On the cover: A momentous moment for Huntly Gymnastics Club. Our first Public Sign since 1984 Sharing the moment is some proud gymnasts. A huge thanks to Huntly Bridgestone for allowing the club to have a sign.
Tim’s News
Connecting with the wonderful people here in the North Waikato community is one of the great benefits of my role as your MP. I enjoy getting out and about around the district and having the opportunity to meet with people of all ages, in various sectors, and with varying views.
Engaging with business leaders and their teams across all sorts of industries, is a highly valued part of my day-today calendar when I’m in the electorate. I get to hear firsthand accounts of the wins and challenges businesses in the district are experiencing, and how those issues are impacting production, staff, and operational capabilities.
The big issue currently for small business owners is the same for everyone - increased costs and uncertainty of fuel security. The government is monitoring the situation closely, and our fuel supplies remain stable. I know that fuel price rises are impacting everyone to varying degrees, but we simply can’t afford to take on the huge debt that would come from reducing pump prices across the board. However, we’re providing financial support that is targeted, timely and temporary for Kiwis most acutely feeling the impact of these fuel price rises. In the near-term inflation is expected to increase and the economic recovery to weaken, but this will depend on the extent to which higher costs will influence price and wage-setting behaviours of businesses. I encourage you, where possible to support small business, shop local, and keep our economy going.
When travelling around the mighty Waikato you can see quite clearly that it is an area of significant agricultural and horticultural production. I am proud that the Waikato boasts the largest dairying sector in the country. North Waikato farmers, and ag-related businesses, contribute hugely to the tonnes of food and fibre being produced every day for our country and for the world.
Farming is the backbone of our country, which is why we’ve been so focused on removing the challenges the sector faced under the last government. High interest rates, restrictive regulations, worker shortages, increasing business costs and adverse weather events had put continued pressure on this sector. Staying in the game and remaining on farm, while enduring such challenging times, is a testament to the resilience of our hardworking farmers and growers. It is the combined resilience of farmers, small business and good local people supporting each other which makes the North Waikato community such a wonderful place to live.
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.
The rising price of fuel
Thenumber-one question for the Government at present is, what are you doing about the rising price of fuel? While we cannot control global oil prices and we can’t control the conflict in the Middle East, what we can control is how we respond to the fuel crisis. As a Government, we have chosen to do so in a careful, deliberate and measured way, with support that is targeted, temporary and timely.
To date, the support we have announced includes $50 a week for 143,000 lower-income working families who cannot easily avoid higher fuel costs, and a 30 per cent increase to mileage rates for home and community support workers. These increases will remain in place for up to 12 months, or until the price of 91 octane petrol falls below $3 per litre for four consecutive weeks.
Further increased payments also kicked in on 1 April for 1.5 million New Zealanders, including superannuitants, veterans, students, main beneficiaries, and people who receive additional assistance despite not being on a benefit. This is practical help aimed squarely at the cost-of-living challenges many are experiencing.
To put one myth to bed, the Government is not benefiting from higher fuel prices. Petrol excise is a fixed cents-perlitre charge, so it does not increase when prices rise, and while GST theoretically increases, it’s expected to be offset by reduced fuel use and lower spending elsewhere.
In short, there is no windfall gain for the Government. In fact, the overall impact may be negative as households cut back and economic activity softens.
We are very aware that the higher prices are creating significant cost pressures for dairy and arable farmers, especially with the May stock movements coming up. Farmers are experiencing supply chain delays, particularly for diesel, which has recently exceeded 91 octane petrol prices. Should New Zealand have to move to higher, more restrictive phases of our National Fuel Plan, fuel will be prioritised to essential services and critical economic drivers, which includes farming and food supply chains.
Many people have suggested we should cut fuel excise tax or road user charges, as has been done in Australia, but this would affect our ability to continue to fix our transport infrastructure. Fuel excise tax is primarily used to fund the National Land Transport Fund (NLTF). This ringfenced revenue is dedicated to the National Land Transport Programme, which finances the maintenance, operation and improvement of our roads and public transport infrastructure. Cutting RUC or fuel tax would mean that we would have to borrow money to pay for this ongoing work, lifting inflation and interest rates further in the long run.
The Government’s main focus is on dealing with the impacts of the Middle East conflict on New Zealanders and ensuring we minimise that as much as possible. That means ensuring we maintain the fuel we need to keep the economy moving through our National Fuel Plan, and providing targeted, timely and temporary support for people most under pressure from rising fuel costs.
Councillor’s Corner
Marlene Raumati
Waerenga-Whitikahu
General Ward Councillor
Approval of the Transfer Agreement between Waikato District Council and IAWAI –Flowing Waters Ltd was approved by Council, on Wednesday 11 March 2026.
The Agreement between Waikato District Council, Hamilton City Council and IAWAI is critical to ensuring that IAWAI can safely and seamlessly operate the waters network from 1 July 2026.
