Issuu

On the cover: Te Kauwhata A & P Show hits the Te Kauwhata Domain on the weekend of 13-14 December. More on page 5.

Andrew’s Column

Stay safe on the water this summer

Like many of you, I am an avid fan of taking to the water over the summer, usually with a fishing rod in hand, so as we head into the festive season to enjoy our beautiful beaches, harbours, rivers and lakes, I want to emphasise the need to be safe.

Tim’s News

It’s now two years since the National-led government was formed.

Tough international conditions and the lingering effects of past mismanagement have made life challenging in 2025. Through it all, New Zealanders have stayed resilient, and our government has focused on what matters most, fixing the basics and building the future.

Chatter Community Newspaper is published fortnightly on a Wednesday and circulated throughout the North Waikato.

Readers contributions of articles and letters are welcome. Publication of contributions are entirely at the discretion of the Editor.

Contributions will only be considered for publication when accompanied by the author’s name and surname, telephone number and residential address.

All reasonable steps are taken to ensure accuracy.

Opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the owner or publisher.

Contact Jacqui Phone: 021 428 808 Email: info@chatternews.co.nz www.chatternewspaper.co.nz

Looking for the best in animal bedding?

Our premium untreated dry pinewood shavings, chipper fines or woodchip offer superior comfort and cleanliness for your pets or livestock. Don’t wait until the last minute-purchase early and take advantage of our summer deal for bulk or bagged deliveries. Enquire now at 07 888 1955 or order at orders@moorey.co.nz

While New Zealand’s waters are a source of pride, they also pose serious risks. Tragically, drowning remains one of the leading causes of accidental death in our country. In recent years, our fatal drowning rate has hovered around 1.4 per 100,000 people – higher than Australia. Many of these deaths occur during summer and are preventable.

One of the most dangerous scenarios for boaties is crossing a harbour bar. The bars on the Manukau and Raglan Harbours and Waikato River mouth are particularly treacherous. Shifting sands, strong currents, and unpredictable waves can catch even experienced skippers off guard. Incidents often involve small craft capsizing or sinking, and lifejacket non-use remains a major factor.

If you’re planning to cross a harbour bar, check the marine forecast, tide times, and bar conditions. Always wear a lifejacket, carry two forms of waterproof communication, and let someone know your trip plan.

For those heading out in small boats, kayaks, or dinghies, preparation is key. Lifejackets save lives – wear them. Ensure your vessel is seaworthy, your gear is secure, and your mobile phone is in a waterproof pouch. Weather can change quickly, so keep an eye on the forecast and be ready to return to shore if conditions worsen.

This year, Parliament saw the introduction of the Life Jackets for Children and Young Persons Bill, a Member’s Bill sponsored by Cameron Brewer, MP for Upper Harbour. This Bill proposes that all children under 15 years of age must wear a lifejacket on recreational craft six metres or less in length. It aims to close the gaps in current maritime rules, which leave lifejacket use largely to the discretion of the skipper. The Bill has strong support from Water Safety New Zealand, Maritime New Zealand, and Coastguard New Zealand.

The Bill is currently before the Transport and Infrastructure Select Committee, with submissions open until 11 December. If passed, it will create a consistent national standard and help prevent avoidable tragedies. I encourage you to read the Bill on the NZ Parliament website and consider making a submission.

I support efforts to strengthen water safety laws and promote education. I also urge parents and caregivers to supervise children closely near water and teach them basic safety skills.

This summer, let’s all do our part to keep our families and community safe. Respect the water, know your limits, and never take unnecessary risks. A day on the water should end with stories and smiles, not sorrow.

Lynne, Sally and I wish you a joyful festive season and a relaxing and safe summer. The electorate office will be closed from 22 December to 16

When National formed government, the country faced real headwinds; record high inflation, mortgage repayments crippling families, ram raids occurring daily, and too many young people leaving school without the basics. We promised to turn things around and we are.

Fixing the economy doesn’t happen overnight, but the signs of real progress are now clear. We’ve restored discipline to government spending, helping drive inflation down to less than half what it was under Labour. That’s allowed the Reserve Bank to cut interest rates nine times. For an average family refixing their mortgage today, that means savings of around $200 per week compared with late 2023.

Our economy is on the move, too. Exporters are thriving, with nearly a billion dollars in extra export earnings this year, and record numbers of Australian visitors boosting our tourism sector. Farmers and businesses are getting back on their feet as we cut red tape and get major projects underway faster.

On law and order, stronger Police powers, tougher sentencing, and a determined crackdown on gangs are delivering results. There are now 38,000 fewer victims of violent crime each year, youth offending has fallen by 16%, and ram raids have dropped by 85%. Communities are feeling safer, and that’s the kind of progress every New Zealander deserves.

Education is another area where we’re getting back to basics. Phones are banned in classrooms, every child now receives at least an hour a day of reading, writing, and maths, and structured literacy and numeracy are in place. Achievement is climbing again with the proportion of new entrants meeting expectations rising from 36% to 58% in just two years, and the number exceeding expectations doubling. These results give real hope for the next generation.

In health, we’re hiring more doctors and nurses, delivering more surgeries and cancer treatments, and reducing wait times. Here in the Waikato, the new medical school will help ensure more Kiwis can access timely, quality care, close to home.

