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A. 156B Main St | Huntly 3700
Waikato District Council –Community Boards Update
Ganga Sudhan
With the inaugural meetings for the community boards now concluded, the dates have been set for 2026 when the six-weekly meetings will resume. Huntly and Raglan Boards will have a second meeting in 2025 to confirm their meeting dates for 2026.
Upcoming Meetings
1. Huntly Community Board meets Tuesday, 25 November 2025
2. Raglan Community Board meets Wednesday, 03 December 2025
3. Tuakau Community Board meets Monday, 09 February 2026
4. Ngaaruawaahia Community Board meets Tuesday, 10 February 2026
5. Rural–Port Waikato Community Board meets Thursday, 12 February 2026
6. Taupiri Community Board meets Monday, 16 February 2026
Community boards play a vital role in linking residents with Council decisions – they raise local concerns, propose improvements and advocate for their towns and rural communities.
Book your Christmas adverts in the Chatter today. Send greetings to your community and customers.
December issues
Dec 3rd - deadline to book space: Nov 25th
Dec 17th - deadline to book space: Dec 11th
Email us to secure space info@chatternews.co.nz
Tim’s News
Here in our awesome North Waikato community, we all want to support our family members, friends, neighbours, colleagues, and others when they’re ill. That’s why our National-led Government has been working hard to deliver better outcomes in the health sector for Kiwis, including providing better access to more medicines.
From 1 February 2026, New Zealanders will be able to receive 12-month prescriptions for their medicines, making it simpler and more convenient for patients to access the medicines they need. This will allow people with longterm, stable conditions to receive prescriptions of up to 12 months from their prescriber, giving patients greater certainty and freeing up doctors’ time for other patients by reducing the number of appointments needed to renew routine prescriptions. Patients will continue to collect their repeats from the pharmacy as usual but will no longer need to return to their doctor each time for a new script. This could save patients up to $105 per year in reduced GP fees and will make a real difference for people managing long-term conditions such as asthma, diabetes, epilepsy, and high blood pressure.
Faster access to medicines has been a priority for this government with the Medicines Amendment Bill passing its third reading which will allow medicines to be approved within 30 days if the product has been approved from two recognised overseas jurisdictions. Kiwis shouldn’t have to wait for medicines other similar countries already have. This policy creates common-sense efficiency that costs nothing, and can shave months off the approval process, leading to more New Zealanders having access to the medicines they need to live a fulfilling life. Nurse practitioners will also have greater prescribing powers within their scope of practice, improving continuity of care for patients, particularly in rural and aged care settings.
I’m proud to be a part of a government has a strong focus on improving health outcomes for Kiwis. Across the country, more patients are being seen sooner, getting faster diagnoses, and accessing the care they need. We have achieved shorter stays in emergency departments with 73.9% of patients admitted, treated or discharged within six hours, up from 71.2% last year. Wait times for specialist appointments are down with 6.6% fewer patients waiting more than four months for elective treatment and 3.8% for first specialist assessments – the largest improvement in quarterly data across all health targets.
Prioritising healthcare for people in need and delivering better outcomes for kiwis will positively impact many families here in North Waikato, and wider, across New Zealand. Should you wish to share your views on an issue, or reach out for my support, please feel welcome to contact my Waikato Electorate Parliamentary Service team on 0800 GET TIM (0800 438 846) or email Tim.vandeMolenMP@ parliament.govt.nz. I’m regularly in all the communities around the electorate and look forward to connecting with you. Tim van de Molen – MP for Waikato.
Tim.vandeMolenMP@parliament.govt.nz 0800 GET TIM (0800 438 846) TimvandeMolenWaikato
• Appointments available up to 24th December 2025
• Appointments available up until 24 December 2025
• Online appointments available the week of 12 January 2026
• Online appointments available the week of 12 January 2026
• Payment due late January 2026
• No payment required until after completion
the cover: Waikato District Council’s new Mayor, Aksel Bech. Full story on page 3.
Tim van de Molen Your MP for Waikato
Chatter Chats to Waikato’s New Mayor
The Chatter sat down with newlyelected Waikato District Council Mayor Aksel Bech; although tight for time in his meeting-packed first fortnight; here’s what he said.
You won by an unprecedented majority, what does this mean for you?
More than anything I take this as mandate – residents and ratepayers want to see changes. And the majority says “get on with it” and that’s exactly what we will do!
Why do you think so many people voted for you?
Right across the District, and more than anything, the unaffordability of rates was the number one issue. We’ve now heard that rates is a prime driver of inflation in NZ -and along with rising costs of insurance, fuel and groceries people just needed to see rates affordability as a major focus of council. I also hope my prior experience as Deputy Mayor and focus on strengthening community empowerment was part of people’s decision!
Your campaign slogan was a challenge - ‘for rates sake”; can you expand on that?
It’s an acknowledgement that all council spending has to be reviewed with a view of increased affordability. We have to look at the way in which services are delivered – with a focus on increased shared services with our neighbouring councils who do the same thing for their residents as we do. And we must make sure we are actually delivering what our people need and can afford to pay for.
Ultimately rates must go up by less than household incomes or we will continue to go backwards. That’s no easy task and won’t happen overnight -but we can’t have rate increases hurting the very people we mean to serve. And we are here to deliver to our ratepayers, not to treat them as a bank.
And what about improving community participation; how’s that going to work?
I truly believe that those that live in a community know that community best. Not me and certainly not our MP’s down in Wellington; it’s locals who know their own places and spaces the best.