While the Transfer Agreement is a complex legal document, it is largely technical in nature. It was developed by legal and subject matter experts, with key decisions made collaboratively by both Councils’ CFOs and IAWAI Chief Executive, Peter Winder.
The agreement reflects the requirements of the Local Government Water Services Act 2025 (LGWSA), the principles agreed in the IAWAI Shareholders’ Agreement, and the Constitution approved by both Councils in June 2025.
The agreed approach is that the transfer must be simple, fair, and avoid creating unnecessary costs for our communities. The transfer of assets and liabilities on an as-is-where-is basis, includes all associated infrastructure, plants, equipment, and development contribution reserves held for waters activities, Additionally, the agreement ensures a staged approach to the transfer of land - with complex sites being transferred over time, and waters contracts being novated to IAWAI where possible, to ensure all relevant work in progress remains on track.
Council’s current financial year to date debt position, currently sits at $336m. Council’s capital delivery (“CAPEX”) is 46% below forecasted year to date delivery across transport, stormwater, wastewater and water supply. Revenue is $3.7m below budget as a direct result of low solid waste user-pays volumes and NZTA funding impacts. Council’s transport portfolio has a current favourable $3m finance variance, while Councils sustainable environment portfolio has a favourable $558k finance variance.
While Council’s current water supply CAPEX expenditure, sits at $8.1m underspend, this will transfer to IAWAI-Flowing Waters. Water revenue is paid for via a targeted rate, reflecting a user-pays system. Further information pertinent to Council’s current financial position and performance can be found at www.waikatodistrict.govt. nz/your-council/council-committees-boards
Going against the traditional LTP method, engaging early in the details, Councillor’s spent a little over two days combing through the current LTP earnestly examining mandatory and non-mandatory costs of Council’s activities/ levels of service.
The installation of a community playground for example, triggers eight mandatory pieces of legislation, which then has a flow on effect and covers open spaces planning, open spaces strategy, open spaces climate response, open spaces maintenance and reserve management.
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.
While Council currently maintains 62 playgrounds and 947 shrub gardens, these are set to grow, with new playgrounds, planned for development and some due to be vested into Council. There are significant, ongoing costs associated with each asset, that our communities are not ordinarily aware of. These above the ground assets require maintenance, renewals and in some cases replacement. While these and associated costs are budgeted for they are covered by the general rate.
If you have a council related concern, please feel free to contact me either by email at marlene.raumati@waidc.govt. nz or by phone on 020 - 40012548.
Regards
Marlene Raumati Councillor Waerenga-Whitikahu
Authorised by Andrew Bayly, Parliament Buildings, Wgtn.
Reflections with Waikato District Council CEO, Craig Hobbs
The Chatter quizzes Waikato District Council CEO on his first year in the role and what he plans next. Expect ‘leaner, smarter, better and affordable’.
You’re relatively new into the job as CEO of the council; briefly where did you come from, and why WDC?
I ticked over 12 months as CEO early February; previously I had 5.5 years with Auckland Council mainly as Director of Regulatory Services. This covered all of council’s compliance monitoring and enforcement; everything from Resource and Building Consents, Animal Management, Environmental Health and Alcohol Licensing.
When Regulatory Services restructured and disbanded mid-2024, I contracted back to Auckland Council supporting the Recovery (2023 weather events) Office plus other work, I applied to Waikato District Council because it’s a large complex provincial council with significant growth pressure. This means balancing rapid development in many areas, with longterm infrastructure planning, service delivery, and community expectations. But it’s coming at a time where
government reform is pushing councils to do more with less, address affordability and consider regional structuring.
This is the sort of challenge I enjoy; there is never a dull moment. We know the council touches residents’ lives every day and doing this effectively and efficiently is a responsibility I take extremely seriously.
The Mayor and the CEO- who does what?
The mayor is the civic leader of the Waikato District, elected publicly by the district with responsibility to lead the 13 elected councillors in their duties. The mayor sets the committee structure and appoints the deputy mayor and committee chairs.
The time commitment required as Mayor and the duties with council to determine the strategic direction for the district into the future is extremely demanding.
The Mayor and Council appoint the Chief Executive. I’m actually the only employee appointed by the mayor and councillors, and I’m responsible for recruiting and leading all staff. My role is to appoint staff, as well as being accountable for making sure we deliver work programmes - set by Councillors through the 10-year Long Term Plan - on time and within budget.
The biggest challenge you’ve faced so far?
The biggest (and on-going) challenge so far at WDC is balancing many competing priorities. My newly established and smaller lead team and I are transforming the business to a more commercial focus, to become leaner, agile, more customer responsive and cost affordable.
This coincides with government legislation impacting what we do and the way we do it. Like the rest of NZ, Waikato District has fallen behind in investing in core infrastructure.