We’re continuing to invest in the future. That includes 17 new Roads of National Significance, like the extension of the Waikato Expressway to Piarere. This is part of an infrastructure pipeline now worth $275 billion – delivering schools, hospitals, homes, and better-connected communities nationwide.

We’re also pressing ahead with major reforms, like the complete replacement of the Resource Management Act, overhauling council structures to drive efficiency, and changes to building and earthquake strengthening rules.

Our plan is working. For two years, we’ve been focused on fixing the basics and it’s paying off. The future is looking stronger, brighter, and full of opportunity. Together, we’re building a better country. - Tim van de Molen, MP for Waikato.

• Appointments available up to 24th December 2025

• Appointments available up until 24 December 2025

• Online appointments available the week of 12 January 2026

• Payment due late January 2026

• No payment required until after completion

Waikato District Council – Community Boards Update

Community boards have completed their inaugural meetings and new leadership has been confirmed.

Ngaaruawaahia elected Kiri Morgan as Chair and Venessa Rice as Deputy, while Taupiri appointed Rochelle Spragg as Chair and Sharnay Cocup-Hughes as Deputy. Huntly discussions centred on local priorities including Lake Puketirini, roading and water infrastructure improvements.

In Tuakau, the board received proposals for new road names shaped by mana whenua input and local heritage considerations.

Upcoming Meetings

1. Raglan Community Board meets Wednesday, 03 December 2025

2. Tuakau Community Board meets Monday, 09 February 2026

3. Ngaaruawaahia Community Board meets Tuesday, 10 February 2026

4. Rural–Port Waikato Community Board meets Thursday, 12 February 2026

5. Taupiri Community Board meets Monday, 16 February 2026

6. Huntly Community Board meets Tuesday, 17 February 2026 by Ganga Sudhan

Raahui Pookeka Comes Together for United Christmas Parade and Festival

Kiaora e te whaanau — this year marks an exciting new chapter for Raahui Pookeka, as Creative Huntly, Waahi Whaanui Trust and Huntly College join forces to host one united community Christmas celebration.

In previous years, Huntly East and Huntly West have each held their own festive events. For 2025, organisers have combined their efforts to create one large-scale celebration, bringing together tamariki, rangatahi, kaumaatua and whaanau from across the region. The result is the Raahui Pookeka Christmas Parade and Festival, set to take place on Saturday, 6 December, from 11:00am to 4:00pm at Huntly College.

The day will begin with the Huntly Christmas Parade, starting in the town centre and travelling along Main Street, continuing down Tumate Mahuta Drive, and crossing the Tainui Bridge before

arriving at Huntly College. Once the parade concludes, floats will remain on display at Huntly College until 4:00pm, where judging and prize announcements will take place.

Following the parade, Waahi Whaanui Trust will host their annual Christmas Festival on the college sports grounds. Families can look forward to an afternoon filled with free activities, including bouncy castles, face art, tamariki games, photo opportunities with Hana Kookoo, a foam party, and a range of kai stalls and live performances.

This collaborative kaupapa reflects the shared aspirations of the three hosting organisations — fostering whanaungatanga, kotahitanga, community pride and cultural expression. With easy access from both the Tainui Bridge and the walking bridge, organisers anticipate close to 2,000 people attending this year’s celebration.

We come to the end of the three year term of the current committee and elections come up on 3rd Dec.

Most of the current committee are standing for another term, but I am stepping down after chairing this term and being on the committee for 12 years – it’s a good time for new people to take TK forward. I have enjoyed chairing such a good committee and achieving good outcomes for Te Kauwhata.

I am pleased with what we have achieved as a group of eight volunteers who put effort into a number of areas to improve our community and our facilities. Some of the areas include;

1. Improvements in the Domain –including paths and helping with the set up of the Community Garden. The Domain is also central to the old and the new parts of Te Kauwhata and will have future developments such as more paths and a fitness trail.

2. Forming closer liaison between the groups in TK – Community House, Volunteer services, TK Events Committee the A&P show and working with Police to provide better camera

surveillance in TK.

3. We have also listened to community feedback and helped with the objection and appeals against the off licence in Main Rd – and we are awaiting the High Court’s decision on 3 Main Rd, which was heard in September.

The newly elected committee will develop future plans and will review the Blue Print and the identity plans for TK – completed in this term with community input , and determine the projects they will take forward to enhance TK.

The Whangamarino wetlands walkway from Saleyards Road is partially complete and needs an agreement with Kiwi Rail to give access to complete the walkway. This will be part of TK walkways and will showcase the wetlands and be extended in the future to a perimeter walkway around the end of the Blunt Rd land.

Thanks to the Committee for all your help over the last three years. I think we have achieved a lot for TK and I wish you well in improving and enhancing TK for our community now and in the future.

New Steel Mill Manufacturing Plant Hopes to Find Home at Hampton Downs

Source:

Aproposed

steel manufacturing plant has just received the tick of approval this month, from the government’s Fast Track process.

But in the next step of the process, the Hampton Downs project has been referred to an Expert Panel to determine the operational and consent details and whether, or under which conditions, it might proceed.

The Green Steel project outlines an application to build and operate a structural steel manufacturing plant on 53 hectares of land next to Hampton Downs. It proposes to use recycled scrap metal (such as cars) sourced from across NZ and shredded on site.

It aims to make steel production sustainable in NZ

Although

using scrap metals rather than iron ore or iron sands. Currently all scrap metal is exported, not reused in NZ.