So let’s give as much decision-making power as possible to those communities, and I ‘m confident they will do a better, quicker and cheaper job than anyone else could.
Right from the get-go we will start delegating, to the local Ward Councillors working alongside their community committees and boards, the ability to decide things like new road names (in subdivisions), renewal of community facility leases (like club rooms on council land etc), and distribution of discretionary funding as seed or smaller project starter funds without the need to go back to Council for further permissions.
And what projects get done is of course decided by community itself. Let’s start there and see how much further we can go with that!
Realistically, you need time to get your councillors aligned and up to speed. But what can we expect to see before the next rates decisions in May next year?.
True, but we do have just three new councillors, with 10 returning, so the job is a little easier than you might expect. And we are all acutely aware of the challenges around affordability that we face, so there’s already good alignment.
By May 2026 I am working to see more shared services announced with consequent savings in staffing costs. Expect a thorough review in how we operate with a focus on more delegation.
And expect to see a review of all deferred capital projects and immediately planned ones to ensure we are looking at the right priorities for our communities. It is my hope we can stop these run-away rates in their tracks; but I know it won’t be easy. We’ve got some hard decisions to bring back to communities, and that’s where your feedback is crucial. We’ll also be working to make that feedback simpler for you.
If you had one thing to say to Waikato district residents, what would that be?
Thank you for your mandate and belief we can work out way to greater community say in the things that matter AND greater rates affordability. I, and my councillors, take that very seriously and we will be putting all our energies towards that. It might not happen immediately, but I can assure you it will be the litmus test for everything we do in looking for greater efficiencies within the council that will result in better outcomes for our communities
Finally, you have teenage children; how’s this workload going to affect your family life?
Our youngest is finishing school this year, with just exams to go, then off to Canterbury for University next year. Our son is already at Uni also and our eldest daughter working in mental health support at Waikato Hospital – so actually, my wife Susan and I are about to become empty nesters!
In that sense, taking on the role of mayor comes at the right time for us as a family – and I look forward to giving it the time it needs without being conscious of the kids needing me at home….because they won’t be home anyway!
To those who voted for me, thank you. And to those who didn’t – or didn’t vote at all- be assured my councillors and I will be working hard to make real changes to make Waikato a place everyone can be proud to call home
Mayor Aksel and his daughters at his inauguration ceremony.
Creative Huntly Artists The Spotlight Series: Mary Righton
T
he Spotlight is Creative Huntly’s online video series, highlighting the under-the-radar talent right here in Raahiu Pookeka. Visit facebook. com/creativehuntly to hear Mary talk about her love of music, up now.
Mary Righton is living proof in Huntly that it’s possible to learn new tricks anywhere, at any age.
Mary’s entire life is different to what she once thought it would look like. Once performing as the lead of staged operas in London, she’s now in Huntly, recording original contemporary folk-inspired songs from home.
It wasn’t, at first, a change she had planned. Difficult events in her life meant she had to move down from where she was in Auckland.
“When I first arrived here there was a lot of to-ing and fro-ing, having family in Auckland. And I still go back once a fortnight, maybe once a month,” Mary said.
“But now I’m trying to get more involved in things that are happening in Huntly.”
And it’s growing on her more everyday, Mary said. The community spirit, the people, and the art that is more than alive here.
“I’m finding that I’m getting more and more fulfillment just from being here. And I’m trying to branch out and really get to know the Huntly people.”
Mary is trained as a classical singer, a soprano. She studied in London at the Guildhall School of Music & Drama and went on to star and understudy in operatic shows such as Madame Butterfly.
As the years since her training and career in London go by, she said she has had to face the truth that she can no longer compete
the same way in the world of classical and operatic singing.
But the wonderful thing about music is that there is so much of it to explore.
“I’m interested in trying to learn to make my voice less operatic because as I started to grow a little bit older I realised that it was pretty tough competing with 20 and 30 year olds,” Mary said.
“I really like all sorts of music, jazz and rock. I’ve become more and more interested in not just finding singing artists, but starting to try and write my own songs. So that is some new learning for me.”
At the end of the day, singing is the important thing, Mary said.
“Singing is about making connections. It’s about communicating, and it’s about trying to give people permission to feel their feelings.”
Mary uses a MIDI keyboard and her laptop with music recording programme Garageband to record the songs she’s writing. She takes inspiration from a diverse range of artists such as Joni Mitchell, Led Zeppelin, Sandy Denny, and Seal.
She plans to eventually upgrade to a paid recording software, but is for now doing wonders with the free Garageband.
“I’ve been experimenting with it, and there’s all sorts of useful things you can do like mute tracks to listen to other ones,” she said.
One song she’s working on is called Ocean Dream, a ballad she wrote when she was missing the ocean.
Even with the exciting new genres she is adding to her tool belt, Mary still reminisces fondly on her time performing in the opera.
“I have some wonderful memories such as performing the Verdi Requiem with the Suffolk Symphony Orchestra. I had a huge amount of fun,” she said.
These days she teaches music and drama at primary and intermediate schools to “pass on how she has been helped in the past”.
“I’m just trying to encourage the kids to work together and create little performances, and I’ve been teaching a bit of songwriting, hence I’ve been getting into Garageband and songwriting myself.”
Huntly’s First Community Christmas Dinner – A Celebration of
T his December, the Huntly community will come together in the spirit of aroha for the first-ever Community Christmas Dinner, hosted by Manaaki Tangata Trust 3700.