We cannot afford to fix this quickly, so we need to invest very carefully in the right areas for population and economic growth. And that comes at a time when a rates cap is likely to be imposed, which will impact what we are able to deliver and when.
Council gets a lot of flak; what are your thoughts?
We do get things wrong occasionally and the transformation programme is a testament to my desire for us to be a smarter and better organisation. I know that people who work for WDC are fully committed to the district and delivering better for our residents.
I am biased, but I do believe council gets flak that is often undeserved. Most of the services that we provide go unnoticed, as they operate very effectively. We look after roads, parks and reserves, libraries, and make sure we can reliably deliver household water, and take away and safely treat sewerage, plus the other 200+ services and activities we undertake. Unfortunately, when these critical services fail, as they do from time to time, it is very obvious.
Hottest issue that keeps you up at night?
Keyboard warriors on social media who contribute nothing of value to our district but constantly criticise our elected officials and my kaimahi with little or no substance.
The time and commitment our elected members, including community board and committee members, give to make the district a better place cannot be understated. The same applies to WDC staff who often could be earning more in the private sector but have a social gene that wants to contribute to our communities.
Unlike income tax, rates are a grudge purchase for folk; can they become affordable?
I believe that you get far greater value for your rates than you do from taxes, but your rates are more confronting as they come in a bill whereas your taxes are taken before you see money in your hand (PAYE, GST, etc).
Council’s services are critical, but we know affordability is a major issue. How do we fix it? By becoming more effective and efficient in delivering those services through technology and process improvement, and balancing needs against ‘wants and wishes’. We simply can’t deliver everything to please everyone.
Another cost saving action is the mayor’s wish for communities to make their own decisions on spend in their areas, according to its needs. But (again the balancing act) we can’t put off infrastructure investment indefinitely and create issues for future generations.
This time next year- what will be different?
Restructure will focus on delivering core services as effectively and efficiently as possible. You’ll see consistent, highquality customer service. Evidencebased business decisions will point to where we spend your money. We want residents to clearly see value and have confidence that rates are being used wisely and well.
Spare time- is there any for a CEO of a large council?
A little! I’ve been involved in hockey all my life and still playing competitively at Masters’ level. I tend to work reasonably long hours during the week, so I spend as much time as I can with family on weekends and try to switch off from work when I am with them.
By Claire Simpson
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3 Stirling Place, Huntly —
The Spotlight: Bruce McLachlan
Amuralist with marks across Hamilton has extended himself northwards with a new work adorning a beloved Huntly rugby club grounds.
Bruce McLachlan, a well-known Hamilton muralist located on Norton Road in Kirikiriroa, took up the challenge of creating a meaningful mural for Huntly’s Davies Park.
McLachlan has been painting for a long time. It’s in recent years that he’s begun to gain attention for his public murals.
Hamilton’s BOON Festival has seen his artwork hit the streets of the town, both in the city centre and in the suburbs.
The call came from Huntly: now do us! A desire for a blank wall outside Davies Club to be decorated resulted in McLachlan’s first mural in Raahui Pookeka.
In McLachlan’s mind, there’s no better medium than a big ol’ wall for artists from small towns like Huntly.
“Small towns have some awesome artists, which will likely never be seen unless they graffiti,” he said.
He’s not talking about tagging trains–although it’s how many muralists get started. In small towns, it’s not as simple as heading to the local prestigious art school before opening a successful gallery.
That’s why budding artists must turn their attention to the blank spaces around them, McLachlan said–there are canvases everywhere for those with eyes to see.
“[Murals in a small town] are no different in their idea from a big city, because these big city graffiti artists come from a background like Huntly,” he said.
“So there’s a piece of them from that little town [in their art], and that’s what makes it so good.
“And then you get people who have gone to the finest art schools, they go to the best universities and all that stuff, and have money behind them–they’re no better than a guy that’s done no school.”
McLachlan’s mural at Davies park pictures four esteemed athletes who have come out of Huntly. One face stands out as the first female rugby player to be included in a Huntly mural.
“I’ve never had someone paint me before,” said Huntly born and bred Warriors star Mya Hill-Moana, whose face is depicted second from the left in the mural.
“There are so many people that could have been chosen to be in that mural. I was lucky.”
Hill-Moana grew up in Huntly on netball and rugby. Now just 23 years old, she’s busy not only playing for the Warriors, but also raising a baby.
She said the mural filled her with hope and pride to see.
“I hope girls will see this and think, ‘if she can do it, and she’s from Huntly, then I can do it too.”
In terms of sports and arts making such an iconic collaboration, Hill-Moana hopes to see more of it.
“I love it. I think we need more of it to recognise all the amazing athletes from Huntly.”
by Sarah Morcom
The meals on wheels of Raahui Pookeka
In a small town with few places to grab a bite to eat, the more experienced street-food-foragers keep their eyes peeled for deliciousness on wheels.