Initial information from the Fast Track site indicates the steel manufacturing plant proposes to include a scrap steel shredding plant, electric furnaces to produce structural steel, buildings, access roads and hardstand areas as well as screening and planting to mitigate noise and visual effects.

It is planned to sit on land bounded by Springhill Corrections facility, the landfill, Hampton Downs motorsport track and the Waikato Expressway. The application indicates that the project will create up to 200 new jobs for the area.

Te Kauwhata A&P Show 2025 —

Where Community Comes Alive

There’s something special about an A&P Show — the way it captures the heart of a rural community, the pride of our growers and makers, and the simple joy of families spending a day together. This year, the Te Kauwhata A&P Show is set to be bigger, brighter, and more memorable than ever, bringing together everything we love about our town in one vibrant weekend.

Across December 13th and 14th, the Domain Showgrounds will come alive with a fantastic blend of entertainment, local talent, family activities, and classic A&P charm. From champion livestock to homegrown produce, equestrian events to indoor competitions, the show provides a chance to celebrate the skills, passions, and heritage that make Te Kauwhata so unique.

Saturday is all about the buzz — live entertainment, food trucks, market stalls, games, inflatables and fun rides filling the grounds with colour and excitement. It’s the

perfect day for whaanau to explore, taste, play and enjoy. On Sunday, equestrian takes the spotlight, offering spectators a chance to see riders of all ages competing with skill, spirit, and sportsmanship.

Visitors can also look forward to the TK Scouts Pinewood Derby, Archery, the NZ Strongman Highland Backyard Games, and plenty of surprises that make our show truly one-of-a-kind. Every corner of the grounds will offer something to see, do, or discover. And lets not forget the STAMPORAMA competition, make your way around the show grounds collecting stamps to go in the draw to win a $50 voucher thanks to New Zealous Music.

Above all, the Te Kauwhata A&P Show is a celebration of us — our people, our stories, and the community we’re proud to call home. Whether you’re a local, a newcomer, or just passing through, we invite you to join us for a weekend of connection, culture, and country spirit.

Come along, bring the whaanau, and experience the magic of Te Kauwhata.

EAT ST Food Festival — A Feast at the Heart of the TK A&P Show

G et ready to follow your nose to the tastiest corner of the Te Kauwhata A&P Show — the EAT ST Food Festival is back, serving up bold flavours, local favourites, and delicious discoveries for the whole whaanau.

This year’s EAT ST brings together an exciting lineup of food trucks, and sweettreat creators, offering everything from smoky BBQ and gourmet burgers to fresh

kai, global street food, and irresistible desserts.

Whether you’re grabbing a bite between events or settling in for a full foodie experience, there’s something here to satisfy every craving.

EAT ST isn’t just about the food — it’s about atmosphere. Think great music, vibrant energy, and the buzz of people gathering to share good kai and even better company.

Bring your appetite and come taste the best of TK. EAT ST is ready to serve you!

Ngāruawāhia’s First Christmas Tree Festival – A Celebration of Creativity and Community

This December, NGĀ ART is proud to launch the first ever Ngāruawāhia Christmas Tree Festival, an exciting new event that brings together creativity, connection, and festive spirit.

Supported by the Creative Communities Scheme, the festival invites everyone; children, youth, adults, kaumātua, schools, businesses, and community groups to design and decorate themed Christmas trees for public display.

From 5–19 December, NGĀ ART will be transformed into a magical indoor forest featuring more than 20 fullsized trees and 20 mini trees, each uniquely decorated

to reflect the imagination and identity of its creators. Expect themes ranging from traditional Christmas and Kiwiana to recycled materials and personal hobbies, plus a special category for NGA Tiny Trees.

The festival opens on Friday 5 December at 6pm alongside the NGĀ ART End of Year Night Market, creating a lively hub of over 30 stalls for with their arts, crafts, food and entertainment. Throughout December, NGĀ ART invite you to enjoy Christmas workshops and festive activities for all ages.

Let’s make this a new tradition for Ngāruawāhia, celebrating whānau, culture, and the magic of Christmas together!

Calling for festival letterboxes in Te Kauwhata & Districts

Toi Ako Artspace are teaming up with St Andrew’s Presbyterian to host a Christmas Letterbox Competition for the third year. The competition is free to enter if you live in Te Kauwhata and districts (Glen Murray, Ohinewai, Rangiriri, Waerenga, Hampton Downs, Meremere).

The goal is to add a touch of festivity to the streets and share a little Christmas joy with your neighbours. To enter decorating your letterbox, taking some photographs from different angles and email them to artstekauwhata@gmail.com before Dec 18. There will be pries for:

Most Festive – reflecting the joy of Christmas

Most Creative – thinking outside the box in concept or construction

Decorated by Kids – designed and install with minimal adult help

We look forward to seeing what you come up with. Seasons greeting to all.

Christmas comes to Lakeside, Te Kauwhata

Once again there will be a double banger celebration of Christmas at Lakeside this year. Everyone is welcome to join in on Sunday 7 December. You will find the Toi Ako team on the streets from 2-4pm with their Chalky Christmas event and then head up to the retail area for a Family Christmas event til 6pm.

Lakeside is the perfect location for a bike ride or Sunday stroll so come along, enjoy the views, take a peek at the new waterfront playground (which may even be open) and enjoy a Chalky Christmas. Watch our artists at work, or grab some free chalk to add your own artwork or season’s greeting to the foot path. Our goal is to leave a trail of love and community that can be enjoyed for days to come (until it rains.)