The free dinner will be held on Tuesday 2nd December, with doors opening at 4:00 pm for the Kiddies Korner (children must be accompanied by an adult).
Dinner will be served from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints Hall, Riverview Road (ramp entrance only).
The evening will be filled with good kai, laughter, connection, and festive cheer for all ages.
The kaupapa behind this event is simple — no one misses out on that festive feeling.
Chairperson Serena Lisa Neho says,
Whānau, Aroha and Togethernes
The Christmas Dinner forms part of Manaaki Tangata Trust 3700’s wider mission to uplift local whānau through three key services:
Monthly Community Dinners
24/7 Emergency Food Hub (launching early 2026)
Mobile Pantry Service
These initiatives all share one purpose — to stand with the community, not over it, and to ensure that every household has access to food, connection, and dignity.
manaakitangata@yahoo.com 021 148 4282
Follow Manaaki Tangata Trust 3700 on Facebook for updates and ways to tautoko.
Let’s make this a Christmas to remember — full of warmth, laughter, and Huntly pride.
He pērā tonu — nā reira he tūturu.
It is what it is — that’s why it’s real.
“This is about bringing our community together as one — sharing a meal, making memories, and making sure everyone walks away with a smile.”
Artist Mary Righton talks about her passions on Creative Huntly’s spotlight series - available to view on their facebook page.
Skate, Culture, Art, Unity and Community Shine at SKATEfest 2025
The Te Kauwhata Village Green came alive on Saturday November 1st, as more than 100 people gathered for SKATEfest 2025 — a vibrant celebration of skate culture, creativity, and community spirit.
From the very first ollie to the last high five, the event truly stood to its vision of skate, culture, art, unity and community. The atmosphere was buzzing with energy, laughter, and encouragement as tamariki and teens took turns rolling, learning, and showing off their skills.
One of the highlights was the growing number of female skateboarders hitting the park — a fantastic sight that showcased how inclusive and inspiring the skate scene in Te Kauwhata has become.
The Toi Ako Art Station was another crowd favourite, where creative minds designed and built the first-ever SKATEfest mascots — each one representing a unique personality that reflected the heart of the event.
The day featured several competitions including Best Trick, Game of Skate, and Game of Scoot, with prizes handed out to winners across the board. Fudz (Waerenga) landed the Best Trick and took home a brand-new skate deck, while PG, an OG skateboarder from the Hibiscus Coast, won the Game of Skate and scored a new tee. Tuks (Papakura) took out the Game of Scoot, choosing a Bluetooth speaker as his prize.
A special shoutout goes to Little Tasty Food Truck for keeping everyone fuelled throughout the day with their delicious eats.
Te Kauwhata Lions Keep Main Road Planters Flourishing
Te Kauwhata’s Main Road planter boxes are looking blooming lovely at this time of year — thanks to the dedicated volunteer work of the Te Kauwhata Lions.
It was also a treat to have Corbyn Williams (Auckland) and his whaanau in attendance. Corbyn, a respected figure in the NZ skate scene, was there in full dad mode — supporting his kids as they pushed through challenges and celebrated every win. One standout moment came when Fudz repeatedly attempted a trick on the rail, finally landing it to a roar of cheers and applause that sent good vibrations right across the park.
None of this would have been possible without the continued support of Lakeside (Kāinga Ora), whose funding and belief in community initiatives help make events like SKATEfest a reality for Te Kauwhata.
“The number of skateboarders we’ve seen around town since SKATEfest has been awesome,” says Kris from New Zealous Music, the organiser behind the event. “Seeing our local skatepark in use and those smiles all around — that’s what it’s all about.”
As the boards are packed away and the memories replay, one thing’s certain: SKATEfest 2025 was a huge success — and we can’t wait to see what’s in store for SKATEfest 2026.
Our MC Shady Tupu (Hori with a Story) kept the crowd hyped and the energy flowing, with Mieka from Happy Skate School co-hosting during the competition segments. The four-hour event flew by in what felt like minutes, with so many moments of encouragement, celebration, and pure joy. The sound of boards hitting the concrete, cheers from onlookers, and high fives all around painted a perfect picture of community in motion.
For many years, this communityminded group has quietly and without fuss dug, planted, replanted, weeded, and watered the planter boxes — even building new ones to replace those that had fallen apart over time.
Local Lion John Marcon was recently spotted hard at work, clearing weeds and offering a few encouraging words to the plants. He says volunteers are always welcome — contact details for the Lions can be found on the noticeboard on Main Road.
At this time of year, the Lions are also looking for “plant guardians” — locals who can help by emptying their water bottles or bringing a little extra water to the planters during hot weather.
“We also welcome any donations of small flowering plants,” says John. “We’ve previously planted parsley and herbs, and like to think a handful of them may have added a little extra flavour to some meals around town.”
Finding Connection in Te Kauwhata This Christmas
As the Christmas season draws near, this can be a difficult time for some people. At the Te Kauwhata Community House, there are a number of ways people can find support and companionship.
You are always welcome to drop in for a cup of tea or coffee and a friendly chat — the staff are attentive listeners and enjoy getting to know members of the community.
If you’re finding life a bit of a struggle, there are two support groups that meet every second Wednesday at 10.30am.
The first is the Cancer Support Group, for those living with cancer. Lively discussions are had about both the good and the not-so-good parts of the journey. Each person has the opportunity to contribute, listen, and learn from others.