It’s an experience that one food market organiser hopes to bring more of to the Huntly community.
The food trucks of Huntly are few in numbers and strong in community. They follow each other to popular events and streets, and support each other through the tough times.
Rollin’ Dough is a fried bread food truck, cooking up both traditional fried bread and some with a twist such as cheese or chocolate.
“It’s a great community. At events, we will often all swap food between us,” owner Yve Haenga-Ashby said.
Haenga-Ashby started Rollin Dough after her daughter began studying business at the University of Waikato.
“Me and her dad said, if you’re going to learn business then the way you are going to learn is with your own business,” she said.
Family is hugely important to the Rollin’ Dough crew; even their menu items reflect it.
There’s the Uncles (“bigger in size, and everyone’s favourite”), the Aunties (“they come in little packs together because they like to sit together and chat”) and Nanas and Papas (“some sweet, some cheesy, but we love them”).
Their priorities are learning together, and taking care of the community.
“If someone is in need, we won’t let them go hungry; we often give out free meals,” Haenga-Ashby said.
“I’m a social worker full-time, so it’s just great to spend the weekends with my daughter.”
Kahi Kai, a classic street food truck selling hotdogs, burgers, and chips, is also a family oriented business.
“We set it up to teach our kids the value of a good work ethic,” said owner Penny Nikora, who only opened the truck for business last October.
When she’s not in the truck, Nikora is busy with her other business which provides screen-printing and embroidery
services. Kahi Kai is a way for her to pass on financial wisdom to her kids.
“We wanted them to understand that all their hobbies and extracurricular activities come with expenses, and to understand how hard we work to provide those for them,” she said.
She’s loved watching her daughter’s confidence and understanding of the world grow. Her daughter is a big hit with regulars coming out for a feed.
“She talks smack to the customers, and they love it! My favourite part of the gig is definitely the customers, you meet a whole range of people.”
Both Rollin’ Dough and Kahi Kai travel to events such as the Fielddays and sporting events in the region, as well as sometimes finding busy public spots on weekends.
Mexican style food truck Locomexicano, travelling the Waikato roads for over nine years, also follows the crowds to events but finds setting up in a public space on a regular day
Grace is not any part South American; he wanted a food truck and bought a mexican one as it was, keeping everything the same including the name.
“All my recipes are things I’ve sort of invented. It seems to be a popular menu with people.”
Director of Food Truck Social, Kris Bryant said that trucks like Rollin’ Dough, Locomexicano, and Kahi Kai may have a new opportunity very soon to regularly set up shop in Huntly.
“We are currently in the process of setting up a regular food truck event in Huntly, happening once every month,” Bryant said.
The event will include a dozen food trucks with generous variety, live music and entertainment, and lawn games for some community fun.
“The monthly event in Te Kauwhata has been successful over the last 1.5 years which sees a good number of the Huntly community attend which is great. But there is room
Growing Local: North Waikato Natives
Cultivating Plants with Purpose
Based in Waerenga, Te Kauwhata, North Waikato Natives is a family-run nursery supporting farmers and lifestyle block owners with native planting. Since 2020, they’ve focused on supplying hardy, locally sourced plants suited to realworld conditions, from restoring waterways to shaping functional, good-looking landscapes.
Tell us about your business and when it was established?
Established in 2020, North Waikato Natives is a family-run business located in Waerenga, Te Kauwhata.
With a passion for gardening and cultivating native plants that flourish in our local landscape. Our aim is to assist farmers and owners of lifestyle blocks with their planting ambitions, whether it’s rejuvenating waterways and unused land, stabilising banks, crafting hedging, or creating standout native plant features around their homes.
What backgrounds do you have that contributed to knowing this business was right for you?
Marty, who spent his childhood in the Pukekohe, Franklin region, has dedicated 20 years to fencing contracting. Working along the Waikato regional council fencing off farm waterways. Beyond fencing, he’s a skilled diesel mechanic and has also overseen the operations on his family’s dairy farm.
Ashley contributes her expertise from over 15 years in rural banking, with a background of hands-on experience in multiple plant nurseries and landscaping companies.
Who do you offer and how do these services and products appeal to a range of clients?
North Waikato Natives is a by appointment nursery offering locally eco-sourced native plants to farming and lifestyle block property owners, we also supply the Waikato regional council with our plants for their waterway restoration projects.
What aspect do you enjoy most about your business ?
I absolutely love when our new seedlings arrive in September, we are lucky enough to have our family travel to us to help us pot up 1000s of seedlings, it’s the busiest time of year for the nursery as the rest of the year the plants are busy growing from tiny seedlings to waist height beautiful Native plants ready for sale, we are very grateful for our family helping us with this.
How do people find you and get in touch ?
