Get your property seen by more buyers and achieve the result it deserves
$740 worth of bonus marketing
We’re boosting your exposure with to our complimentary $1700 standard marketing package!
Don’t miss out , book your appraisal today to get your property seen
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.
Our premium untreated dry pinewood shavings, chipper fines or woodchip offer superior comfort and cleanliness for your pets or livestock. Don’t wait until the last minute-purchase early and take advantage of our summer deal for bulk or bagged deliveries.
Enquire now at 07 888 1955 or order at orders@moorey.co.nz
Taking back our streets
The rural, unlit roads around Te Kauwhata, Rangiriri and Hampton Downs have long felt the impact of antisocial road behaviour, including late-night burnouts, illegal street racing, and damage to road infrastructure and personal property. These events aren’t just annoying for nearby residents, they put other road users, road workers and police at real risk.
Waikato Police have recently reported significant boy-racer activity in Hamilton and its surrounding industrial and rural fringes, including Horotiu and Huntly. Police describe these events as involving illegal street racing, burnouts, noise, intimidation of the public, and vehicle ramming incidents, with large-scale enforcement operations carried out in response.
Boy racer groups often move quickly between locations, attracting spectators and blocking roads, making them harder for police to shut down. Some events have resulted in injuries to members of the public and police officers.
To respond to this rise in dangerous road gatherings, our Government has introduced the Antisocial Road Use Legislation Amendment Bill, a wide-reaching set of changes designed to restore calm and safety to our streets.
The Justice Select Committee, which I chair, presented its report on the Bill to Parliament on 15 December, and the Bill is now due to have its second reading in the House. Its goal is simple: give police stronger tools and ensure that those who choose to endanger others face meaningful consequences.
The Bill introduces a firm mix of harsher penalties, new offences and expanded police powers, aimed primarily at the most disruptive behaviours.
One of the strongest deterrents is the new presumption that courts must order a vehicle to be forfeited – and in some cases destroyed – when someone is convicted of serious antisocial road offences. These include illegal street racing, sustained loss of traction (burnouts), fleeing police, and participating in frightening or intimidating convoys.
As police have repeatedly said, many offenders care more about their car than a fine. Losing their vehicle altogether is expected to be a powerful deterrent.
Police will also gain clearer powers to shut down illegal vehicle gatherings by closing roads or public areas immediately. Anyone who refuses to leave can face a $1,000 infringement notice. Police can also impound vehicles for 28 days if the registered owner refuses to identify the driver involved in an offence – a change designed to prevent offenders hiding behind a silent vehicle owner.
The Bill also adds a specific offence targeting frightening or intimidating convoys, and fines for excessive vehicle noise, including those from modified exhausts or the increasingly common ‘siren battles’, will also rise sharply.
Importantly, the Bill is aimed at truly dangerous behaviour, not ordinary car enthusiasts who gather safely and respectfully. It sends a clear message to those who choose to drive dangerously: if you put others at risk on our roads, be prepared to face the consequences.
For many communities, especially families and older residents, these reforms signal a return to quieter nights, safer roads, and streets where people feel comfortable walking the dog or driving home late.
Tim’s News
Forfamilies across New Zealand, it’s vital that our infrastructure is fit-for-purpose. The recent storm damage destroying housing, roads, bridges, and businesses was devastating. Natural disasters are only one part of the challenge of building and maintaining infrastructure.
Demand has outpaced the infrastructure we have across multiple areas including transportation networks, energy supply, healthcare facilities, water management, and natural disaster resilience. This complex range of issues needs a longterm view, significant investment, and a strategic approach. I’m proud to be part of the Government leading the vision to solve this complicated need.
