy head boy and cultural leader. He embraced challenges and developed valuable life skills,” said year 13 dean Ashleigh Sage. ¢

Fundraiser fights addictions

u by Amy Fifita

Recently, Dargaville fighter Tony Tahere fought against Harace Pomare at the Fight Against Addiction event in Whangārei to support Man Up.

“I gained a lot of knowledge from my opponent Horace Pomare. I give him a 10 out of 10 for his heart, the way he held himself and his sportsmanship. Every time he got me good he empathised with me and showed the love and that is genuine and rare,” said Tony.

Tony said it was his second kickboxing fight and they used the K-1 rules. Horace was the victorious opponent.

“I urge people to not give up, we will fight for you until you are ready to fight against your addiction. I acknowledge GTR, Victory House and our hosts Flavell Boxing Gym because it would not have happened without their kaupapa.”

Tony said people need more support systems to help families to break the cycle of addiction.

“The event was about us getting together in the North to fight against

addiction. Many people are going through a fight with drugs and alcohol,” said GTR spokesperson Kahu Namana.

Kahu says he is grateful his uncle Herbert Rata gave him a place at Gateway to Recovery rehabilitation programme and that most of the people there come from broken homes.

“I am grateful to him for taking me in at a time of need. I have smoked drugs for half my life and started drinking alcohol at 10 years old and now am three months clean of everything.” ¢

Caltex Fueling Sports poster boy Sinamoni Ma’ama was the Dargaville High School sport dux recipient and endeavours to begin his professional rugby career overseas

p Kickboxer Tony Tahere was supported by Man Up facilitators Craig Sullivan and Shayne Dempster

u by Andy Bryenton

A legendary engagement Citizens Advice for Mangawhai

A date is set, keynote speakers engaged and invitations out for a legendary event envisioned to inspire future achievers.

A working group has been formed to see the Kauri Coast Legends initiative through to fruition. This party consists of the current Kaipara District mayor Craig Jepson, politician and diplomat Sir Lockwood Smith, high profile company director and local farmer Greg Gent, and Lorraine Davidson and Sue Curtis, staff of the Dargaville Community Development Board.

“The Kauri Coast Legends event on October 12 is a community festival, where youth and our community can meet with both visiting and local legends,” says Lorraine.

“These are high achievers who have attended school or lived in the area during their youth. In the evening a gala dinner will be held to honour the legends, with insightful after-dinner addresses from keynote speakers.”

Following this event, the newlyformed Legends Trust will dedicate funds towards youth training and scholarships, encouraging local young people to live their dreams.

The DCDB is inviting nationally or internationally recognised people who have excelled in their particular field of endeavour and were born or raised in Dargaville and the Kauri Coast. These

are the inspirational legends of the event’s title.

“We have a list of 60 people who qualify as Kauri Coast legends, which is amazing for such a small rural town,” says Lorraine. Community organisations, businesses and interested residents will be able to secure tables for the event, where the catering will be presented by Northland Hospitality students. To find out more, please call the DCDB on 09 439 0464 or visit their offices in Fosters Arcade, Victoria Street, Dargaville. ¢

Assistance from the local Te Whai Trust has enabled the longestablished informational and advisory organisation to have a presence in Mangawhai, and initial enthusiasm for the CAB’s presence may see its currently limited hours grow.

“Our services are free and totally confidential, and the information we access on behalf of clients is up to date. If you have an issue that you would welcome help with, please contact us. We are here to help,” says Wellsford CAB chairperson Brian Wright.

Those services include but are not limited to help with budgeting, employment issues, tenancy, family issues, boundary disputes, consumer rights, benefits, the completion of electronic documents, and connections with local services.

The Mangawhai offices of the CAB are situated alongside the Te Whai Trust and operate on the first and third Tuesday of each month, from 10am. Wellsford’s branch is open Tuesday to Friday from 10am with no appointments necessary.

“If you would like to join our team of dedicated volunteers, we would be delighted to hear from you. Full training and support will be given,” he says.

You can contact the CAB during business hours on 09 423 7333. ¢

The Citizens Advice Bureau relies on volunteers to operate, as it is not a department of government, but a service for citizens, by citizens. That means Brian and his team would be grateful to hear from those who wish to help expand their presence on the coast.

p Luke Bird will host the Kauri Coast Legends event later in the year

CAB volunteer Moira at the Te Whai Trust site in Mangawhai

CAFE

New road spares ancient creatures

Duck hunters invest in nature

u by Andy Bryenton u by Andy Bryenton

Travellers through the Brynderwyns during the roads reopening for Easter would have appreciated the scale of engineering on display, but it has been matched by work in ecology.