People can find us on Facebook
Email- northwaikatonatives@ outlook.com
Website- www.northwaikatonatives. co.nz
Or they can call me on 0210702937
Social Transport Trips Bring Smiles and Connections
T his summer has been a standout season for Social Transport trips organised by Te Kauwhata Community House, with members enjoying memorable outings across the Waikato and beyond.
From coast to coast and town to town, the trips have taken us through some of our most beautiful landscapes and lively destinations. Journeys have included scenic visits from Kaiaua on the east coast to Raglan on the west, along with cultural stops such as the Te Whare Taonga o Kirikiriroa (Hamilton Museum) exhibitions, botanic gardens and a trip to Thames.
Getting out of town and into the countryside is good for the soul. Members consistently report how refreshing it is to experience the natural beauty of the region while exploring new places together.
Feedback from those who have joined the trips has been overwhelmingly positive. Members come away smiling, uplifted not only by the interesting and beautiful places they visit, but also by the simple pleasures along the way. Sampling the local fare is always part of the adventure — whether it’s famed fish and chips or a recommended café, no opportunity is missed to support local eateries and enjoy good food.
Just as important as the destinations, however, is the sense
of connection created during the journeys. Conversations spark easily in the van or over coffee at a café, and people find real value in getting to know the person sitting beside them. These interactions help turn a day trip into a shared experience that leaves participants feeling more connected and engaged.
Creating these moments of connection is at the heart of the Social Transport programme. By bringing people together and encouraging social interaction, Te Kauwhata Community House continues to foster a stronger sense of community — one trip, one conversation, and one shared smile at a time.
We’ll slow down a bit for winter now, as the weather makes getting out and about a bit more difficult. Check out the new programme and give us a call at the Te Kauwhata Community House to reserve your spot! 07 826 4303.
Huntly Museum Hits Six Month Milestone
Six months after its grand opening in the town’s restored 1939 railway station, Huntly Museum Te Whare Taonga o Raahui Pookeka has cemented its status as a symbol of resilience for the Waikato district.
Since opening its doors on 4 October 2025, the museum has seen a steady stream of locals and international tourists
eager to explore a collection that spans millions of years— from prehistoric fossils to the grit of the
identity.
A Journey from Ashes
The six-month milestone is particularly poignant given the museum’s history. Following a devastating arson attack in 2023 that destroyed its former home, the community
rallied to safeguard over 18,000 gifted objects. Today, those items are housed in a modern, interactive space that serves as both a treasure house Te Whare Taonga and a functional gateway to the town.
Interactive Heritage
The museum’s first half-year has been defined by high engagement. The $120,000 mining exhibition remains a centrepiece, allowing visitors to don hard hats and walk through the dark of a mine. The museum has also successfully integrated with the rail line, hosting the Glenbrook Vintage Railway steam locomotive, which drew over 350 visitors in one very busy afternoon.
Looking Ahead
To keep the momentum going, the museum continues its “Free Friday” initiative on the first Friday of every month. Collection Manager Debra Kane says “We have lots that we are planning including special Matariki events, to Pigments of the Whenua workshop and starting work on a brand new Virtual Reality Experience!” .The museum is open 10-4 Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturdays every week at 2a Glasgow St, Huntly.
The Kai Connection – Term 2: Winter Warmers
Our first term of The Kai Connection was a great success, with participants enjoying making a range of delicious dishes including flatbreads, chutney, fresh pasta, chocolate wacky cake and more.
Participants also explored meal planning, nutrition, preserving, kitchen confidence, and hygiene.
Term 2 begins on Tuesday 5 May. This six-week programme runs from 9:30am to 12 noon at Te Whare Awhi, and welcomes anyone keen to build confidence in the kitchen while strengthening everyday skills like reading recipes, measuring, budgeting, and planning healthy meals.
Led by facilitator Jodie Collins, The Kai Connection blends cooking with literacy, numeracy, and hauora in a fun, relaxed environment. Each week, participants work together to prepare tasty meals, learn new techniques, and build skills that support wellbeing and daily life.
If you’re looking to learn practical cooking skills, meet others, and enjoy good kai, this course is a great place to start.
Through kai, kōrero, and creativity, The Kai Connection helps whānau nourish their bodies, minds, and communities — one season at a time.
Programme Details:
Starts: Tuesday 5 May Time: 9:30am – 12 noon
Venue: Te Whare Awhi, 14 Fraser Street, Huntly
Phone: 07 828 0066
Email: tewhareawhi@huntly.co.nz
Online bookings: www.eventspronto.co.nz/event6624
Spaces are limited — book now to secure your place
town’s coal mining
Keeping TK Safe One Street At a Time
Constant patrolling is keeping Te Kauwhata safer, and from the turnout at the Community Patrol’s AGM recently, it seems more people are stepping up to be involved.
The patrol is made up of volunteers, giving up a few hours a month to drive around Te Kauwhata and local areas including Waerenga, Rangiriri and Meremere, keeping an eye out for anything out of the ordinary. They are in constant contact with Police and information passed on by the patrol has helped resolve numerous issues.