The second is the Grieve & Grow Group, for those who have lost someone significant in their life. The group focuses on looking to the future while reflecting on the past — and despite the name, the atmosphere is often filled with laughter.
Recently, Te Kauwhata Community House hosted a special evening to honour and support partners caring for men facing serious health challenges. A small group of local women were treated to foot spas, face masks, fresh nail polish, and delicious platters of food. There was plenty of chatter, laughter, and tears as they shared experiences and built new connections with others who understood what they were going through.
The evening — sponsored by St Andrew’s Church, Debbie Newland Neuritmetics, Pumphouse Blooms, and Te Kauwhata Community House — was warmly received. Participants said they left feeling refreshed, supported, and heard. The group has decided to meet again in the New Year for another catchup over tea.
If you would like to join any of these support groups, please contact Te Kauwhata Community House on 07 826 4303.
New Walkway to Improve Safety in Te Kauwhata
Work is scheduled to begin this week on continuing the Travers Rd walkway construction in Te Kauwhata, with a likely two-week timeframe.
The provision of a walkway around this very popular circuit of approximately 5km was initially started and funded by the Te Kauwhata Community Committee more than a decade ago, in response to increasing numbers of locals using it as a handy fitness circuit..
It began as a small metalled pathway initially running from Te Kauwhata Rd down Travers Rd. It was to improve safety for the number of pedestrians, as well as children walking to school where winter fog often created safety and visibility issues.
Over the years the footpath has been upgraded to a wide concrete walkway, ending just past the top of the hill near Moorfield Road.
This next section will run from near Orchard Rd to connect up with Wayside Road, providing a safer environment for the many walkers, runners, dog walkers, mums with prams and kids on bikes.
The original plans were intended to bypass the very busy Te Kauwhata Rd from the roundabout, heading instead into the Waikare subdivision down Bragato Rd, also providing a shortcut from Wayside Rd to Travers Rd. Until the proposed subdivision along Te Kauwhata Rd is created, it is not clear whether this will also have a full footpath as well.
John Cunningham, retiring chair of the TK Community Committee says this walkway is a good example of how the community committee can create small but meaningful improvements for the community. “We appreciate the excellent walkways around Lakeside, and this walkway- along with others we have planned such as the Whangamarino wetland walkway- all add up to providing safer places for the community to exercise and enjoy the outdoors in Te Kauwhata.”
Calling for festive letterboxes Around the Districts
Work is scheduled to begin this week on continuing the Travers Rd walkway construction in Te Kauwhata, with a likely two-week timeframe.
The provision of a walkway around this very popular circuit of approximately 5km was initially started and funded by the Te Kauwhata Community Committee more than a decade ago, in response to increasing numbers of locals using it as a handy fitness circuit..
It began as a small metalled pathway initially running from Te Kauwhata Rd down Travers Rd. It was to improve safety for the number of pedestrians, as well as children walking to school where winter fog often created safety and visibility issues.
Over the years the footpath has been upgraded to a wide concrete walkway, ending just past the top of the hill near Moorfield Road.
This next section will run from near Orchard Rd to connect up with Wayside Road, providing a safer environment for the many walkers, runners, dog walkers, mums with prams and kids on bikes.
The original plans were intended to bypass the very busy Te Kauwhata Rd from the roundabout, heading instead into the Waikare subdivision down Bragato Rd, also providing a shortcut from Wayside Rd to Travers Rd.
Until the proposed subdivision along Te Kauwhata Rd is created, it is not clear whether this will also have a full footpath as well.
John Cunningham, retiring chair of the TK Community Committee says this walkway is a good
example of how the community committee can create small but meaningful improvements for the community.
“We appreciate the excellent walkways around Lakeside, and this walkway- along with others we have planned such as the Whangamarino wetland walkway- all add up to providing safer places for the community to exercise and enjoy the outdoors in Te Kauwhata.”
Te Kauwhata A&P Show Returns for its 71st Year of Fun and Community Spirit
Get ready, Te Kauwhata — the much-loved A&P Show is back for its 71st year, bringing two full days, the Te Kauwhata Domain on Saturday 13th will light up with entertainment, family fun, and local pride followed by a day of equestrian on Sunday 14th December including an array of Clydsdale and wagon pulling (open to the public).
Saturday sets the scene with a vibrant mix of live entertainment, market stalls, and the ever-popular Eat Street Food Festival, now celebrating its third year. From delicious kai
and handmade crafts to rides, animals, and classic rural competitions, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
A huge thank you to our generous supporters — TKWA, Trust Waikato, TTCF, and Campbell Tyson — for helping make this event possible and continuing to invest in our growing community.
Indoor Competitions are still open and only $2 to enter – Everyone welcome
Local businesses have generously donated vouchers and prizes for winners in all categories.
No experience needed – just bring your best effort!
The A&P Show remains one of the region’s most anticipated community events, drawing locals and visitors together to celebrate our rural heritage and community spirit.
Families can expect plenty of interactive activities, displays, and local performances, making it a weekend not to be missed. Whether you come for the food, the fun, or the friendly atmosphere, the Te Kauwhata A&P Show is a reminder of everything that
makes our town special.
Mark your calendars and come celebrate 71 years of country charm and community connection at the Te Kauwhata A&P Show!
Want to be involved with the show - we want volunteers
Email us below if you wish to be apart of our amazing volunteer team
• tekauwhatashow@gmail.com
• www.tekauwhatashow.com
Come along, enter a competition, and enjoy a fantastic day or two out at the Te Kauwhata A & P Show 2025!