Family Christmas at the shops is a great opportunity to sit down and relax on the lawn, soak up some good vibes, enjoy a free BBQ… and standby for a visit from Santa himself.

These events are possible thanks to Kainga Ora, Lakeside, Te Kauwhata and friends. Bring your sunscreen, water bottle and a smile.

Te Kauwhata Christmas Parade 2025 — A Celebration of Joy, Community & Christmas Magic

There’s nothing quite like the magic of Christmas in Te Kauwhata — kids bursting with excitement, and the whole community coming together to celebrate the spirit of the season. This year’s Te Kauwhata Christmas Parade as always will bring colour, creativity, and festive cheer to the heart of our town.

On parade day, the main street will transform into a festive wonderland as floats, performers, community groups, and local businesses showcase their Christmas spirit with pride. Expect dazzling decorations, bright costumes, laughter, music, and those moments of pure delight only a local parade can deliver. It’s a chance for everyone — young and old — to come out, wave, cheer, and feel part of something truly special.

Local schools, clubs, emergency services, and families have been hard at work crafting floats that reflect this year’s theme of togetherness, reminding us that Christmas is about connection, kindness, and celebrating the people who make our town feel like home, every entry helps create a parade full of heart and imagination.

And of course, no Te Kauwhata Christmas

and handing out free ice blocks at the end of the parade.

Enjoy festive activities, local stalls, food vendors and pumping music keeping the vibe high from 5-8pm and of course the chance to connect with friends and neighbours as we welcome the holiday season in true TK style.

The Te Kauwhata Christmas Parade is more than an event — it’s a celebration of our community, our families, and the magic we create when we come together. Join us and be part of the joy.

Road will be closed at some point in the afternoon, please check out the Waikato District Council website for times (these will also be posted on the Te Kauwhata

Merry Christmas

Our Huntly office will close at 5pm, Monday 15 December 2025 and reopen at 9am, Monday 12 January 2026.

Our Hamilton office will be open for queries and appointments from 9am, Monday 5 January 2026

TE KAUWHATA COLLEGE NEWS

HUNTLY COLLEGE NEWS

Te Kauwhata College Prizegiving 2025 Celebration of Success

Our annual Senior Prizegiving Awards ceremony was held on Thursday 30 October.

This was a wonderful event where we celebrated the achievements of our senior students over the past year.

In addition to honouring our students’ achievements, the attendees, including fellow students, whaanau, special guests

SENIOR PRIZEGIVING 2025 SPECIAL AWARDS

Ava Ruaporo - Overall Sportsperson of the Year 2025

Leikyn Masiloina-Future Leader of Tomorrow Award

Joseph Adams-The Leonard Manning Memorial Trophy for “Courage Under Fire”

Sitara Sadaruddin-The Wendy Hickey Memorial Trophy for Courage and Perseverance

Kasey Tila-Foster Family Cup

Arana-John Totorewa- He Toa Takitini Taonga (Taane)

Atarehia Hema- He Toa Takitini Taonga (Waahine)

Atarehia Hema-Whiunui Taonga

Alexis Gilmour-Science Citizenship Award

Tama Hart-The Jubilee Fairplay Award

Zane Wilson-Te Kauwhata College Staff Cup for All Round Effort and Citizenship in Year 11

Adyson Whitehead Sa-Te Kauwhata College Staff Cup for All Round Effort and Citizenship in Year 12

Cecilia Mhlauli-Berwick Family Cup

Alexis Gilmour-Outstanding Academic Maaori Student

Ben Wilson-The Blunt Family Cup for Citizenship

Xhyndril Bartido-Schollum Memorial Cup for Effort

Sway Tantingco-Driller Cup for Student Initiative (Seniors)

and staff, enjoyed exceptional performances from our dance and music students.

Special congratulations go to our Runner-up for Academic Excellence in Year 13, Xhyndril Bartido, and our Dux for 2025, Natasha Janthaphoree.

We wish our students who are leaving Te Kauwhata College this year all the best for their future plans.

Our major prize winners are listed here:

Kasey Tila & Harper Tuhimata - House Captain of the Year

Harper Tuhimata - Huntly Rotary Prize for Student Representative on the Board

SCHOLARSHIPS

Natasha Janthaphoree University of Waikato Te Paewai o Te Rangi Scholarship

Natasha Janthaphoree David Johnstone Charitable Trust Scholarship

Ryan Luke David Johnstone Charitable Trust Scholarship

Tabitha Mako University of Waikato Ko Te Tangata School Leaver Scholarship

Tabitha Mako Vice-Chancellor’s Access Waikato Scholarship

Sophie Riddell University of Waikato Ko Te

Tangata School Leaver Scholarship

Sway Tantingco David Johnstone

Charitable Trust Scholarship

Natasha Janthaphoree Rajan Babu Chemistry Scholarship

ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE AWARDS

Isaiah Kaiwai Second in Year 11

Jewel Shayne Diaz First in Year 11 and the Mitchell Cup for Excellence

Isobel Smart Second in Year 12

Adyson Whitehead Sa First in Year 12 and the Dawson Cup for Excellence

Xhyndril Bartido Proxime Accessit 2025

Natasha Janthaphoree DUX AWARD 2025

What an incredible evening! Our annual Celebration of Success Prizegiving, held on Thursday 13 November, was a resounding success and a true highlight of the school year.