The AGM also saw the retirement of two of the village’s most constant volunteers, Colin and Chris Willats, who held positions of treasurer and volunteer vetting officer, respectively In thanking them for their commitment, Community Patrol team leader, Derek Peel, said having two strong (and willing) volunteers had made a significant difference to the running of the organisation and had contributed to its growth.
Colin, who had served as treasurer for the past eight years, said during that time the patrol had undergone a complete resurrection; from very few patrollers, a small car and infrequent patrols. “We had very little in the bank and it didn’t look hopeful,” he said.
Derek said that thanks to a number of people who put time and effort into regrowing the patrol, things were looking very positive and the bank balance at last in the black. They planned to replace their vehicle and will be actively fundraising in the next few months.
“We have spent 1,300 hours on patrol in the past year, which has been made possible with more numbers. We’re pretty proud that we can report our patrolling hours are up 65% over last year. That makes a big difference to our community. We’re now up to 32 active members which is very heartening for a small village.
“However, with more volunteers, of course we can do more. It’s not arduous, we ask people to try to commit to four hours a month, either in one four-hour shift or two x twohour shifts. Our roster is flexible, allowing people to patrol weekends, or daytime instead of nights.”
Patrollers train to recognise things that ‘just don’t fit’ and pass information on for police to investigate. These might include strange comings and goings at addresses, locating stolen vehicles, damaged or abandoned vehicles and loose stock. They also report damage or fly tipping to the council.
“We know how important it is to keep our people as well as the community safe,” says Derek. “We always work in pairs and police know where we are. Our job is to notice, observe and report to police. We don’t get out and confront people, but we patrol areas of greatest risk or vulnerability.”
The Te Kauwhata Community Patrol is part of Community Patrols of NZ, a150 -strong affiliated nationwide group. But funding comes via the generosity of local grants, sponsorships and donations. Te Kauwhata also covers costs with the help of the local Lions Club and TK Water Assoc.
The current patrol has its origins in the long defunct Night Hawks, becoming a recognised Community Patrol in 2011 under the guidance of a large number of communityminded folk including Barry Weaver, and subsequently Hazel Boldero, Derek Richmond, Russ Maged and Martin and Lynne Glover.
Interested in joining?
It isn’t as time consuming as fire or ambulance volunteering but plays a vital part of making local communities safer.
You can register your interest via Te Kauwhata Community Patrol on Facebook or the CPNZ.org.nz site - click on ‘become a patroller’. From there, a brief visit is arranged by the local committee outlining the process and answering questions.
They also can help with the paperwork required by the Police for vetting (needed because patrollers come into contact with police information).
“Then when the vetting’s done, we take you out for a ride-along so you can see firsthand what we do and feel comfortable that its right for you. There are three training trips and 10 easy online modules to complete. Once that’s done, you link up with a patrol partner and start patrolling,” says Derek.
Patrollers use the community patrol car and are supplied with high viz jackets and shirts as well as the tools of the trade such as torches.
As Derek says, the community patrol can be anywhere, anytime, helping to keep communities safe. It’s also involved with community events such as the A&P Show and Christmas Parade as well as forming part of the local emergency response team.
If this sounds like you, Derek would love to hear from you.
By Claire Simpson
When the Maize Drops… the Mice Move In
Around this time of year, you’ll start to notice a bit of a shift out in the country.
The maize gets cut, the paddocks open up, and all of a sudden, the locals that were happily living out there -start looking for a new place to call home. Yep… we’re talking about mice. And while they might look small and harmless, when it comes to your home or shed wiring, they can cause some serious damage, especially heading into winter.
We see it every year. As the temperature drops, mice go hunting for warmth and shelter. Unfortunately, your walls, ceilings, and switchboards are prime real estate. Add in the fact that electrical wiring insulation makes for great nesting material (in their opinion, not ours), and you’ve got a recipe
for hidden issues.
Chewed wiring isn’t just inconvenient - it’s a real fire risk. We’ve come across everything from flickering lights and tripping circuits through to full-blown electrical faults that could have been avoided with a simple check. The tricky part? Most of the damage happens out of sight. By the time you notice something’s off, it’s often already been sitting there quietly getting worse. That’s why this is the perfect time of year to get on the front foot.
A quick pre-winter electrical check can give you peace of mind that everything’s safe, sound, and ready for the colder months - especially if you’re relying on heaters, pumps, or extra lighting as the days get shorter.
If you’ve noticed any of the above, it’s worth getting it looked at sooner rather than later. We’re locals too - we know what this season brings, and we’re here to help keep your home, shed, or workshop running safely through it. So when the maize comes off and the mice start moving… make sure they’re not moving into your wiring.