As a central part of our “Going for Growth” agenda, we campaigned to develop and strengthen our country’s infrastructure, to fix the basics, and build a better future for Kiwis. After becoming the Government in late 2023, we ensured the NZ Infrastructure Commission began work on a National Infrastructure Plan. Last week’s release of this Plan, incorporating feedback from the infrastructure sector and wider public, outlines delivery of the comprehensive 30-year view, our roadmap to improve the way we will plan, fund, deliver, and maintain essential infrastructure. Importantly, this has been a bipartisan opportunity, with all Parties in Government invited to be briefed on the Plan’s development. We understand Kiwis welcome the surety of knowing that an independent view of our infrastructure needs and our assets, and assessment of the plan forward, has buy-in from across the political spectrum. We’re holding a special debate in Parliament to ensure all Parties’ views are heard as we develop our formal response to the Plan’s recommendations (due midyear). This strategic approach ensures we all work together on the infrastructure systems, facilities, and networks we need as a nation, long term, rather than at risk of change following an election, with much needed projects cancelled – such as in 2018 under Labour when the Cambridge to Piarere section of the Waikato Expressway was cancelled, now commencing construction this year under our Government’s leadership. Working together to plan and invest in the infrastructure we need as a country is essential. Our Government is providing record investment in the healthcare required for our aging population. Our Local Water Done Well reforms are prioritising strong economic oversight in our delivery of water management. Our transition to the Electronic Road User Charges across the transport fleet ensures a fairer system for all road users. Prioritising land transport projects, including extending the Waikato Expressway and other Roads Of National Significance (RONS), ensures our roading network provides the arterial links needed by both families and commercial users. Our nearly $200 million investment in the Regional Infrastructure FUND (RIF) enables 74 flood resilience projects across the country. Our legislation changes to replace the Resource Management Act brings a more durable and stable framework, prioritising planning and national standards. We’re leading the way, focused on fixing the basics, building the resilient infrastructure networks Kiwis need and going for growth. Tim van de Molen – MP for Waikato.
On the cover: The Te Kauwhata Volunteer Fire Brigade crew. (Back row) Mike Simpson, Katie Prattley, Pete Boyce, Mike McDonald, Ashley Hansen, Kevin Hair, Ryan Fraser, Jared Fiske. (Front row) Elliott Drummond, Glen Whitaker, Josh Vanednbroek, Harriet Rowese, Olivia Brown. Full story on page 3.
Authorised by Andrew Bayly, Parliament
TK Firefighters Take on Taupo Half Ironman Challenge
You might have seen our Te Kauwhata volunteer firefighters running or cycling around town lately, or crushing laps in the local pool in preparation for the Taupo half-Ironman challenge on Saturday March 7.
It’s all part of the training for the mixed team of 13 of Te Kauwhata’s ‘vollies’ who will be tackling a demanding 1.9 km swim, 90 km bike and 21.1 km run.
But what makes their entry particularly impressive is that this challenge was set by Chief Fire Officer, Glen Whitaker (Mush), whose leadership and commitment to readiness has inspired the entire team to take part, and the challenge was taken up with enthusiasm.
Mush encouraged his firefighters to embrace the event not only as a personal challenge but also as a way to ensure they maintain the level of fitness required for their role.
“Volunteer firefighters often face physically intense and unpredictable situations and endurance, strength, and resilience are essential parts of the job. Participating in a major endurance race like the Taupō Half Ironman reflects our brigade’s dedication to staying prepared and capable of responding whenever the sirens sound,” says CFO Mush Whitaker..
Thanks TK, for your support Brigade members have a deep appreciation for the support they’ve received
from their community throughout their training. “In a rural town, the relationship between volunteers and the people they serve is especially strong, and the encouragement we’ve been shown has played an important role in keeping morale high, “says Mush.
A particularly meaningful contribution has come from Te Kauwhata Fitness Centre, which generously provided free access to its training facilities for the volunteer firefighters’ team.
This support allowed the team to train consistently as they prepare for the demanding swim, bike, and run sections of the event. Mush says their generosity highlights the kind of community spirit that strengthens rural towns.
The effort by the fire brigade also shines a light on the many other volunteers who work tirelessly across our community; those involved in schools, sports clubs, rural support groups, emergency services, fundraising initiatives, and countless behindthescenes roles. These individuals quietly give their time and energy, helping maintain the fabric of local life without expecting anything in return.
As race day approaches, our firefighters are set not only to test their physical limits but also to represent the wider spirit of service that defines our community. Their participation in the Taupō Half Ironman stands as a testament to their dedication, teamwork, and readiness to serve - both in uniform and beyond it.
Many farmers will know Tony and how he helps farms become more sustainable and profitable using Fertco's industry leading Controlled Release fertiliser products
Products like Dicalcic Phosphate and N-Smart are less prone to nutrient losses and are plant-available longer, meaning you grow more with less inputs
Less in, more out = more profit.
At Fertco we base our personalised fert programme on testing, so call Tony, book a test or two, and maybe twist his arm for one to be free!
Waikato District Council –Community Boards Update
All community boards have now had their first meeting for 2026. In Huntly, Council is working through a proposal to return the unused land beside Davies Park to Waikato Rugby Football League.
Most feedback supports this move, which may enable future development to support rugby league and the wider community.