A Coat of Kindness: When Service Reclaims a Town’s Pride
W hat once stood as an unwelcome symbol at the southern entrance of Ngaaruawaahia has –quite literally – been painted over, not just with a fresh coat of paint, but with a renewed sense of community pride.
In early November, more than twenty volunteers from the local Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS) turned up with brushes, rollers, ladders and heart. They joined forces with the Ngaaruawaahia Tag Smashers – a small group led by locals Meg Daly and Mike Neale, to tackle the longdefaced boxing gym that had greeted visitors with graffiti for years.
The effort began with a simple conversation. Having already collaborated with Meg on smaller graffiti-removal efforts, Kara and Chris Dawson from the LDS Church proposed a bigger challenge – restore the town’s most visible eyesore. With the blessing of the building owners and a little coordination between Harcourts Ngaruawaahia, church leaders and community volunteers, plans were quickly set in motion.
The scene outside the gym on that Saturday morning could have passed for a small festival of service. An advance team mowed and water-blasted the area, clearing years of grime. Soon after, the main group –from pre-teens to retirees – fanned out with paint pots and rollers. In just three hours, the neglected façade was transformed into a clean, two-tone exterior that seemed to breathe relief.
As Kara explained afterwards, “One of the guiding principles in our faith is love and service. A scripture we live by says ‘when you are in the service of your fellow beings,
you are only in the service of your God’.”
The team’s motivation was simple – to make a difference where they live. “We all have a connection to this community, because it’s our town”, added Chris. “Small things can make a big difference”.
For many, it was also about connection. The owners arrived mid-morning with trays of pakora, samosas and bikkies, grateful for the kindness shown to their property and, by extension, their town.
That moment captured the spirit of Ngaaruawaahia – a place where people still roll up their sleeves, share food and look out for one another. In a world that often seems divided, here were people from different faiths, cultures, and ages united by one purpose – to restore pride in a shared place.
When sceptics online suggested the wall would soon be tagged again, the volunteers’ reply was simple: “Then we’ll paint over it again”. Because apathy achieves nothing while action, repeated and consistent, changes everything.
Meg also credits the ongoing support that makes these efforts possible. “My boss at Harcourts Hamilton, Louise Macklow, deserves a shout out”, she says. “She lets me use the back room at our local office to store paint and tools for our anti-graffiti work –small acts of generosity like that really help us keep going”.
donation to LDS-led community projects, thus closing the circle of generosity. Perhaps Meg sums it all up the best: “That’s how we roll in our little town – kindness breeds kindness”.
The Friends of Kimihia Trust have brought together back-to-back fundraising events in support of our kaumatua residing in Kimihia Home and Hospital.
Quiz Night Success
Held on October 17 at the Huntly Bowling Club, the Quiz Night was a lively evening of fun, facts, and fundraising. Fifteen teams competed across four rounds, with topics ranging from biology to entertainment. The event raised over $3,000 through the quiz, auction, and raffle.
Congratulations to our winners: Just Making up Numbers – Overall Champions
Mooloo Maniacs – Best Themed Attire
Lei Girls – Chocolate Fish Winners
Upcoming Christmas Raffle
To keep the festive spirit going, the Friends of Kimihia are also launching a Christmas Raffle!
Tickets available from 17 November ($ 2 each or 3 for $ 5) and can be purchased at Kimihia Home Reception
Prize donations welcome – drop items into the box at the reception Raffle drawn on 16 December 2025
Friends of Kimihia invite everyone to get involved—whether by donating a prize or purchasing a ticket. All proceeds will
The Tag Smashers’ success is also powered by a network of local supporters. Resene Paints has supplied over 160 litres of quality recycled paint, enabling volunteers to keep Ngaaruawaahia’s walls clean and colourful. The Ngaaruawaahia Community Board stepped up to fund the paint sprayer used for the boxing gym transformation, while local builder Greg Smith and Chris Dawson generously provided brushes, rollers and trays. “Without these contributions”, Meg notes, “none of this would be possible. We’re deeply grateful to everyone who helps us keep the town looking proud”.
If the building eventually sells, Harcourts Ngaruawaahia has pledged a charitable
Community Spirit Shines for Kimihia Home
help enhance the care and comfort of our residents.
A heartfelt thank you to all who participated, donated, and volunteered for the Quiz Night. The continuous community support makes a real difference in the lives of those at Kimihia Home.
by Ganga Sudhan
Kick off summer with a free e-waste drop-off
Your old phone called – it’s tired of the junk drawer. Set it free this December by bringing it along to a free e-waste drop-off in Huntly.
Waikato District Council has partnered with Green Gorilla to host a one-off e-waste drop-off, giving communities an opportunity to responsibly dispose of unwanted electronic items.
The costs will be covered by Council’s Waste Minimisation Fund, provided by the Ministry for the Environment. This fund supports initiatives that encourage responsible waste management and reduce improper disposal of e-waste, preventing harmful substances like mercury, and cadmium from contaminating our soil, water, and air.
When: Saturday 6 December 2025, from 9am to 2pm
Where: Green Gorilla Transfer Station, 93 McVie Road, Huntly.
No registration required, just drop by. Find out what can and cannot be accepted on our website: www. waikatodistrict.govt.nz/e-waste
The History of League with Rex Hohaia # 27: EX-KIWIS CAN FLY…and continuing
The Huntly United Rugby Football League Club (est. 1937) was another “carry-over” from the 1930s Kia Ora team, which consisted largely of Māori players who had found it difficult to gain selection in existing teams of the time.