Stay safe, The team at Redline Electrical & Security
Green Steel – fast‑tracked industrial investment
Waikato District Council has also welcomed the decision by an independent expert panel to grant fast-track approvals for the National Green Steel project at Te Kauwhata under the Fast-track Approvals Act 2024.
The approval enables the development of a structural steel manufacturing plant using recycled steel as its primary input, representing a major investment in advanced manufacturing, jobs and skills within the district.
“The project is expected to create around 200 skilled jobs, supporting high-value employment and building capability in advanced manufacturing. It will allow New Zealand to recycle and manufacture structural steel here at home for the first time, using scrap metal sourced from across the country rather than exporting it offshore,” he said.
“The fast-track process has provided certainty for an investment that will support employment, innovation and a more sustainable construction sector, while still being subject to robust conditions.”
Unsealed road grading programme underway across northern Waikato
Council is continuing maintenance grading across unsealed roads in the northern Waikato district, including areas around Tuakau, Pookeno, Huntly, Te Kauwhata, and surrounding rural communities such as Maramarua, Waerenga, Whitikahu, and western rural areas.
Grading helps keep roads safe and drivable by reshaping the surface, redistributing gravel, and smoothing out potholes.
It’s a key part of maintaining these roads, helping to:
• improve driving comfort and safety
• reduce dust and loose material
• keep the road surface in good condition Crews are working through different
areas as part of an ongoing programme, with additional graders helping to keep work moving after recent wet weather.
Most of the work is on low-volume roads, so traffic impacts are minimal. Roads will remain open, with no closures planned. If you approach a grader, it will pull over when safe to allow you to pass.
Unsealed roads can deteriorate quickly, especially after rain. Crews prioritise work based on road condition and safety.
If you have concerns about a specific road, report it through the Antenno app or the Council website at waikatodistrict.govt. nz/report-it
For more information about our road maintenance, visit waikatodistrict.govt.nz/ roadmaintenance
Winter is On The Way –Get Your Free Flu Vaccine
Winter is approaching, bringing a higher risk of flu, Covid-19 and other illnesses. One of the best ways to protect yourself, your whānau and your community is to keep up to date with your recommended immunisations.
Why get immunised?
Immunisation helps lower your risk of serious illness and reduces the chance of passing infections on to others — especially pēpi, older adults, those who are pregnant, and people with underlying health conditions.
Flu and other winter illnesses can still make people very unwell and, in some cases, lead to hospital care. Getting vaccinated early is the best way to protect yourself through the colder months. The flu vaccine is free for many people including those aged 65 and over.
Book ahead to get vaccinated from 1 April
To book your free flu vaccine, contact your family doctor, pharmacy, healthcare provider, or:
• book online through BookMyVaccine. You can make individual or group bookings now, for vaccinations from 1 April.
• visit healthpoint to find a pharmacy or provider near you
• call 0800 28 29 26 8:30am to 5:00pm, Monday to Friday (except public holidays). Calls are free and interpreters are available.
When you have your flu vaccine, it’s a great time to check you’re up to date with all your immunisations – including the latest Covid-19 vaccine and a whooping cough booster (available from age 65).
If you’re unsure which immunisations you need, speak with your healthcare provider or pharmacist.
Look after yourself and your whānau. Te Whatu Ora
TE KAUWHATA COLLEGE NEWS
Te Kauwhata College International Dance Showcase
In Week 8, our students took to the stage for a spectacular showcase, performing a diverse range of dance styles including K-Pop, kapa haka, Tahitian, hip hop, contemporary, lyrical jazz, and Cook Island dance.
A major highlight was the vibrant performance by our Filipino students, who shared their culture through an upbeat and infectious routine. Our haka group truly ‘took the roof off’ with their incredible energy, and our various dance troupes impressed the audience with both their technical talent and positive vibes.
It was a pleasure to welcome students from TKP as our audience, and we are already looking forward to hosting another community-wide show around Matariki.
A huge thank you goes out to our student Arts Leader, Oneli, and her dedicated committee. They have spent the last six weeks of their lunchtimes decorating the hall and running rehearsals to make this happen.
The Arts teachers are incredibly proud of all our aakonga for their hard work and creativity.
Te Kauwhata College Community Saves 108 Lives
Te Kauwhata College recently hosted the New Zealand Blood Service for another successful donation event. The day saw a fantastic turnout from students, staff, and the local public, resulting in the collection of 36 units of blood.
These donations are set to make a significant impact, with the potential to save up to 108 lives.
A special thank you goes out to all the donors who stepped up, as well as the students who generously assisted with refreshments throughout the day to ensure the event ran smoothly.
Life Uncomplicated:
Reflections on work, life, and the little things that make a difference
This column explores the small patterns that quietly shape our days – uncovering meaning in ordinary moments. It doesn’t claim to offer answers but hopes to bring a little perspective and calm along the way.