Upcoming Meetings
1. Tuakau Community Board
meets Monday, 17 March 2026
2. Raglan Community Board
meets Wednesday, 18 March 2026
3. Ngaaruawaahia Community Board meets Tuesday, 24 March 2026
4. Rural–Port Waikato Community Board meets Thursday, 26 March 2026
5. Taupiri Community Board meets Monday, 30 March 2026
6. Huntly Community Board meets Tuesday, 31 March 2026
PEARL Movements is a music-based dance programme designed especially for older adults. The 45 minute community sessions support strength and balance by weaving evidence-informed falls prevention principles into enjoyable, expressive movement to music. Participants can choose to move seated or standing and are encouraged to go at their own pace. The focus is on feeling confident, steady and uplifted while enjoying moving together in a supportive community setting.
move at home. Members are accessing the programme not only across New Zealand but around the world, and one participant even took PEARL with her on holiday in her motorhome so she could continue her routine while away.
The morning at Apārangi Village will begin with a short introduction by Francine, followed by a gentle taster session led by her. There will be time afterwards for a cuppa and conversation.
Residents, care staff and members of the wider community are warmly invited to attend. We look forward to sharing this fun, safe and engaging movement experience with you.
Francine & Jo
From TK Community Garden: Kamokamo
Kamokamo is a popular and treasured vegetable, especially in rural areas of Aotearoa. A type of squash, this vegetable arrived in the country with settlers from Europe in the late 1800s.
Today its popularity is due to both its tastiness and the ease by which it is grown. The plant likes sun and quickly grows vines which spread out across the ground and produce the flowers which develop into the kamokamo that we eat.
Kamokamo comes in all shapes and sizes. It grows rapidly and develops a thick skin allowing it to be stored for eating throughout the year.
Kamokamo is often eaten young and tender after being cut up and gently fried,
steamed or boiled. As a mature vegetable it is delicious cut up and placed on top of the boil up, seasoned with salt, pepper and butter, roasted in a pan with meat and vegetables, or mashed for baby.
Kamokamo is easy to cultivate so make note and try growing your own next summer. If you have a sunny area around your house, put some plants in and let them ramble over the lawn. That way you can save on lawn mowing over summer and collect a pile of free kai to eat through the year.
Kamokamo is just one of many vegetables grown for the community at the Te Kauwhata Community Gardens. It is harvested by our volunteer team and shared with the community via the paataka kai for the community to enjoy.
TK Tavern
Seeks Two More Trustees
At last year’s local body elections, nominations for election to the Te Kauwhata Tavern Trust were requested.
However, only four people were nominated, leaving a shortfall of the six needed to provide governance advice to the tavern operations.
Notice was given of a by-election date of March 3, but the Trust has applied for exemption from this, instead asking for the power to co-opt the two additional members.
Interim chair, Scott Bovaird says the Trust took this step to avoid the costs of a by-election (around $20,000) which would come from the Trust’s funds.
At the time of going to print, it is not confirmed whether the request will be granted or not; although information indicates it is being looked at favourably at central government level.
If this is the case, then the Trust will appoint new trustees from those who attended their AGM and indicated their interest. Alternatively, if a by-election is to be held, then this will be advertised by the Trust as well as the Waikato District Council, which administers all local elections in the district.
Scott Bovaird says funding from the gaming machines within the Tavern is made available to the wider Te Kauwhata community via grants. Over $80,000 was allocated during 2025 to organisations as diverse as the rugby and squash clubs, golf club and A&P show, Waiterimu Hall, Te Kura oi Rangiriri and Waiterimu hall.
Trustees elected in local elections in 2025 were Scott Bovaird, Ross Caird, Mohan Singh and Casey Van Der Star.
Waikato District Council takes a step forward in how it listens to its communities
Waikato District Council is inviting residents to take a more direct role in shaping the future of the district with the launch of a new Community Voice Panel.
The panel is made up of residents who will take part in short, online surveys throughout the year. Feedback will help inform Council decisions and ensure local views are reflected in planning, services, and priorities.
Mayor Aksel Bech says the Community Voice Panel is about making community input easier, more inclusive, more practical, and built in at the start of Council’s processes so it can genuinely help shape the decisions.
“We know traditional consultation at the end of a process doesn’t work for everyone. This panel removes some of those barriers and gives people a straightforward way to have their say, without needing to attend meetings or work through long documents,” said Mayor Aksel.