The Hall was filled to capacity with proud parents, caregivers, and extended whaanau, creating an environment where whaanau were cheering for their whaanau, acknowledging their successes together.

The success of the evening was enhanced by the presence of our whaanau. Seeing your encouragement and pride uplifted every student who crossed the stage. Your support is the foundation upon which our students build their confidence and success, and we extend our heartfelt thanks for your ongoing commitment to their learning journey.

C E L E B R A T I O N

This event is our most important opportunity to pause and acknowledge the hard work, dedication, and talent of our students.

We celebrated achievement across the board—from the highest academic honours, to cultural, leadership and sporting participation and success. Every student recognised serves as an inspiration and a role model for our school and wider community.

Tuesday 18 November 2025 th

A special thank you also goes to our committed staff who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to organise the evening and ensure your whaanau achieved in the classroom. Thank you must go to our sponsors and supporters of the school. Without your support, the evening would not have been such a success.

Mafoa’aeata

Top Year 9 student for 2025: Corban Tau

Runner Up in Year 10 award: Korban Moana

Top Year 10 student for 2025: Isabella Harbottle

The Most improved and the Runner up for the top Alternative Education: Callum Kupenga-Day

Top Alternative Education student for 2025: William Thomas

Runner Up in Year 11 award: Marley Barnes

The top Year 11 for 2025 is JOINTLY

Wirihana Kemp

Runner Up in Year 12 for 2025 is JOINTLY awarded: Nanshika Bahadur & Alexander Harbottle

Top Year 12 student for 2025: Ka-leena Tuhakaraina

2025 Mungall Award & Paki Award: Alexander Harbottle

Glengarry Huntly College House Shield: Waikare

Rosemary Curle Memorial Award: Timmy Petero

Proxime Accessit: Elainne Frances Sidron

Huntly College Dux: Nandini Bahadur

Capturing the Moments That Matter Most

W hat began as a self-taught passion project in 2018 has become a full-time creative career for Waikato photographer Mariska Balvert. Her newest body of work, Delicate Details, reflects both motherhood and an eye for the small, intimate features that define early childhood. The Chatter catches up with Mariska:

Tell us about your background as a photographer.

I created MJ Photography back in 2018, after spending years teaching myself photography through my Nanas camera, online courses and years of playing around with editing platforms. In 2018 I started selling images that I had taken, I did not offer family photography until 2020.

It wasn’t until my son came along In 2024 I started turning my side business into my job to make a living for my family while still spending 80% of my time with them. What subjects have you focused on?

Since my sons were born I shifted my focus from lifestyle photography - which felt like such a broad spectrum - to my new niche “Delicate Details”, a fine art style photography that brings me so much joy and captures so much in such a close up highly detailed photograph.

Tell us about your new work and what has inspired you .

Delicate Details came to me while working on farm, Now as a mum of two under two I am trying my hardest everyday to remember every single detail about my

boys as they grow, just trying to keep them as babies for just a little bit longer,

This is a service designed to capture our children, the little things that we often overlook,

How soft their eyes are,

The way their baby rolls sit,

Their little mannerisms.

All the little things captured, up close, individually so we never have to regret not studying them closer.

Delicate Details is as the title says, Images of the delicate details, presented mainly in black and white to enhance the contours and bumps of the skin

How do you balance your photography with parenting and life on the farm ?

I absolutely love being able to stay home with my babies but still be able to work, I work primarily on farm during calving season, during calving season the weather isn’t great which means photography sessions slow down, the rest of the year I

Huntly Garden Circle November Report

Elizabeth “Welcomed 30 members and one new member Collen, to our meeting on the 6th of November.

There were 23 entries in the competition, showcasing beautiful spring flowers. The sales table was abundant with many treasures to purchase.

It is time to get those wasp traps out in the garden while eggs are hatching.

Several members enjoyed a garden ramble in Te Aroha between meetings.

Knee pads at Warehouse are only $10 and good value.

Lesley bought an array of herbs for us to identify and discuss. They included a good mixture of common and not so known herbs, it was interesting identifying new herbs and how learning how they are used in cooking.

Raffle results, prizes beautiful plants from Val, 6 draws.

Judy B, Colleen E, Denise L Anne B Shannette, Ngarie, Judy H.

Competition results

Bloom 1st Elizabeth, 2nd Peggy, 3rd Audrey.

Vegetables 1st Audrey, 2nd Gloria, 3rd Denise Fruit 1st Audrey, 2nd Gloria, 3rd Val

Preserves 1st Elizabeth, 2nd Denise.

Garden Visit Our visit to Glenda Kimptons beautiful park-like garden was a delight, we were able to savour the expanse, variety of planting and all the beautiful

rooms she has created. Such an inspiration from one who did not like gardening 11 years ago to the paradise now.

Upcoming events

• Next meeting on Thursday 4th December Christmas meeting, Christmas potluck lunch followed by visit to 3 gardens, Pat then Peters Garden on Old Taupari Road then on to Leighs Garden in Ngaruawhaia.

• Our Christmas Lunch is on the 11th of December at The Frankton workingman’s club.