Tonga Mahuta, a foundation member of the Huntly South RFLC, was also instrumental in establishing Huntly United, alongside Harold Adams and Tom Nash.
The club’s history is notable for its unusual circumstances — at the time of selection, not a single Kiwi was in its playing ranks, though many have passed through its “transit lounge” over the years. One such icon was the legendary Waiterimu “Seagull” (no, not duck shooter!) Tawera Nuieia Nikau (1989–97, NZ Junior Kiwi 1986). A loose forward of fierce determination, Nikau often stationed himself out in the centres — “seagulling”, as it was known back in the day. With deft hands and raw strength, he would draw in two or three defenders before sending his centre or wingman on a clear run to the try line.
Nikau first cut his rugby league teeth in the 1984 Huntly United U17s, coached by Arthur Fortune, before moving into the senior ranks the following year. A brief stint with whānau at the Rangiriri Eels RFLC (est. 1982?) followed, before the well-resourced Ōtāhuhu Leopards in Auckland — coached by league great Joe Gwynne — made an offer too good to refuse.
Returning in 1987 to captain a Waikato North XIII against Waikato South XIII in the Endean Shield Challenge marking the Davies Park 50th Jubilee, Nikau was soon heading to Sydney under a NZRL rookie scheme with
the Canterbury-Bankstown club. The rest, as they say, is well-documented history.
Also notable was Roger “Spud” Tait (1965–68), who played for Waikato in 1961 before swapping the blue and white of Huntly United for the same colours at Glenora Bears in Auckland. In 1963, he captained Auckland against South Africa — tika!
Other Huntly United “transit lounge” personnel included Kiwis Bevin Hough (1950–53), Don Parkinson (1968), and Graeme “Scob” Farrar (1961–64), all of whom found gainful employment — or “petrol money”, as it was known — during the 1970s as senior team coaches.
The Horo brothers, Shane (1985–88) and Mark (1987–96), were members of the mighty Hamilton City Tigers (est. 1965) sides of the late 1970s and early 1980s, teams that were always contenders come September footy. By the time both made NZ Kiwi selection, the bright lights of Auckland had called — with Northcote Tigers and Te Atatū Roosters sharing their talents. NRL clubs Parramatta and Wests, along with UK Super League sides Salford, Leigh, Castleford, and Whitehaven, all benefited from the Horos’ skills. Top-level coaching stints followed for Mark after his stellar playing career.
The Hukanui RFLC (est. 1979) can proudly claim Kelly Shelford (1989–91) and Sam Rapira (2007–11, NZ Junior Kiwi 2004) as favourite sons — along with their one and only WRL Championship win in 2001, defeating Turangawaewae at Davies Park, Huntly.
After a topsy-turvy UK Super League career — first with Whitehaven in the 1980s and later Warrington in the early 1990s — Shelford returned to Hamilton, home of his
Steelers (est. 2012) — the whānau team where he later revived his NRL career — Martin’s rise was as rapid as it was dramatic.
A Turangawaewae RFLC (est. 1947) prodigy alongside Isaac John (2014, NZ Junior Kiwi 2006), Martin moved to the Gold Coast as a teenager on a scholarship to Keebra Park State High School around 2012. From there, the NRL conveyor belt took over: Wests Tigers (2013–14), Penrith Panthers (2015–16), and then North Queensland Cowboys (2017), where he played alongside legend Johnathan Thurston.
partner, to become player/coach for Hukanui in 1998, before switching to cross-town rivals Hamilton City Tigers in 1999.
Vodafone Warrior Sam Rapira followed in the footsteps of his “hard as nails” Hukanui prop father Cliff Rapira, spending time in the black, red, and white strip alongside younger brother Steve.
Jason Donnelly (1993, NZ Junior Kiwi 1988) is possibly one of the few Waikato Kiwis to play in a winning Waikato Rugby League Grand Final team. Turning out on the wing in 1987 for the Mark Sullivan–coached Frankton Albions RFLC (est. 1920), he helped secure the club’s one and only Championship win — a 22–10 victory over Turangawaewae.
Later donning the famous red V of the St. George Dragons in Sydney — the same club my granduncle Brownie Paki played for in 1921 — Donnelly became equally well-known for some off-field antics. A promising junior decathlete who trained alongside British Olympic champion Daley Thompson, Donnelly shifted his focus back to rugby league after missing the 1990 NZ Commonwealth Games team.
Picked up by St. George through the NZRL draft system in 1992, he soon caught the attention of NZ selectors. But the 1993 Kiwis tour to Great Britain and France made headlines for all the wrong reasons, when Donnelly and teammate Stephen Kearney fell from a first-floor balcony in Carcassonne — breaking Donnelly’s ankle and leaving Kearney concussed.
Te Maire Martin (2016–22, NZ Junior Kiwi 2014–15), though born in Tokoroa, steadfastly regards the iron sands of Tahāroa as his papakāinga. Representing the Tahāroa
But in early 2019, tragedy struck — a brain bleed forced Martin into immediate retirement. He returned home to Tahāroa for rest, recovery, and reflection.
Not one to sit still, Martin received medical clearance in 2021 and reignited his career — beginning fittingly with the Tahāroa Steelers at Davies Park, Huntly. From there, he rejoined the NRL with the Brisbane Broncos before returning home to play for the New Zealand Warriors. A 2023 appearance for the Māori All Stars added another chapter to his remarkable journey.