The New Zealand Transport Agency and roading engineers Fulton Hogan literally moved mountains to stabilise and protect the State Highway One corridor through the hills, shifting 150,000 cubic metres of rock and soil. However, before they did, they took care to catalogue and move every native animal in their way.

“It’s an area of outstanding natural beauty that we have to protect while we’re carving great lumps out of it,” said project manager Ashley Cooper.

“So there are an awful lot of environmental controls that we have to have in place. The project has more ecologists on it than I’ve ever experienced on any project before. More than 12 permanently based on-site.”

These ecologists managed to protect kauri snails, bats, kiwi and native skinks from the necessary but extensive earthworks. However, the biggest winner in this controlled movement was the tiny, silent Hochstetter’s frog.

One of the most primitive frog species in the world, this survivor from prehistoric times is found only in a few small

ecological ‘islands’ in the upper North Island of New Zealand. It’s deaf and mute, feeds on insects, and possesses excellent camouflage. Project ecologists expected to find some of these taonga specimens, but in the end, they moved more than 600 from the work corridor, proving that the little amphibians are doing well in their hilltop home. They will go on to live elsewhere in the vicinity, away from the road.

The Brynderwyn Hills resilience works are set to open permanently for traffic by May 12. ¢

Duck hunters will be busy sorting out their hunting licences and equipment in the coming weeks, ahead of the 2024 season; funding from these licence sales is already helping Kaipara wetlands.

Game bird season licence fees help pay for the rewilding of wetlands across the country. On World Wetlands Day, the flagship project advanced by Fish and Game New Zealand was one near Dargaville.

The Northland Fish and Game Council and the Game Bird Habitat Trust contributed $259,900 to help complete the Underwood Wetland Project, which commenced in 2017 and has turned 342 hectares of land near the Northern Wairoa River into a habitat for endangered species such as kauri snails, bitterns and īnanga. The land was purchased from David and Gloria Underwood thanks to a $600,000 grant from the Nature Heritage Fund.

Game CEO Corina Jordan as stage two of the wetland project was completed in February.

“Fish and Game has been at the forefront of protecting New Zealand’s freshwater for the past three decades, with a dedicated spend of almost $3 million per annum covering engagement in national and regional policy processes and work on the ground to protect and restore wildlife habitats,” said Fish and

“Approximately $2.4 million has been invested from the sale of game licences and habitat stamp products for projects like the Underwood Wetland to protect, restore and create wetlands, mainly on private rural land, in partnerships between hunters and landowners.”

In the 2023 hunting season, hunters contributed $157,808 from game licences sold to be distributed by the trust as habitat grants. Hunters will once again be contributing to rewilding as they gear up for 2024. ¢

p Northland MP Grant McCallum surveys work on the Brynderwyn Hills traverse, where engineering work has been matched with ecology

p Duck hunters will be pleased to know that their licensing fees are being put to work close to home

Warmington’s winners

Selwyn Park School welcomed families to the school grounds at its Triathlon last Thursday. Pupils engaged in various sporting activities like cycling, running, swimming and other fun races. “Every single one of my students are winners in my eyes,” said Todd Warmington. “The triathlon is about children having fun, participating in challenges and most of all, getting out there and doing it.”

p Selwyn Park School students retreated under shelter while waiting for their races

p The day involved students taking part in the triathlon-themed splash, ride and run and team and individual races

p Cayden Hall showcased his skipping skills across the court on the day

p Moana Kapa was cheered on by family members as she participated in the cycling event

p Samuel Baker-Southgate displayed some fancy footwork with the ball activities

p Children began the triathlon with a splash in the pool before going on to the other activities

Kaipara Kōrero

Level 3 water restrictions are in place for Dargaville and Baylys Beach. Head to bewaterwise.org.nz for water saving tips.

New online map for slip repairs

A new online mapping tool developed by Northland’s three district councils shows the latest repair plans for the 195 remaining slips (57 in Kaipara) still affecting district roads following severe weather events that hit the region during 2022-23.