“It’s part of giving effect to community empowerment through voice, choice and control, which guides this new term of Council. It’s about
listening earlier, more often, and to a broader range of people, so Council decisions are grounded in what matters most to our communities.”
Panel members will receive a small number of surveys each year, designed to be quick and easy to complete. Responses will be used alongside other engagement and data to guide Council decision-making.
Mayor Aksel says building a panel that reflects the diversity of Waikato district is a key priority.
“We want to hear from people of different ages, backgrounds, and
locations across the district, especially those who don’t usually engage with Council,” said Mayor Aksel.
“If you live in Waikato district and you care about where it’s heading, this is a simple way to contribute. It’s free to join, takes only a few minutes to sign up, and your input will help shape real decisions.”
Anyone aged 16 and over who lives in Waikato district is encouraged to join the Community Voice Panel.
More information and the sign-up form are available at waikatodistrict. govt.nz/communityvoicepanel
Raahui Pookeka Arts Festival Returns to Huntly with Interactive Fun for All Ages
The much-anticipated Raahui Pookeka Arts Festival returns in 2026, bringing a vibrant celebration of creativity, connection and community to Huntly Primary School field from 10am to 2pm.
This free, family-friendly event promises a dynamic day filled with interactive art experiences, live entertainment, food vendors, craft stalls and activities designed for all generations.
Festival-goers can look forward to special character appearances throughout the day. Bluey and Emma Wiggle will be roaming the field from 10am to 12pm, meeting tamariki and whānau, followed by Spiderman and Runi from K-Pop Demon Hunters from 12pm to 2pm, ready to delight young heroes and fans alike.
Adding to the excitement, talented circus performers will roam the festival grounds showcasing their unique skills. At midday, they will host a giant bubble station where families can step in, try
circus props and immerse themselves in hands-on fun.
Attendees can also explore the emerging art form of virtual reality, stepping into a new world of creativity and digital expression.
The festival will feature free craft activities, a lively Music Zone, interactive games in the Play Zone, and complimentary face painting, balloon twisting and a photobooth. Dedicated spaces ensure everyone feels welcome, including a Pepi Zone for māmā and pēpi to relax and connect, and a 60+ Kaumātua Zone offering a comfortable place to sit back and enjoy the festivities.
Organisers say the festival is about more than just art — it is about bringing the community together, celebrating local creativity, and creating joyful shared experiences.
The Raahui Pookeka Arts Festival is free to attend and open to everyone. Bring the whānau, invite your friends, and enjoy a day of creativity in the heart of Huntly.
Volunteers in the Spotlight at the Museum
Every month Te Whare Taonga O Raahui Pookeka Huntly Museum is putting one of their amazing volunteers under the spotlight.
They are energetic, enthusiastic community minded individuals who totally support Raahui Pookeeka Huntly.
February’s volunteer of the month is Denise Lamb! We have to start here – Denise has been the chair of the museum for 4 years and has packed so much into that time.
Many of you will know Denise – her day job is in the Huntly Library she loves to read books to our tamariki at the childcare centres at Raahui Pookeka and provide library material to our primary schools.
Denise’s happy place is her beautiful garden she is part of the Huntly Garden Circle and she grows gorgeous flowers which she shares with so many people.
Denise has been a driving force of the new museum she is a natural community collaborator who pulls together community leadership. She is so supportive of museum staff empowering them to grow small ideas into big ones. Even though Denise works full time and has a busy personal life she has put in 3 times as many hours as any other volunteer over the last 3 years. Her commitment has been absolute. Thank you Denise!!
Denise is a high energy positive beacon for Raahui Pookeka who has enabled the community collaboration to create our Te
Whare Taonga / Museum - a wonderful long lasting asset for the region.
The museum can not function without volunteers they provide assistance at the front desk, ideas, energy, governance and reliability. If YOU are interested looking after the front desk for 4 hours a fortnight -email us on admin@huntlymuseum.co.nz or pop in and see us Wed -Sat 10am-4pm 2a Glasgow St.
Huntly Museum: What’s the Story of Your Home?
Come and learn how to research your home, the resources to seek, the people to ask, and be surprised by the interesting turns a simple house or cottage can pose.
Te Whare Taonga o Raahui Pookeka Huntly Museum is hosting a FREE talk Sat 28th Feb @ 4pm in the Museum at 2a Glasgow St.
No booking required. Talk will be 40 mins long and find out research tips from expert Laura Kellaway.