Remember everyone is welcome to attend it’s a great time for socializing and sharing the love of gardening, you don’t need to have a beautiful garden to join. Any queries ring Elizabeth Johnson 0220741223.

just offer help when required to my fiancé, Farm life with the boys feels seamless but I definitely couldn’t do it with out my wrap carrier, my photography is mainly edited at night when both boys are sleeping but also during independent play and daytime naps, I love the change in my day getting to do different things but also including my kids in every aspect of my life.

What services do you offer and who might be interested ?

My services include - Delicate Details this session is perfect for any family, generally younger kids who are constantly changing to capture all the small details but

Huntly Fire Station call outs

15/11 14:31

Scrub fire, Paki St, Huntly.

16/11 20:01 Fire in the vicinity, Te Puroa Rd, Ngaruawahia.

17/11 15:12 Fire alarm activation, Paki St, Huntly.

18/11 04:15 Rubbish fire on roadside, Havana St, Huntly.

18/11 19:58 Rubbish bins on fire, Te Ohaki Rd, Huntly.

20/11 09:11 Medical call, cardiac arrest, Hakanoa St, Huntly.

not limited to pets

-Family Photography

Perfect for all families, all generations and ages

- business advertisement

Great for all businesses big and small, digital or in store

-Maternity

Made for all expectant families

How do people get in touch

People can get in touch via my website https://mjwaikatophotography.mypixieset. com/ Via Facebook @MJwaikato Or email mjbalvert@icloud.com

20/11 17:04 Fire alarm activation, Bridge St, Huntly.

21/11 17:28 Fire alarm activation, McDiamid Cres, Huntly.

23/11 14:01 Rubbish fire, Rotongaro Rd Rotongaro.

23/11 15:08 Car firewell involved, Lake Puketirini reserve, Huntly.

24/11 18:37 Fire in landfill, Rotowaro Rd, Huntly.

25/11 05:58 Rubbish fire, Gavin Pl, Huntly.

David Horrox Station officer Huntly fire brigade

The History of League with Rex Hohaia # 28:

BILLY BOY RAEHI a.k.a. William ‘Pop’ Raihe a.k.a. Taniwharau Man of Steel

That heading may have thrown you a curve ball whanau but rest assured we speak of a single identity here, and when it comes to one of my favourite topics, rugby league, this bloke sits squarely in the category of unsung hero from a bygone era that certain millennials refer to as boomers.

The Second World War had just about run its course when on 25 April 1945, while travelling back from Cambridge in his mothers womb, Billy Boy Raihe decided it was time to make his grand entrance. Birth certificate records show Ngaruawahia as place of birth but more specifically it was his grandmothers residence where the event took place. Common among Maori of that era, home births were as safe and well practised as maternity hospital deliveries. With a whangai sibling already in the Raihe household at Waahi Paa, young Billy Boy soon fell into line and settled into the lifestyle of the time. School, after school, eat, sleep, repeat.

Huntly West, as the area became known, included a newly opened primary school (est. 1956) but it was to the well established Rakaumanga Native School (est. 1896), about two miles north of Waahi Paa in an area near the Huntly Power Station switchyard today, that the Raihe whanau of sister Ami and younger brothers Warren and Douglas attended daily lessons. Rakaumanga was a hot spot of whangai children which helped make regular attendance a breeze. Whanau names at Waahi Paa such as Haunui, Tomo, Raumati, Rawiri, Wanakore, Waikai, Morgan, Muru, Punakai and Wilson combined with Raihe to foster a friendly peaceful environment for tamariki to prosper. Interwoven into that fabric at the time was the sport of rugby league which is the topic of this bio.

Let me pose a simple question. Who is the one individual who has patronised Davies Park the most over its 85 year history?

Officially opened on Saturday 3 July 1937 with a curtain raiser between Ngaruawahia and Pukemiro and a main game of Huntly v Huntly South, Davies Park is not only a sports venue but more importantly a place where friendships and lifelong memories have been formed. William Pop Raihe would sit head and shoulders above any other living mortal in the number one spot. From the twinkle in his Dads eye back in 1945 to the old kaumatua who now sits in the grandstand following the fortunes of his beloved Taniwharau, he is the epitome of dedication to rugby league. Others may receive awards for unsung hero but let me rewind the clock.

I have used the line running around in my old mans ball bags before to illustrate the length of association I have had with Davies Park and the same principle applies to Pop and many others as we

move along the whakapapa lineage. Born to Maori parents Piroi Bill Raihe Snr and wife Tuhimanu Tupaea, father Bill was one of the pioneers of the first all Maori team in the area in the 1930s named Kia Ora (see photo), followed by the establishment of the Taniwharau team in 1944. A regular through the Davies Park gates along with his good mate King Koroki Mahuta, Bill often had young William hitch a ride in the back seat of the black car, the symbol of royalty back in the day. Sometimes those games involved international teams. The 1955 match between NZ Maori and France (see photo) attracted a near record crowd which included ten year old Billy Boy. King Koroki remained a regular spectator at Davies Park for many years, following the playing exploits of his friends son as he moved into senior ranks.

The blue and white of Huntly United was Pops first foray into junior rugby league (see photo) and Huntly College soon became a familiar haunt. The three Rs, rugby league and sheilas seemed to be superseding the school and after school timetable of his childhood. It soon became apparent that future employment needed serious consideration. Good money was being made at the freezing works and in underground mining but a trade training apprenticeship was the preferred parental persuasion.