The District Road Slips map uses a ‘pin’ to show the exact location of each slip affecting the council-maintained roading network. Click the pin to see details including the type of slip, its size, what repairs are required, and whether repairs are in the planning, investigation, design or construction stage. The pins are colourcoded to differentiate between slips requiring complex and longer-term repairs, and those less complex sites. Check out the map at kaipara.govt.nz/northland-slip-repair-map

New roof for Dargaville Library

The Dargaville Library will close for three to four days next week while the roof is replaced. All digital services will run as per usual and the library team will be available on 0800 532 542 or by email at library@kaipara.govt.nz The work is weather dependent, please keep an eye on our Facebook page for updates or download the Antenno app for updates on the closure.

Library roles an exciting step towards a modern service

A new lead librarian and two assistant librarians are coming soon to Mangawhai! Recruiting for these three roles is an exciting step towards transitioning Mangawhai Community Library to a branch of Kaipara Libraries.

The Mangawhai Branch Library is scheduled to open in August. Keep an eye on Kaipara District Council channels for the confirmed date closer to the time.

About the Lead Librarian and Assistant Librarian roles

The Lead Librarian will oversee and actively engage in day-to-day operations of the Mangawhai Branch Library, providing a valuable service for our community. This is a full-time role, leading two Assistant Librarians and a small team of volunteers. Two Assistant Librarians will provide exceptional customer experience and ensure that our communities make the most of the wide range of services Kaipara Libraries offers. Confidence in using and learning new technologies, and customer services skills are a must. These roles are up to 20 hours per week and Saturday availability is essential.

Find out more about these roles and apply at kaiparadc.recruitmenthub.co.nz/ Applications close Wednesday 1 May 2024.

The Mangawhai branch library will offer the same professional, modern standard of services as Dargaville Library (pictured).

Language library for Dargaville

Kaipara Libraries have created Whare pukapuka o ngā reo Language Library, situated outside Dargaville Public Library. Junior books with languages of the community are housed here and you can take any of these home to read and share. Languages included so far are Tagalog, Dutch, German, Sinhala, Japanese and Simplified Chinese. Pasifika and te reo Māori titles available to borrow through the regular lending collection. The language library was created as part of the Dargaville Pūtoi Rito - Communities of readers project.

Follow @KaiparaLibraries-Dargaville for regular updates on Dargaville Public Library.

Kaipara tsunami siren upgrades on the way

New, state-of-the-art tsunami sirens are set to be installed in Mangawhai this week. The upgrade is part of a larger Northland Civil Defence project aimed at replacing the existing tsunami sirens in Northland’s coastal communities, providing more effective warnings against potential tsunami threats.

Existing sirens in Ruawai will also be upgraded as part of the project. Find out more about the Northland tsunami siren replacement project at nrc.govt.nz/sirenproject

Have your say on the proposed Fees and Charges

Consultation on proposed Fees and Charges for 2024/2025 is open from Tuesday 9 April – Thursday 9 May 2024.

Every year Kaipara District Council reviews its fees and charges. Fees and charges are used to support the operation and maintenance of a variety of services provided to the community. They are set on a user-pays basis to ensure that rate increases are kept to a minimum where possible.

Read the full Fees and Charges Statement of Proposal and complete the online submission form at kaipara.govt.nz/have-your-say

Apply for the Community Grant

Calling community organisations in Kaipara! 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 kaipara.govt.nz/funding Applications close Wednesday 01 May at 4.30pm.

Upcoming Council meetings

• Economic Development Committee Briefing, 10am Thu 11 April, Mangawhai Conference Room, 1c Molesworth Drive, Mangawhai

• Remuneration and Development Committee, 1pm Thu 11 April, Mangawhai Conference Room, 1c Molesworth Drive, Mangawhai

• Council Briefing, 9.30am Wed 17 April, Mangawhai Conference Room, 1c Molesworth Drive, Mangawhai and on YouTube

• Council Meeting, Wed 24 April, Mangawhai Conference Room, 1c Molesworth Drive, Mangawhai and on YouTube

• Council Briefing, 9.30am Wed 1 May, Lighthouse Function Centre, 32 Mount Wesley Coast Road, Dargaville and on youtube.

Please visit Council’s website for the most up-to-date information or call Council on 0800 727 059 and ask to speak to a Governance Advisor.