Laura Kellaway is the Heritage Advisor at Waikato District Council , a Conservation Architect and Historian. Born in the Waikato she is passionate about the Waikato’s cultural heritage and stories.
Laura is one of New Zealand’s conservation architects, working both privately and in government agencies.
You will also learn about the museums holdings and information files. Heritage booklets will be on sale
Sat 28 Feb, 4pm
Te Whare Taonga o Raahui Pookeka Huntly Museum
Station Building
2 a Glasgow St, Huntly
Big delivery for Huntly Power Station battery
How many trucks does it take to deliver a 172 tonne transformer? Three when you’re taking it over the Bombay Hills, pushing and pulling a 70m-long trailer.
The transformer was destined for Huntly Power Station as part of Genesis’ Energy’s $135m grid-scale battery installation. Manufactured in Indonesia, it had to be moved from the Port of Auckland to the Huntly site between midnight and 6am to minimise traffic disruption.
The journey included easing over the Tainui Bridge at Huntly, which was built to take heavy loads.
Three pilot vehicles accompanied the 17axle trailer with a truck at each end. A third truck joined the front vehicle to help haul the transformer up the Bombay Hills, and manage its descent.
On arrival at Huntly Power Station, the transformer was lifted off the trailer by a crane and deposited near the 100 MW battery installation under construction. The transformer will step up the battery’s voltage from 33 kV to 220 kV to allow the battery to connect to the national grid.
The battery will be capable of storing 200 MWh of electricity, enough to power around 60,000 households for two hours. It will release energy at times of peak demand, such as cold winter mornings and evenings, and is due to start operating later this year.
Genesis’ Chief Operating Officer Tracey Hickman said the safe delivery of the transformer was a critical step in the first stage of a project that would see Genesis build a
battery system at Huntly of up to 400 MW by FY35, in line with Genesis’ Gen35 strategy.
“Huntly Power Station is evolving as it plays a critical role in backing up the electricity system through the renewable transition, providing flexible power when hydro lakes are low, the sun doesn’t shine and the wind doesn’t blow,” said Hickman.
“As New Zealand’s electricity supply becomes more renewable and subject to weather, this battery will help smooth out fluctuations in supply, ensuring supply remains reliable and secure.”
Curtain Bank Encourages
Whaanau to Get Winter‑Ready
I
Email tewhareawhi@huntly.co.nz
visit our website or CALL 07 8280066
Te Whare Awhi - 14 Fraser Park Huntly Monday to Friday 9am -3pm
The Curtain Bank supports households across Huntly and surrounding areas by providing pre-loved, lined curtains that help keep homes warmer, drier, and healthier. With many families facing rising power costs and older homes losing heat quickly, curtains can make a noticeable
“Warm homes support healthy whanau,” says the team at Te Whare Awhi. “Curtains are a simple, effective way to keep the warmth in and the damp out, especially during the
To make the process easier, the Curtain Bank now uses an online Google Form where whanau can request the curtain sizes they need. This helps the team prepare orders more efficiently and ensures families receive the right fit for their windows. Those without internet access are welcome to pop into Te Whare Awhi for support with filling out the
Donations of clean, good-condition mould free curtains especially wider or longer sets are also welcomed. These can be dropped off at Te Whare Awhi during opening hours
“This mahi is about manaakitanga and looking after each other,” the team says. “When our homes are warm,people
Whanau wanting to request curtains, donate, or offer koha can visit Te Whare Awhi or complete the online form.
The Curtain Bank is also putting out a call for community members who can volunteer some time to sew curtains. Even a small contribution — repairing hems, adding linings, or resizing donated curtains — helps ensure more whanau receive warm, well‑fitted curtains for winter
While the service is free, koha is appreciated to help keep the Curtain Bank running and to support the ongoing mahi for the community. 07 8280066 tewhareawhi@
Issue 31 of Rex Hohaia History of Rugby League: The Waikato Country Fare Cougars
The early rounds of the 1994 Lion Red Cup proved highly resourceful for the Waikato Country Fare Cougars — played eight, won eight.
The Round 1 encounter was originally scheduled for Nelson Park in Hastings but had to be relocated after the venue was “double-booked”, with Davies Park stepping in to accommodate the match.
Trust Bank Park in Hamilton was hired for the Round 4 clash on Sunday, 10 April — a picturesque oval-shaped venue designed specifically for international cricket in the heart of the city. The Waitakere Raiders rode into town with something of a “big brother” attitude, as teams north of the Bombays were inclined to carry. The 1pm kick-off was timed for television.