When Self-Interest Meets Generosity
Inthe course of my work, I come across many volunteers in different spaces, different communities and different causes, but often, the same quiet question sits underneath it all – what brings people to give the gift of their time?
And over the years, I’ve started to notice small patterns emerge. Some volunteers come with a very clear sense of what they want to get out of the process. They have a particular reason for stepping up, and when those conditions aren’t met, their involvement tends to be short-lived. It’s not that they don’t care but their willingness to adapt is limited.
In contrast to this, other volunteers give freely, say yes to almost everything, and step in wherever needed. There is something deeply admirable about that kind of generosity, but over time, it can become difficult to sustain. Energy runs low or other parts of life begin to pull them away and eventually, they too step back.
Interestingly, there is a third group that doesn’t stand out immediately. These are volunteers who are generous but not endlessly so. You might hear them say things like “I can help on Tuesdays but not weekends” or “I’m happy to take this on but I’ll need support with that part”.
And watching them over time, I began to notice something. It wasn’t that they cared more than others but at the same time, they weren’t trying to give everything either. They seemed to understand that if they were going to give their time and energy, it had to be done in a way that worked for them directly. And because of that approach, they could give effortlessly and with consistency.
A Thought to Carry With Us?
This made me reflect on how we often speak of selflessness as the ideal – as though the best way to give is to give without condition, without boundary and without any thought of self.
But does this “selflessness” truly sustain the work in the long term? Instead, might it be beneficial to accept that looking after our own capacity isn’t separate from helping others but part of it?
Because the work – whatever form it takes – often needs more than just moments of generosity. What it actually needs is continuity, which rarely comes from giving everything away.
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 to follow his latest musings.
Huntly Bowling Club Pairs Champs
Huntly Bowling Club held its Pairs Champs on Saturday 28th March in the fog. It was great to see so many teams entered in the big day for the club. The winning team was Rex Morland and Lawrence Putu and in second place was Carole Rodgers with Roy Crawford. Congratulations to all teams
Huntly Bowling Club Tournament Results
TheHuntly Bowling Club held its last tournament for the 2025 – 2026 season on Thursday 2nd April in fine conditions, with little wind.
The green played fast and well. We enjoyed the company of 9 visiting teams, Taupiri 2, Raglan 2, Morrinsville, Te Kauwhata, Morrinsville RSA, Beerescourt, Manurewa and 7local Huntly teams. The overall winning team on the day with 3 wins and 34 points was from Beerescourt, skipped by Carl Perryn, with Berryl Jamieson-Corbett and Robyn Sarbutt.
Second was a Raglan team skipped by Norm Burnand, with Malcolm Hunia and Ann Burnand, with 3 wins and 30 points. Third was a Morrinsville team with 2 1/2 wins and 44 points, skipped by Steve Mills with Roger Gray and Jim Hunt The first Huntly team home was skipped by Jenny Welch, with Phil Giles and Anne Beadle.
The tournament was sponsored by “BUILTSMART HUNTLY:.
That concludes our advertised programme for this year.
Te Kauwhata Bowling Club April News
Alovely Autumn Saturday greeted the family contingent for the annual Frank McRae Memorial Trophy event. Each year the group is expanding in numbers as they gather from different regions to celebrate their kaumatua, Frank McRae.
TKBC members combine with the McRae Whanau in mixed teams and the trophy this year was awarded to Linda W, Tony, Sophie and Stu.
HoT Shed Aparangi
The House of Treasures is pleased to open their furniture shop, following a years closure, and will be known as the H O t Shed.
The new premises are at the eastern end of the Te Kauwhata bowling club and is accessed from the carpark. Donations of used furniture can also be received.
PAIRS combinations were the last of this seasons Club Championships to be played. Graeme Calverley & Lyn Welch won the men’s pairs and Pat Hall & Katherine Pascoe won the women’s. They will play in the Bowls CountiesManukau Champion of Championships event later in April.
Katherine & Pat in front The difference between a win or loss can be very close
Linda, Secretary, tekauwhatabowls@gmail.com
To arrange delivering furniture or picking up purchases please ring The House of Treasures shop 0274696315 during opening hours.
To view the used furniture on sale please go to The House of Treasures Te Kauwhata facebook page.
The House Of Treasures is very appreciative of the community ‘s contributions, many who donate their time working at the shop and for the many donations received. All proceeds go to the Aparangi Retirement Village.
Part time cleaner wanted to clean the Motel 10-20 Hours per Week. Some weekend work required.
For apply please email papsamra@yahoo.com Cleaner Wanted
LEASE LAND WANTED North Waikato Any size considered Competitive rates Rod 0277141749 Wanted
A warm, clean and tidy 3 bedroom house with garage and carport. In walking distance to shopping centers and schools. Applicants need to be a professional working couple. Sorry no dogs & No smokers. Rent is $550 per week Available 27th April 2026. Phone 078288125, Please leave a message with your name and contact phone number