4 April – 4 May

Consultation for the Long Term Plan 2024 – 2027

We are calling for your feedback to help us build our Long Term Plan for the next three years. Our district suffered major, long-lasting damage to its critical infrastructure during the extreme weather events of 2023 Normally a council’s long term plan looks ten years ahead, but because of the significant impact to our district from the weather events, central Government offered us a breather in the form of the Severe Weather Emergency Recovery acts. We are one of eight councils around Aotearoa New Zealand which is able to adopt a shortened three-year long term plan with a focus on recovery. You can read the consultation document online now at www.kaipara.govt.nz/ltp ka ara. and give us your feedback.

Key topics

You can provide feedback on any part of the consultation document, as well as any of the source documents There are some key areas that we are asking for feedback on

• What facilities and functions you want to see in the future community hubs for Dargaville and Mangawhai

• What sports and recreational facilities you would like to see in Urlich Park (Moir Street Reserve)

• How much, if any, funding Council should commit to a dedicated climate resilience and adaptation programme

• If you support a new way of rating for our parks and libraries operations and maintenance across the district

• New targeted rates collected on behalf of the Mangawhai Museum and Dargaville Sportsville We want to hear from ratepayers in the proposed targeted rate areas if they support this

We are also requesting feedback from ratepayers who pay the Forestry Roading Targeted Rate and those who pay Raupo A and Raupo B targeted rates about changes for those

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

Korero Mai Talk to Us!

Kaipara District Council elected members and staff will also be out about across the district during the consultation period, check out dates and times below. You will be able to talk to us and also submit your feedback at these events.

In Person

How to have your say

There are a number of ways you can have your say.

• Fill out the online submission form at www.kaipara.govt.nz/ltp

• Fill out a physical submission form and deliver it to any council office or library across Kaipara District (post to KDC Long Term Plan submissions, Private Bag 1001, Dargaville 0340) A physical submission form can be picked up at any Kaipara library or council office, or downloaded online at www.kaipara.govt.nz/ltp

Submissions close

11.59pm Saturday 4 May 2024

As well as online at www kaipara govt nz/ltp, copies of the consultation document and source documents can be viewed at both council

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

Victoria Street Walk Through A venture for community

u by Amy Fifita

Koren and Sam Lord took charge of Apparelmaster Kaipara last October and are excited about providing dry cleaning services to Kaipara.

“My husband Sam and I met in the navy. He is a marine engineer by trade and we left the navy in 2001. We then moved to Kaipara in 2001, and have lived in Tokatoka ever since,” says coowner Koren Lord.

“We love the beaches and lakes. We have raised our children here, enjoying everything the Kaipara has to offer.”

Koren said buying a business together was an opportunity for them to pursue something for themselves.

“We like how the laundromat and dry cleaning business lets us connect with people. After gaining a health and safety diploma, I worked locally for many years, though, I was looking for a career change while also wanting to have my own business. The laundromat seemed like a great opportunity.”

The couple has a strong focus on what service they can offer the community with the business, which includes workwear sales and rental, safety mats, eco-friendly roller towels, sanitary services, drycleaning and specialised laundry services. Koren intends to extend the business and increase the number of depots in the Kaipara area.

WE MAKE TOP TEAMS LOOK TOP NOTCH!

TALK TO US ABOUT

Workwear, mats, towels, and more for a fresh new look at a very attractive price! Drycleaning is now done locally instore.

“Learning a new role has been a fullon experience, but we are putting our best foot forward to provide the business with a breath of new life. We are also thankful for what the previous owners have done for the community.

“We service all of the Kaipara, and I want to provide a high-quality service

to the area. With the price of gas, no one wants to travel and that is where our pickup and delivery service is here to facilitate your needs.

“We are here to stay and wish to build on this well-established business, serving the community as best we can. We are happy here and with what we are creating. I encourage people to come in and say hello so they can meet our team and see how we can meet their workwear, laundry and dry cleaning needs.” ¢

p Apparelmaster Kaipara co-owner Koren Lord with her team Ange Finlayson, Oke Waikato and Michelle Linn

Victoria Street Walk Through

shopping adventure

Most people have at least one day in town, running errands or purchasing goods and for Dargaville, its main centre is Victoria Street. There are many opportunities to add some character or practicality to your home along the West Coast’s business hub — Victoria Street. Small-town businesses often rely on local support and for many in the Kaipara, Dargaville is their closest stop. Walkers down the main street will discover cafes, realtors, tech shops and second-hand stores amongst other services.