From slightly left field, Barry Porteous of the Glen Afton club, though not a full Kiwi, did wear the black and white for a NZ XIII against Great Britain at Addington Showgrounds, Ōtautahi, in 1962. Known as a ten-stone (soaking wet!) “bootlace tackler”, he famously kept the 16-stone British legend Billy Boston in check.
Lastly, a nod to our referees who have represented New Zealand internationally. Huntly locals Arthur Harlock and Roland (Rolly) Avery were Test referees in the 1950s and 1960s, respectively, while Paki Parkinson — former Taniwharau Schoolboy and mokopuna of Kiwi #464 Don Parkinson — officiated at the 2022 Rugby League World Cup in England.
Researched by Rex Hohaia – 2 April 2023
EX-KIWIS CAN FLY
This four (4) part series acknowledges all the Kiwis who played for Waikato Clubs in the past 112 years from Reg Sprague in 1911 to Te Maire Martin in 2021. Ngaruawahia, Huntly South, Taniwharau, Hukanui, Turangawaewae, Tahaaroa, Frankton Albions, Huntly United, Rangiriri, Glen Afton and Hamilton City Tigers.
Huntly Bowling Club: Tournament Results
The Huntly Bowling Club held its second tournament of the 2025–2026 season on Thursday, 6 November. The day was warm and sunny, with a light breeze, and the green played fast and true.
We were joined by ten visiting teams — two from Taupiri, two from Raglan, two from Morrinsville, Morrinsville RSA, Cambridge, and Cambridge
Central — along with six Huntly teams.
The overall winning team on the day was a Huntly side skipped by Lyn Welch, with Terry Wells and Graham Simpson. Second place went to a Morrinsville team, and third was Te Kauwhata.
The tournament was sponsored by the McAllister family.
Our next tournament will be held on Thursday, 4 December. To enter, contact Gary Robinson on 027 281 8990.
Te Kauwhata Bowling Club News
Larry Simmonds, TKBC/College Liaison, has arranged with Katharina Vodanovich, Te Kauwhata College H.O.D. Physical Education and Health, to bring the College’s year 9 classes down to the Bowling Club for a series of tutorial lessons followed by mini-tournaments in term 4.
Cole Drinnan, Bowls New Zealand Rangatahi Lead, attended one of the early tutorials which are part of the initiative between Larry and Katharina to encourage students to participate in a sporting/ recreational activity that they can enjoy and achieve a sense of success, irrespective of their physical prowess, strength or speed.
Bowls is a non-contact, low-aerobic activity that requires strategy and tactical-thinking, and also provides the opportunity to compete either singularly or in groups (2, 3 or 4) at both social or competitive levels with different age groups.
In addition to the PE class sessions, after-school training/practice/coaching sessions will be offered as part of Te Kauwhata College’s extra-curricular sports programme. This can lead to participation in regional and provincial Secondary Schools Lawn Bowls events.
Students who become part of the extra-curricular group, can also become junior members of the Te Kauwhata Bowling Club and be eligible for Club competition and activities thereby developing their bowling skills. Fees assistance is available through Te Kauwhata Bowling Club by private sponsorship.
The sets of bowls that the club has available for use are out of date and not as easy to use as modern ones. Hence the need for new sets of bowls specifically resourced for younger bowlers. Larry applied to Sport New Zealand’s Waikato Tu Manawa Fund supported by Sports Waikato, who have kindly sponsored ten sets of suitable bowls.
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The winning team., showing Terry Wells, Mauve Mc Allister (Sponsor), Graham Simpson, and Lyn Welch (Skip).
PE Teacher Katharina, Cole Drinnan and Larry Simmonds
Larry directing operations
Trust’s Vision for Huntly West
Matawhaanui Trust has lodged a proposal with Waikato District Council to lease part of the Raahui Pookeka/Huntly West Domain.
The lease would support the Trust’s proposed development for the Manuka Hive Hub, a Maaori-led community hub designed to uplift wellbeing, bring people together, and celebrate innovation.
From Rongoaa Maaori (traditional Maaori healing) and massage therapy, to counselling and health
education, the hub aims to bring holistic wellness to the heart of Huntly West. Plans also include training in mental health first aid, drug and alcohol awareness, and wellbeing-focused education programmes.
Having already bought the former Chorus building on Harris Street in September 2024, right next to the proposed lease area, they hope that securing the lease of the vacant building and as a small area of surrounding land will propel their plans forward.
The empty building, built by Plunket in the 1960’s, and later home to the Maaori Wardens, was originally slated to be demolished after falling into a state of disrepair.
But Trust members see potential, expressing a strong desire to restore and reuse the building as part of the new hub, along with developing additional land for car parking and outdoor spaces.
Council staff are keen for the local community to provide feedback.
Have your say!
If you want to share your thoughts on the proposed lease, you can learn all about it and complete your submission here by Friday 28 November 2025.
DIY Worm Farm Workshop
Bring your curiosity and gardening spirit to a fun and practical morning learning how to turn your food scraps into rich compost with worms.
When: Thursday 27 November, 10:00 am
Where: Te Whare Awhi, 14 Fraser Street, Huntly
With: Paul (from Go Eco)
Why make your own worm farm?
A worm farm is an easy way to turn everyday food scraps into something valuable. Instead of sending waste to landfill, your worms transform it into rich vermicast and liquid fertiliser that feed your garden and help your soil hold moisture. It cuts down rubbish, reduces smells, and creates a simple, sustainable cycle at home. Worm farms are also a great way for tamariki to learn about kaitiakitanga and how nature recycles.