A very young Stuart “BamBam” Heslop made his first start that day while still eligible for Taniwharau Under-17s, and Darryl Beazley made his first appearance in a Cougars jersey off the bench after being released from a train-and-trial contract with the Manly Sea Eagles.
Training sessions at the newly acquired Hopuhopu Army Camp were also proving “handy” for players, and “late to training” quickly became a lame excuse for those with slack attitudes. The Tainui Trust Board was about to have the venue returned as part of the raupatu settlement. At the time, I was working for Rangi Moana Builders, which held the contract to convert former Warrant Officers’ and Sergeants’ mess buildings into offices, as well as refurbishing the ex Army camp.
New Zealand Rugby League was also looking to stage age-grade tournaments at this ideal venue, which boasted six playing fields, barracks, ablution blocks, a large dining hall, parade grounds and lecture rooms.
Spectator involvement proved lukewarm for some franchises, but the Cougars were well supported, despite concerns from some supporters about the loss of players from local clubs. In the early 1990s, professionalism was still a novelty, and the paying public largely preferred the rival code.
A classic example came when Cougars directors moved home games from Davies Park to Hamilton to tap into a larger population base. One Saturday saw 20,000 spectators at Rugby Park to watch Waikato rugby take on Auckland (“the Jafas”), but the following day only around 2,500 attended the televised Cougars v Waitakere Raiders game at Trust Bank Park.
In reality, Trust Bank Park was never going to be a true home for the Cougars. The venue rarely rolled out the welcome mat. One match was even cancelled at short notice because “the pitch was being repaired”. Waikato Times reporter Terry Power wrote on 24 May 1994 that TBP chairman Ash Taylor criticised Cougar media statements, saying: “We’re most amused to see them talking in the paper about playing at TBP when they haven’t even discussed it with us.”
Lion Breweries ran a promotion in which anyone purchasing a slab of cans received a free match ticket printed on the box — little wonder the competition struggled financially in its first year.
Match-day entertainment was provided at every venue, complete with the bells and whistles that are now considered standard. At Trust Bank Park, entertainment included a synchronised lawn-mowing display, cheerleaders and food stalls, with every attendee under 15 receiving a free packet of Bluebird chips or a can of Pepsi Max at the gate. Hamilton bands Blackjack and Solitaire performed post-match, and entertainer Frankie Stevens appeared at a Wellington Dukes game at the Basin Reserve.
A travelling tackling machine, fitted with safety pads and sponsor prizes, toured league clubs nationwide for promotional events and even appeared at Davies Park. One standout supporter was Glen Afton resident Janette Green, who dressed in a full Cougars outfit displaying “paw power”. A hit with children, she also composed a team song titled Win Away.
The Cougars’ Anzac Day Round 6 clash against the Bay of Plenty Stags marked a return to Davies Park in Huntly. Stags coach Neil Joyce was making headlines with his desire to recruit firebrand Mark Geyer, who was destined to join the new Winfield Cup team, the Western Reds, in 1995. Joyce had previously worked closely with Geyer at the Canberra Raiders and was keen to secure him on a one-year contract. Cougars coach Joe Gwynne, however, insisted that a New Zealand competition did not need Geyer’s fiery style.
The match produced the competition’s first penalty try in a 46–10 Cougars victory. Singing returned to the grandstand, with conductor Janet Haggie leading supporters as the points mounted.
Off the field, the demands on players were becoming increasingly apparent. Sponsor appearances and promotional events piled up alongside day jobs. Activities included a combined training session and school muster with Bill Hargreaves in Thames, a “Meet the Cougars” fundraiser at Tūrangawaewae Marae, a barbecue on Huntly’s Main Street with local radio host Greg Haycock, promotions at Cambridge and Henderson shopping malls for major sponsor Country Fare Bakeries, and a tackle-machine contest at the Taniwharau Club.
Eventually, the inevitable happened — focus began to drift from the priority of playing football.
By Round 9, the Cougars’ eight-game winning streak came to an end with a 24–9 loss to the North Harbour Sea Eagles. Their giant forward pack rolled through Davies Park like a runaway truck. Injuries were
mounting, forcing selectors to draw players from the local WRL Premier competition — a welcome opportunity for those players but one that unsettled some club supporters and coaches.
The unpredictable nature of the competition was highlighted again in Round 14 at Pukekura Park in New Plymouth, where the Taranaki Rockets edged the Cougars 26–24 after trailing 12–8 at halftime.