Boarding House Antiques and Collectables at 56 Victoria Street. With winter noticeably approaching, shoppers may be after some handwoven carpets to place on the floors of their homes or some antique furniture. Some trinkets would make a great housewarming gift while others can become family heirlooms to be enjoyed for generations to come.

when using different pots and pans. They are particularly useful for stir-fry meals. Another benefit is having instant heat when you want it.

Located at 106 Victoria Street, Apparelmaster provides the community with more than laundry services. They also offer alterations, clothing repair, first aid kits, washroom supplies and workwear uniform rentals. For customers wanting to prevent bugs and other creepy crawlies, the store also stocks Ecomist. ¢

The store has a treasure trove of wooden antique furniture, a haven for keen collectors. There are desks, chairs, crockery and other nostalgic pieces. Antiquarian Gordon Walker runs the business and says he enjoys meeting and talking to people. Another stop-off for many purchasers is 100% McKay’s to peruse various electrical goods. It is a one-stop shop for people wanting a new house-load of the latest technology. The shop stocks personal care items, refrigeration, kitchen, laundry, televisions and more. People can buy their p Victoria Street has plenty of goods and services for locals to take advantage of and enjoy winter bedding from the store and rest warm in the oncoming season.

Home cooks have a selection of kitchen wares to choose from like gas burner ovens. Gas cooktops are well known for providing users with heating control when cooking and versatility

Seeking lifestyle properties or spacious land?

Look no further! Discover our array of properties in the scenic surroundings of Paparoa and Matakohe!

Attention Investors!

Struggling to keep up with your rental properties? Not satisfied with your current property manager. We’ve got you covered!

We’re thrilled to announce the launch of our Property Management Services, designed to make your life easier and your investments more profitable. Meet Emma Hill, our dedicated Property Manager, who benefits from the owner, Shar’s extensive experience of 6 years managing numerous portfolios. Backed by Shar’s Property Management Level 4 qualification, you can trust that your properties are in capable hands.

With our expert team at your service, you can say goodbye to the stress of managing rentals on your own. From tenant screening to maintenance coordination, we handle it all with professionalism and efficiency.

Invest with confidence and let us take care of the rest. Reach out today and discover the difference Emma and our dedicated team can make for your investment portfolio. Your success is our priority!

Contact us now to schedule a consultation and experience the peace of mind that comes with top-notch property management.

Emma Hill Property Manager

E rentals.srl@professionals.co.nz

Draped in creativity

u by Amy Fifita

This year curtain trends are showing bold prints and colour, a refreshing change from the beige and plain colours popular last season.

While selecting a new set of curtains may be exciting, the economic climate allows families to get creative. For artists, the whites and beige of the previous year can be used as a canvas to brighten the home without the expense of new drapes.

All it takes is some fabric paint and some rollers or paintbrushes. This idea is great for people who want their bedrooms to represent who they are and is also fun to do with children. The design can be simple or elaborate.

While we still have some summery weather left in the kitty, it is an ideal time to fabric paint so it can dry easily. There are many methods to get a professional curtain look from hand-painting designs to masking tape techniques to tie-dyeing.

Personal taste is a must when creating how you want your house to look. Currently, colourful and bold prints are stylish, an idea that can be recreated at home with a paintbrush and some paint. Some doit-yourself designs require masking tape, especially for straight-lined patterns. Another alternative is to dye them for a bolder colour block. Creatives could also

tie-dye them for an added effect with more hues, and dip-dyeing is an option. Tie-dyeing gained popularity in fashion in 2023 and is here to stay for 2024. Historians have traced this timeless colour blast to ancient Asia, and it gained a resurgence last year.

Ice-dyeing fabric is a similar technique. Instead of using liquid dye, crafters put the material under ice before placing coloured powder on top. When the ice melts, it leaves vibrant hues on the curtains. Drapes can add a splash of colour to a home and can be more easily changed when the patterns or colours go out of fashion.

For something unique, macrame curtains can be made with dyed rope. This technique can be used over a drape and can add pattern to your drapes if layered on top of a window hanging. There are patterns for different macrame styles online. The great thing about doing DIY is that you can make your own designs to the style and colours you want. It is often a cheaper option for many wanting to achieve a look on a budget. ¢

p Homeowners can brighten their space with trendy vibrant hues and patterns this season for a current style

Seal it up

Part of owning a property is general maintenance, so as we near mid-autumn, there are some tasks we should do before winter arrives.