The Department of Maori Affairs launched a nation wide Maori Trade Training Scheme in 1959 and many of his Huntly College mates had been approached to enrol. A couple of years later Pop and Ernest Maru were seconded to the Maori Boys Hostel in Dominion Road, Auckland, and a five year 10,000 hour carpentry apprenticeship began. Sport also followed him north when

a chance meeting with Clarry Whaanga from the Manukau Rugby League Club saw Pop and college mate Clyde Mook Tupaea (see photo) turn out in the Auckland competition for a short time.

On the job training took him to construction sites in Auckland, Hamilton and Te Kuiti. A dabble on the dark side occurred while living in Hamilton when Doug Pene of the newly formed Melville Rugby Club invited him to sign up. Mahi and hakinakina were now big parts of his life. Work contracts were compulsory for apprentices but when he was told he had a contract in Waitara he put his foot down and refused to go. Fortunately Max Fletcher Builders in Huntly had a vacancy and foreman Sam Scobie Ponga convinced the powers that be that Pop could complete his time in Huntly. Once out of his time and free of the powers that be the meagre apprentice wage needed fixing, so off to the State Coal Mine office in Rotowaro he went and a lifetime in underground mining followed. That was until a certain surplus to requirement letter arrived and half of Huntly went into mourning. Thankfully Winnies Gold Card arrived at the same time.

I coined the title Taniwharau Man of Steel to illustrate the many hats this gentleman has worn in the game of rugby league in the Waikato. Pop has been a shining light for no reason other than his dedication to a sport that many have taken part in, from whipper snapper spectator to schoolboy player to senior player to coach to administrator and beyond.

Through the 1970s Pop led a crash hot Taniwharau senior team as player coach. Previous coach, ex NZ Maori Bill Paki, along with 1959 NZ Schoolboy Kiwi John Hona approached Pop to take on the role in the mid 60s. In a two horse race with future 1970 Kiwi Don Parkinson, Pop won a 13 to 11 vote and began a coaching career that eventually covered all grades for what seemed like a thousand years. The 1970s senior team went on to surpass Ngaruawahias record of six consecutive championships from 1963 to 1968 and set a new Waikato Rugby League record of seven from 1971 to 1977. It is a record that will be very hard to beat.

Outside footy Pop has for years been the main maintenance man at Waahi Paa and the main designer, architect,

draftsman and builder at the Taniwharau Club House which could be pulled down soon, ouch. He worked for years at various royalty residences including Turangawaewae and other marae and married Joyce Teparu (deceased). They raised three children, Tana, Moeroa and Tania, and he is now Koro to all his mokopuna.

They say a picture speaks a thousand words and the enclosed montage speaks volumes about the man we all know as Pop. Of all the individuals who have come through the playing ranks of the famous Taniwharau Rugby League Club from Kiwis to Kiwi triallists to NZ Maori reps to Waikato provincial players, William Pop Raihe sits at the top as the most deserving and humble recipient of a thousand accolades. I remember coming into senior footy as a fresh faced 16 year old on school holidays from St Stephens in 1966 with school mate and future 1969 Kiwi Trevor Patrick. Pop was player coach and his words and actions still ring true today. He led from the front and never expected anyone to do anything he could not or would not do. Everyone get in front of me he would yell as we ran up Te Kauri hill or did reps on the old Rakaumanga School field and he would be setting a cracking pace.

And as for the answer to my own question, who has patronised Davies Park the most over its 85 year history?

Well, if you have come this far in my bio you already know the answer.

Oh, and that name Billy Boy Raehi, that is the name on his birth certificate and his NZ drivers licence. Just thought I would clear that up.

Researched by Rex Hohaia 8 December 2022

Footnote: Nephew Willie Rangi told me he was proud to be named after Pop William and that Pop first played senior football at age 12. I asked Pop for the inside bully and he said he used to travel with the players and one day the Chief Charlie Mahuta took his bus to Putaruru for a game. The team was short and captain Sati Toka told him to put on a jersey and stand on the wing. He told the players not to pass the ball to Pop but Pop being a tautohe ran straight into the action and called for the ball anyway. After the game Sati told him not to tell his old man. Word soon got around to Piroi and after a korero both Sati and Pop were told never to do that again.

Te Kunenga o te Ao Tikanga Level 4 Enrol now twoa.ac.nz

Brief History of St. Paul’s Church Huntly and its Bell - of St. Clements

The first Christian services in and around Huntly were held in marae and mission homes in the 1840s, with the first churches built of raupo. In the 1880s the people of Huntly decided to build a church, which led to the consecration of a 200 seat timber church on a section beside the railway line next to the current church. The land was donated by the Taupiri Coal Company. The church cost 352 pounds, a large sum during a nationwide depression, yet it opened debt free in 1894.

Tragedy struck in 1933 when a spark from a passing train ignited the wooden shingle roof. With no local fire brigade the community could do little but watch their church burn. May Lord, our much loved 90 year old parishioner, was baptised in that original timber church.

Just a year later Bishop Cowie, the first Bishop of the Diocese of Waikato, laid the foundation stone of the current church. The new building cost 1500 pounds. It is constructed of Huntly brick in a unique double brick cavity design with concrete reinforcing in the tower.

The church bell was originally from St Clements Church in London. Founded by Danish settlers in the 9th century, St Clements was rebuilt by Christopher Wren in 1682 after a fire, then gutted again during the Blitz in 1941. It was restored and reconsecrated in 1958 as the central church of the Royal Air Force. St Clements bells and fire have a long shared history.