Away trips, however, remained a highlight, strengthening bonds within the squad. The Devon Hotel on Devon Street — reputedly the longest main street in New Zealand — provided an ideal base, and travelling supporters were often present to sing their hearts out.
As the inaugural Lion Red Cup season entered the business end, the Cougars had secured second place on the ladder, guaranteeing them two lives in the playoffs.
To be continued…
Researched by Rex Hohaia - 5 November 2025
PRICE COMPARISON
Life Uncomplicated:
Reflections on work, life, and the little things that make a difference
This column explores the quiet patterns that shape our days – unpacking ordinary moments to find shared meaning. It doesn’t claim to offer answers but hopes to offer perspective and perhaps a little calm along the way.
The Honk Behind Me
It was an ordinary weekday morning. The kids were in the back seat, half awake as we made the familiar drive to Horotiu School. At one intersection, I slowed to turn right as I normally do. There was oncoming traffic – steady enough to make the decision simple – so I waited.
And then came the honk. It was sharp and close behind me. Not loud enough to startle but enough to be felt. For a moment, I wondered if I had missed something or hesitated longer than I should have? Was there space I hadn’t seen?
But the road ahead was unchanged. The cars were still coming. The pause had been necessary. I completed the turn when it was safe, and we carried on.
However, the moment stayed with me longer than it should have. There was this quiet instinct to explain myself even though there was no one to explain it to. A subtle discomfort in knowing that, in someone else’s view, I had done something wrong.
It made me realise how often that feeling appears in small ways – a look from someone that seems to carry meaning or a moment where we’ve been misunderstood. And with it, the quiet urge to correct it.
But as the road unfolded ahead of us, I began to see that nothing needed correcting. The turn had been made safely and the day was still moving forward. Whatever had lived in that honk belonged to someone else’s moment, not mine.
A Thought to Carry With Us?
And perhaps that is something we come to learn slowly. That not every misunderstanding needs to be untangled. Not every moment needs to be carried with us beyond where it occurred. Sometimes, the kindest thing we can do for ourselves is to let the moment end where it happened.
The road, after all, is still ahead and there is something quietly freeing in continuing toward it without looking back.
Huntly Garden Circle Report Feb
Our first meeting of 2026 was full of energy, as members enjoyed catching up with each other’s news.
The sales table was very generous, helping to keep our financial report healthy, and the competition tables were groaning with an abundance of blooms, vegetables, fruit and preserves. Twenty-nine members attended the meeting, with 32 competition entries received.
Feedback from our Christmas luncheon at the Hamilton Workingmen’s Club and our Christmas meeting was very positive. Members also enjoyed visiting three gardens in the Ngāruawāhia and Taupiri area.
Tips on how to best condition picked flowers were discussed.
Ngāire shared the marvels of her olla pots — ancient unglazed terracotta vessels buried in the soil to provide highly efficient, slow release, self watering irrigation. She first saw these many years ago in Italy and has since installed them in her own garden with brilliant effect. Her tomatoes are producing abundantly, are very healthy, and there are no weeds. This irrigation method is best suited to fibrous rooted plants such as tomatoes.
Denise has established a dahlia garden with nine beds of stunning dahlias and other cut flowers, some of which are supplied to the Main Street Café.
Green stink bugs are again a problem at this time of year; squashing them helps deter other beetles.
Competition Results
Bloom: 1st Liz, 2nd Jude, 3rd Pat
Vegetables: 1st Pat, 2nd Trish, 3rd Sherryl
Fruit: 1st Liz, 2nd Jude, 3rd Denise
Preserves: 1st Vivian, 2nd Vivian, 3rd Liz
Following the meeting, members visited two beautiful rural gardens — those of Kate Thomas, who also runs an Airbnb, and Chrissy Richards, one of our members. Both properties feature expansive views and restful, large gardens.
Our next meeting will be held on 5 March at 10am at the RSA. After the meeting, we will visit three gardens in Huntly: Colleen’s, Liz’s, and one other.
New members and visitors are most welcome. For enquiries, please phone Liz Johnson on 022 074 1223.
Te Kauwhata Bowling Club News
For the first time in many years, Te Kauwhata Bowling Club hosted the Triangular Tournament with Huntly and Taupiri Bowling Clubs.
This annual event brings together the three clubs, which share a long-standing camaraderie. On this occasion, Te Kauwhata emerged as the winning team.
Te Kauwhata is the southernmost club in the Bowls Counties Manukau region, but it often combines with Huntly and Taupiri — both in the Waikato Bowls region — for events such as this.