With any luck, we still have some fine weekends ahead to tick off some general home maintenance. Now is an ideal time to get the bigger jobs out of the way so the house stays warm in the winter months.

After the intense weather of last autumn, some people may not have had the opportunity to do regular house maintenance. Since we are still getting clear skies, now is a chance to get jobs done. If you make a weekend of it, the house can be sorted in no time.

Starting outside, clearing the gutters, cleaning the roof, unblocking drains and ensuring that paintwork is up to scratch are on the to-do list for many at this time

of year. Having the gutters and roof clear of debris can help ensure well-flowing water during rain. It will help protect the home from water damage and mould.

Homeowners may also want to do some weed control and aerate compacted areas to promote a healthy lawn. Having the chimney cleaned is another important task. Chimney sweeps will clear out any unwanted bird nests and materials, thus reducing the risk of fire. Many insurers expect the chimneys to be cleaned at least once a year.

Checking doors and windows is another task. One handy tip is to look at the outside of a house at night to

ensure it is sealed. Any light shining through will provide an insight into where you need to replace wood or apply sealant. If doors and windows need to be replaced, completing this before winter is desirable.

After ticking off the weather-dependent tasks, the inside work will be easier to manage. Thick curtains are good to install to keep out the winter cold.

Placing rugs down on wooden floors and cleaning existing carpets can make for more comfortable living in the damper months, too.

Cleaning vents is another should-do to prevent dust and dirt from circulating through a home. By the end of your weekend, you will have a sealed home better suited to resist dampness and draughts. ¢

u by Amy Fifita

Passionate about machines

Agriline Dargaville would like to announce its new mobile mechanic services, an addition to its full range of farming implements, lubricants, parts and accessories.

The Kaipara store has recently welcomed local mobile mechanic Ethan Crawford onto its team to help in the workshop and with the new service. The company has expanded its offering to farmers and contractors to include full on-site tractor and machinery services and repair work.

“I came from a Tangowahine dairy farm and have always been interested in machinery and tractors. I am ecstatic to work for this company. It has been interesting working here so far and it is a good team,” said Ethan.

The team, led by the experienced Matt Cobb, prides itself on providing excellent customer service and top-of-the-line machinery with its full range of farming implements at a competitive cost. They are committed to providing the local farming community with quality products, services and solutions.

Clients can also still bring their machines into the workshop for services and repairs. The trusted company also has plenty of tools, tractor parts and accessories for all your farming and contracting needs. The machinery specialist’s products include mulchers, stone crushers, feed-out equipment, spreaders, tankers, tillers and other cultivation

machines. The store stocks well-tested brands like Vigolo, Picursa, Giltrap and many more. The company is New Zealand-owned and operated by the Hamlin family, which sells products throughout the country. The machinery is sourced from Western Europe and Australia or is made in New Zealand straight from the manufacturer.

The Dargaville store relocated to its current shop in October last year and continues to supply the Northland area. Agriline Dargaville is located on the corner of Normanby Street and Edward Street and is open from 7.30am to 5pm on weekdays. For more information, visit agriline.co.nz or call 09 439 0500 and talk to one of the team. ¢

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p The Agriline Dargaville mechanic crew Ethan Crawford and Ken Blythen are there to service and repair machinery off-site with the new mobile mechanic option

The ‘beast’ versus the beach

u by Andy Bryenton

On the morning of January 26 1932, the west coast of Northland was the scene of an incredible quest for speed and power as a transTasman collaboration mounted an assault on the land speed record.

At the time, Sir Henry Seagrave owned the record, with his Gold Arrow racer posting a blistering 371km/h. Australian racers Norman ‘Wizard’ Smith and Don Harkness had this target in sight when they teamed up to break the record, and they had just the engine and location in mind to get the job done. In 1930, the pair raced their Cadillac-based supercar, the Anzac, at Ninety Mile Beach, acclaiming its qualities as a stable surface.

“At low tide, the water recedes perhaps a quarter of a mile and leaves a perfectly straight course of hard-packed fine brown sand,” said Smith. “Even above the high water mark, the sand is hard enough to drive on; below, it’s like concrete.”

The Anzac didn’t have what it took to defeat Seagrave’s record, being described

as ‘about as aerodynamic as Anne Hathaway’s cottage’. However, connections forged with Northland assistants and mechanics and respect for the western sands had seeded the idea of an even faster car.