Here’s what you’ll gain from the workshop — and from your worm farm:
• Learn how easy it is to set up a worm farm at home (even in a small space), and how it helps process food scraps into valuable compost.
• Discover what worms can (and can’t) eat, how to keep your worm farm healthy and odour-free, and how to harvest the worm castings and “worm tea” for your garden.
• Benefit your garden by feeding it with nutrient-rich worm compost, which helps soil health and reduces the need for chemical fertilisers.
• Reduce waste going to landfill, helping your household and community move toward zero-waste and sustainable living.
What you’ll cover in the workshop
Paul from Go Eco will guide you step-by-step through:
• Choosing the right location for your worm farm (shaded, sheltered)
• Setting up the bedding, adding worms and food scraps
• Feeding routines, troubleshooting (e.g., what to do if flies appear, if it’s too wet/dry)
• Harvesting your worm castings and making wormtea to feed plants
• Tips for seasonal care: keeping your worms happy in summer and winter. Who should come?
• This workshop is ideal for anyone who:
• Wants to reduce kitchen waste and turn it into something useful
• Is keen to grow healthier plants or start a veggie patch
• Wants to learn more about sustainability, eco-living and community gardening
Families are welcome too — it’s a great hands-on activity for whānau (families) wanting to do something green together.
Registration & practical info
• Please arrive a little before 10:00 am for a timely start.
• Bring a notebook or phone to take notes, and if you already have ideas or questions about your garden or food-scraps situation — bring them along!
• Book online @ eventspronto.co.nz or phone 07 8280066 to confirm your spot
Let’s help our community make the most of our foodwaste, enrich our gardens, and build a greener Huntly together. We hope to see you on Thursday 27 November! Te Whare Awhi tewhareawhi@huntly.co.nz 07 8280066
Reflections on work, life, and the little things that make a difference
This column is a space to make sense of everyday thoughts, decisions and challenges in a way that’s easy to carry. It doesn’t promise all the answers –but it does believe that some ideas are worth holding gently, together.
The Trouble with Changing Perceptions
Some weeks ago, a client recounted an experience that reminded me how much energy we can waste trying to adjust reality to match our perception, instead of the other way around.
He lives in Te Kauwhata and had recently moved into a home that backed onto a neighbour’s property. The neighbour’s trees lining the shared boundary had long been left unchecked by the previous owner and some had begun to lean, shedding twigs and leaves that clogged gutters and blocked light.
So, he decided to tidy it up – carefully trimming the branches that hung over his side of the fence, within his legal right. The job was neat, necessary and well-intentioned. But a few days later, the neighbour approached him clearly upset. Not because the trees were damaged (which they weren’t) but because the trimming had opened up a visual gap into his backyard – a space he’d relied on the overgrowth to shield.
In his mind, the natural barrier had become a form of privacy –and that privacy had now been taken away.
It was a classic case of perceived reality colliding with actual reality. My client had addressed a very real and present problem –overgrowth causing maintenance issues and potential damage. But the neighbour wasn’t engaging with that reality. Instead, he was reacting to the loss of a perception – that those trees were his fence, his protection, his boundary.
To his credit, my client didn’t escalate. He didn’t fire back with “I had every right” or “it’s not my job to care about your privacy”. Instead, they had a conversation. They clarified their perspectives. And the solution? A few new shrubs planted more strategically, offering back some screening for the neighbour, but without sacrificing the needed maintenance.
Ultimately, the real shift wasn’t in the tree line. It was in the conversation that helped perception catch up to reality.
A Thought to Carry With Us?
This story stayed with me because it reminded me how often we enter conversations – and even conflicts – trying to bend the world to suit our assumptions. We act as though our perception is the truth rather than understand that it’s a version of reality that has been shaped by our history, needs or fears.
But sometimes, reality doesn’t need defending. It just needs acknowledging. The better path forward often lies not in trying to reshape facts to suit our comfort but in gently updating our lens to better see what’s actually in front of us.
Because when we meet reality where it is – instead of where we imagined it to be, it gets a whole lot easier to move forward together.
Ganga Sudhan enjoys finding small insights in everyday moments and sharing them as reflections on work, life, and the in-betweens. You can reach him at ganga@rte.co.nz or find him on LinkedIn via the QR Code below to follow his latest musings.
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29th November 9:30am followed by members Christmas tournament for AGM attendees only.
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NOTICE OF HERBICIDE SPRAYING
Department of Conservation advises that under Resource Consent 124871 spraying of pest plants growing in aquatic locations will commence over the next three months.
Pest plants to be sprayed are listed in the Regional Pest Management Plan and include (but are not limited to): royal fern, alligator weed, golden dodder, crack & grey willow, mexican water lily, spartina and yellow flag iris. Herbicides to be used are haloxyfop, metsulfuron-methyl, glyphosate and triclopyr. Application method is location dependent and may be by helicopter, gun and hose, mistblower or knapsack.
Operational areas are spread throughout the district and include (but are not limited to):
Spraying is weather dependent and will occur during daylight hours on any day, including weekends but excluding public holidays. For more information or to request to be notified call 0800 ASK DOC. Occupiers who have already requested to be notified will be contacted prior to spraying. For additional notification or further information, please email the Waikato Operations Manager Niwha Jones waikato@doc.govt.nz