St Pauls Huntly no longer met current earthquake codes. Securing the necessary engineering and architectural reports and District Council consents to meet modern safety standards began four years ago and required patient sustained effort, led particularly by Archdeacon Joyce Marcon, Priest in Charge, and Parish Administrator Wendy Mahon. As a Category 1 historic building, repairs had to be

unobtrusive with no visible changes. External scaffolding around the tower, required to allow continued use of the church, has now been removed and the beauty of the tower is visible again.

With the cost far exceeding parish resources, they also worked hard to secure donor funding from trusts and parishioners to support remediation that met architectural and heritage requirements. This ensured the builders understood the precise task before them.

We are grateful to God for all who contributed their professional expertise to ensure our church can continue its witness to the love and grace of God for at least the next century as it has for the past one. Present at the service were Waikato District Councillor David Whyte, conservator architect Graeme Burgess, Wendy Terryl, Priest in Charge of bells at the Cathedral of St Peter in Hamilton, and diocesan manager Ben Ferrier.

Bishop Philip Richardson, Bishop of the Diocese of Waikato Taranaki, led the dedication prayer. Refreshments followed the service, including the cutting of the rededication cake by senior parishioner May Lord.

Donors:

WEL Energy Trust

Genesis Energy

Lotteries Environment Heritage Fund

Kosoof and Sons, Huntly

Several Huntly parishioners

Te Kauwhata Anglican Parish

St Pauls Parish Friendship Circle

Bishop Philip Richardson, Bishop of Waikato Taranaki

Report by John Marcon

Photos by Antonio Savini

Sick of Litter? Here’s an Answer

If you’re tired of seeing litter around your town, then it might help to know that Waikato District Council operates a Community Litter Fund. This fund is a dedicated financial support initiative provided to help community groups, schools, sports clubs, and other organisations that run litter clean-up programmes. It helps ease the burden of costs associated with the responsible disposal of collected litter. It ensures that groups who take the initiative to improve and maintain the cleanliness of their local environment are not disadvantaged by the expense of disposing of the waste they gather.

Applications will be considered from community groups, schools, sports clubs and other organisations running litter clean-ups within the Waikato District.

The Community Litter Fund is strictly limited to covering the costs of litter disposal only. It does not include other expenses such as equipment, volunteer rewards, or transport.

You can apply online at https://www.waikatodistrict. govt.nz/services-facilities/community-development/ funding/community-litter-fund

Life Uncomplicated:

Reflections on work, life, and the little things that make a difference

This column reflects on the ideas we quietly live by – unpacking everyday tensions, decisions, and choices in ways that help us feel a little less alone. It doesn’t claim to offer answers but invites us to consider what’s worth holding on to.

The Weight of Too Much Choice

At first glance, having more people interested in a course than we can actually accommodate seems like a good problem to have. And for the most part, it is. But in recent months, I’ve found that this “good problem” has slowly turned into a quiet pressure –one that sneaks in and rearranges how I approach the work.

The programmes that I run here in the Waikato are designed to respond to each learner. There’s a deep satisfaction in being able to customise a learning journey, especially when people arrive with vastly different needs and backgrounds. But lately, with demand outpacing the available funding, I’ve found myself trying to weigh up which group is more “in need” or which audience is more “strategic” to enrol. I found myself spending more time thinking through the permutations than planning the sessions themselves.

In the language of logic and economics, this is known as the Paradox of Choice – the idea that when we have too many options, we can become paralysed or overly focused on making the “right” decision. As a result, we over-optimise, double-guess and spread ourselves too thin in the process.

In my case, I caught myself at times designing a broader, more centralised version of the course – something that could cover more ground with less tailoring. Efficient, yes. But energising? Not quite.

A Thought to Carry With Us?

The irony is that the more I tried to accommodate, the less I was able to truly serve the people right in front of me. And so, I’ve had to gently reset and re-centre on what I know works. First-in, first-served. Do what I can, with those I can, as well as I can. Not out of indifference to others but out of commitment to quality and depth.

It’s a reminder that fairness is not always about offering the same thing to everyone but offering our best in the moment to those who are ready and able to receive it. Ultimately, it is critical to recognise that choice is a gift, but too much choice (without anchors or clarity) can dilute our impact. The goal isn’t as much about doing more as it is about being present where it counts.

Ganga Sudhan enjoys finding small insights in everyday moments and sharing them as reflections on work, life, and the inbetweens. You can reach him at ganga@ rte.co.nz or find him on LinkedIn via the QR Code below to follow his latest musings.

CHRISTMAS HOURS 2025/2026

Christmas Hours 2024/2025

Back to normal from Monday 5th January onwards.

If you need a repeat prescription, we appreciate all requests coming in as soon as possible so we can be sure to have them processed in time for the holiday season

We are not booking routine appointments from 22nd December to 5th January, but we do have a team on site available for those with new or worsening illness or injury. Please email reception@tkhealth.co.nz or phone 07 826 3499 to be put on the triage list. If you need a repeat prescription, we appreciate all requests coming in as soon as possible so we can be sure to have them processed in time for the holiday season

We wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a safe and Happy New Year

From the Team at Te Kauwhata Health Centre

We wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a safe and Happy New Year

From the Team at Te Kauwhata Health Centre