Enterprise was the name of the machine ‘Wizard’ Smith and Don Harkness envisioned to take down the record. Its radical shape included massive 37-inch rims and specially made Dunlop tyres on a dartshaped body so low that if the car were to flip, it could roll upside down.

p Enterprise, the ‘beast of Ninety Mile Beach’, was a 1,300-horsepower monster car that tried to crack 400km/h in 1932 — similarities to Tim Burton’s Batmobile may not be coincidental

Under the hood, the speed record seekers needed massive horsepower. To match Seagrave’s Golden Arrow, they tried to get hold of an experimental Rolls Royce aero engine, rumoured to be the precursor to the legendary Merlin, but were rejected by the UK government.

Undaunted, Smith got the Australian prime minister on the phone and had him call his British counterpart. A 1,300-horsepower Napier Lion aero engine was shipped the next day, and when it arrived, it was supercharged. Fred Stewart masterminded the build, and though news came through before launch day that Sir Malcolm Campbell had pushed the record out to 395km/h, Smith and Harkness were buoyant.

Dismal weather, a fight between Harkness and Smith about the cooling system, and an unexpected risk took their toll to keep the Enterprise from record speeds. Torrential rain and big waves had brought the toheroa to the surface, and their sharp shells lacerated the car’s tyres, making it impossible to go faster than 366km/h. ‘Wizard’ Smith broke the 10-mile record comfortably, but the big one remained out of reach. ¢

WHAT’S ON?

April

Creative Northland in Dargaville — 9th April, 9.30am to 4pm at the SEED Co-Working Office, Fosters Arcade.

Drop in for a korero about your creative project — art, music, visual, drama. Kylee wants to help you to succeed.

Northland Inc Growth Advisor in Dargaville — 10th April, 9.30am to 4pm at the SEED Co-Working Office, Fosters Arcade. Here to answer your business related questions.

New Residents Welcome Event — Thursday 11th April, 2pm to 4pm, SEED Co-Working Office, Fosters Arcade. If you are new to Dargaville in the last three years, come along. RSVP for catering purposes 09 439 0464 or email info@dcdb.nz.

Dargaville Aero Club Open Day/Fly-in — Saturday 13th April. Gates open at 10.30am, no landing fees, food available, Helicopter flights possible, Barista coffee. Come along and join in the fun! All welcome. Ask about Introductory Flights with Dargaville Aeroclub.

Free Property Information Seminar — 13th April at 2pm, “Avoiding the Six Common Painful Pitfalls when Buying Your First Home”. RSVP email attendee names & session #5 to kathy@fnkaipara.co.nz.

Matakohe Markets and Movies — 13th April. Markets from 4pm–8pm at Matakohe Tennis Courts & Community Hall. Movie starting at 5.30pm in the Community Hall $2.50 per person or $10 per family (2 adults, 3 children). Stalls include food and beverage, face painting, plants, arts, crafts and more. Contact Kate 027 324 5205 for a stall.

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 further info.

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 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.

TIDE CHART

TUE

THU 11 2:53am (0.3m) 9:18am

(2.6m) 5:44pm (0.6m)

MON 15 12:14am (2.6m) 6:22am (0.8m) 12:41pm (2.4m)

TUE 16 1:08am (2.4m) 7:20am

PUZZLE TIME

Sudoku

ACROSS: 1 Steer, 4 Bolt from the blue, 14 Steps, 15 Patch, 16 Principles, 17 Chant, 19 Duo, 20 Jealous, 21 Timetable, 22 Always, 25 Faultless, 27 Washed, 28 Ascend, 33 Guaranteed, 35 Hue, 36 Violin, 37 Tomb, 39 Sly, 41 Inhabit, 42 Honest, 43 Sensitive, 44 Lunge, 45 Thresher, 50 Me, 51 Unsteady, 55 Samba, 58 Uppermost, 59 Reduce, 60 Benefit, 61 Air, 63 Pose, 64 Miller, 65 Ice, 66 Substitute, 68 Seethe, 69 Tossed, 71 Cavalcade, 76 Budget, 77 Hairbrush, 79 Astride, 81 Sue, 84 Weigh, 85 Penicillin, 86 Limbs, 87 Irony, 88 Pencil sharpener, 89 Asked.