24‑Hour Community Prayer
Vigil at St Andrew’s
F rom 7pm on Friday 6 March until 7pm on Saturday 7 March 2026, St Andrew’s Presbyterian Church will host a 24-hour Prayer Vigil, and members of the wider community are warmly invited to take part.
A prayer vigil is simply a dedicated time set aside for quiet reflection and prayer. In the midst of busy lives, it offers an opportunity to step away from daily pressures and distractions and spend time in stillness, hope and contemplation.
Many people find that setting aside uninterrupted time like this is both peaceful and deeply refreshing. It can bring clarity of thought, renewed hope, and a sense of perspective about the challenges we face. Whether someone comes with specific concerns on their heart or simply a desire for quiet space, the experience of pausing, reflecting and praying can be calming, strengthening and uplifting.
The vigil will begin at 7pm on Friday evening with a short time of shared praise and worship, before continuing through the night and into Saturday evening. During the daytime hours, the church will be open for anyone to come in for a few minutes or a longer period. Visitors are welcome to sit quietly, reflect, pray, or simply enjoy a peaceful space. For those wishing to attend overnight, please make contact beforehand, as the doors will be locked for security. Prayer will continue throughout the full 24 hours.
Prayer requests for individuals, families, our town and our nation are welcome. Requests can be emailed to 17statk@gmail.com and may be shared with or without names. Each request will be held in prayer throughout the vigil by those taking part.
Whether you are a regular church attendee or simply someone seeking a quiet place to reflect, you are warmly invited to come along.
Everyone is welcome.
Raffle Winners
Gloria, Peggy, Liz, Jude, Colleen and Denise
Notice of herbicide spraying
Waikato Regional Council advises that under Resource Consent 124871 spraying of pest plants growing in aquatic and semi-aquatic locations will continue 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): alligator weed, Manchurian wild rice, sagittaria, Senegal tea, spartina and yellow flag iris. Herbicides to be used are haloxyfop, imazapyr, metsulfuron-methyl and triclopyr. Application method is location dependent and may be by helicopter, gun and hose, mistblower or knapsack.
Operational areas are spread throughout the region and include (but are not limited to):
• Lakes Whangape and Waikare
• Te Otamanui Lagoon
• Waihou, Piako and Ohinemuri rivers
• Waikato River (from Horotiu to Port Waikato)
• Whangamarino and Maramarua rivers
• numerous smaller urban and rural sites.
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 visit www.waikatoregion.govt.nz/aquaticspraying or call Waikato Regional Council’s biosecurity pest plants team on 0800 800 401.
Occupiers who have already requested to be notified will be contacted prior to spraying.
CDA McLay Chief Executive
www.waikatoregion.govt.nz
Huntly Fire Station call outs
04/02 20:27 Hay barn fire, State Hiway 22, Pepepe Valley.
05/02 15:57 Spot fires out of control, State Hiway 22, Pepepe Valley.
05/02 21:11 Car fire, Painting bridge Rd, Huntly.
06/02 15:02 Medical call, cardiac arrest, Webb St, Huntly.
07/02 16:23 Meterbox smoking, Te Akau Rd, Te Akau
07/02 22:08 Motor vehicle crash, Whangamarino Rd, Te Kauwhata.
08/02 23:22 Smoke in the vicinity, Bailey St, Huntly.
11/02 18:43 Motorcycle on fire, Gordonton Rd, Taupiri.
12/02 11:17 Fire alarm activation, Olds,Rd, Taupiri.
12/02 12:38 Fire alarm activation, Olds Rd, Taupiri.
12/02 23:02 Motor vehicle crash car into ditch, Tahuna Rd, Waiterimu.
13/02 05:36 Medical call, cardiac arrest, Russell Rd, Huntly.
15/02 17:59 Scrub fire, Waikato expressway centre medium, Rangiriri.
17/02 20:12 Medical call, unconscious patient, Harris St, Huntly.
18/02 13:38 Fire alarm activation, McVie Rd, Huntly. 18/02 20:31 Bonfire in the vicinity, Orini Rd, Taupiri.
Te Kauwhata Rugby Sports Club Special General Meeting (SGM).
All members are invited to attend for the purpose to vote on adopting the new Constitution.
Monday 2nd March 2026, 7:30pm at the clubrooms, Mahi Road, Te Kauwhata.
For more information Contact: tkrugbyclub@gmail.com or 0211628864