DOWN: 2 Travel, 3 Excel, 5 Ogre, 6 Tonsils, 7 Raised, 8 Malta, 9 Hassles, 10 Back, 11 Unable, 12 Weeds, 13 Astound, 14 Strauss, 18 Outlandish, 23 Sleet, 24 Remorse, 26 Airfare, 27 Wrestle, 29 Erotica, 30 Quench, 31 Chief, 32 Sign on, 34 Doom, 36 Vying, 38 Beefy, 40 Dirt, 45 Thump, 46 Riposte, 47 Surf, 48 Exotic, 49 Smear, 50 Married, 52 Scepticism, 53 Elected, 54 Dainty, 55 Stilton, 56 Added, 57 Aces, 62 U-boat, 67 Shadowy, 68 Seismic, 70 Scalpel, 72 Absolve, 73 Demise,

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

12MM UTILITY Cladding Ungrooved H3.1 2,440x1,200 $75; 2,745x1,200 $84. Scooters Plywood 09 438 6565. 2015 FORD RANGER 4x4. 220,000km, one owner, $24,000 or near offer. Phone 027 237 8928.

CARAVAN EWOF (and marine). Call your local inspector today at A+ Electrical Inspections and Security on 021 240 6764.

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. $85 per m³ onto your trailer, or truck deliveries available for larger orders. Phone 021 132 4107 or 09 439 5141. CHURCH

TE KOROWAI

and their purpose. It is every Wednesday at 10.30am. Legacy and Man Up is every Wednesday from 6.30pm–8.30pm. Contact 021 136 5253 or tekorowaiministries@gmail.com. Celebrate Recovery is on Thursdays 6pm–8.30pm. Contact Gwen on 021 103 9065.

FOR RENT

2 BEDROOM Cottage available for rent. $325 per week.

Located a few minutes out of town. Would suit keen gardener. Strictly no dogs. Written Applications with at least 2 references to Wharau Topu C, PO Box 102, Dargaville 0340.

FLATMATE WANTED, to board with other female, single, quiet, working professional. Non-smoker preferred.

Please contact 021 193 4582.

Kaipara Community Health Trust

HEALTH SHUTTLE DRIVER

35 hrs per week

6-month fixed term contract (may be extended)

Professional Driving experience preferred. Clean Drivers Licence preferably with a P endorsement or willingness to acquire one ASAP Courteous, personable person to transport our community safely to health appointments in Dargaville and Whangarei.

Please email devans@kcht.co.nz or call Debbie 027 558 6272 by 17th April 2024.

Please email sportsvilledargaville@gmail.com if you require further information or wish to request a copy of the Job Description. Applications close Friday 12th April 2024. PERSONAL

DELTA PRODUCE

HEALTH AND SAFETY/QUALITY ASSURANCE CO-ORDINATOR

We have a part-time vacancy for a coordinator to oversee our Quality Assurance and Health & Safety programs at Delta Produce, a well-established Kumara packhouse located in Dargaville. We employ over 50 staff and support 20 local growers.

While our existing systems and policies are in place, we require someone to continuously review and enhance our systems. The ideal candidate would have prior H&S and/ or QA experience in a production environment or similar. The core responsibilities of this role include:

• Coordinating & managing both the Quality Assurance & Health & Safety programs

• Reviewing & establishing relevant policies & procedures

• Managing contractor & staff inductions

• Conducting research & analysis & documenting the findings in a user-friendly format

• Ensuring internal & external audit readiness

• Communicating with staff, management, & external stakeholders

• Understanding relevant H&S legislation / regulatory frameworks such as NZGAP and accurately Interpreting guidelines to maintain compliance

Additionally, the candidate will be an integral part of the admin team. The successful candidate will be well organised, demonstrate initiative, and have great interpersonal skills. The role will suit someone looking for approximately 15 hours per week. Please send your resume and covering letter to admin@deltaproduce.co.nz

PUBLIC NOTICES

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.

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.

ARARUA HALL AGM. Sunday 14th April at 11am. BBQ lunch. All welcome.

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.

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.

NORTHLAND’S TSUNAMI SIRENS ARE BEING UPGRADED

Northland’s coastal communities can expect to see new, state-of-the-art tsunami sirens from April 2024 This upgrade is part of a larger project aimed at replacing the existing tsunami sirens to provide more effective warnings against potential tsunami threats

These new sirens are a significant improvement in our disaster preparedness efforts, ensuring that our coastal communities are alerted promptly and effectively in the event of a tsunami

For more information about the project, visit www nrc govt nz/sirenproject